Senior running back Jaydn Ott struggles to fit in OU offense | Sports

The recent start of the 2025 college football season has brought a mix of optimism and concern for the University of Oklahoma (OU) football program. While the defense has shown remarkable prowess, ranking fourth nationally in scoring defense with just one touchdown allowed in three games, the offensive side of the ball tells a different story, particularly regarding senior running back Jaydn Ott.

### Keyword: Jaydn Ott

Jaydn Ott came to OU with high expectations, especially after a stellar 2023 season in which he was named a first-team All-Pac 12 selection, racking up an impressive 1,305 rushing yards. However, despite these credentials, the current season marks a struggle for Ott to find his place within the OU offense. Over three games, he has only managed to gain 17 yards on nine carries, raising questions about his role and fit within the system.

Head coach Brent Venables addressed the coaching staff’s concern, stating, “You wish he was further along in every way. Whatever opportunities you have, you get in there, and you’re ready. … Everything adds up, everything matters. So we’d love to get him going.” This statement reflects the urgency for Ott to not only integrate himself into the game plan but also to build chemistry with his teammates, especially with his fellow running backs.

During a recent game against Temple, Ott’s playing time was noticeably limited. In fact, he was the last running back to receive a carry, entering the game in the fourth quarter after Jovantae Barnes, Tory Blaylock, and Xavier Robinson had already made their appearances. This situation highlights the current hierarchy among the running backs and raises concerns about Ott’s ability to assert himself.

Quarterback John Mateer also weighed in on Ott’s adjustment process, emphasizing the importance of building chemistry among the players. “He hasn’t built a relationship with all of us,” Mateer noted. “Not that he’s done a bad job, but it takes time. We’ve all been there for him.” This quote underscores a crucial aspect of team dynamics—the necessity for players to forge connections and trust on the field.

### Challenges and Future Outlook

Ott’s struggles come on the heels of a frustrating 2024 season plagued by injuries. Despite these setbacks, his commitment to improving has not gone unnoticed. According to Barnes, who also plays a crucial role in the running back room, Ott proved his dedication over the summer. “Summer was a good time for him; he worked every day and never complained,” Barnes remarked. This resilience is crucial not only for Ott’s mental state but also for the psychology of the entire running back room.

As a leader, Ott has the potential to guide younger players. “Someone who’s (a preseason) All-American and rushed for 1,300 yards… any weak areas I have, he’s letting me know I can work on that or tweak it a little bit,” Barnes stated, highlighting Ott’s role as a mentor. This ethos of collaboration and learning is essential for developing a cohesive unit that can perform effectively during games.

In the eyes of offensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle, there is still hope for Ott to carve out a meaningful role in the offensive scheme. “He’s been having great weeks of practice,” Arbuckle expressed confidently. The optimist in Arbuckle suggests that the coaching staff continues to value Ott’s experience and capabilities, believing that eventually, he will find his rhythm in the offense.

### The Bigger Picture

Despite the struggles of Jaydn Ott, it is important to note that the OU offense is not performing poorly across the board. The Sooner’s offensive motor is currently being driven by the strong performances of Mateer, who ranks first in Fox Sports’ Heisman Trophy odds, indicating the team has other standout players who are stepping up. However, the inability to integrate Ott more fully into the offense raises questions about the long-term viability of relying solely on a few key players.

As the season progresses, the coaching staff will need to find creative ways to leverage Ott’s talents while also developing the other running backs. Relying too heavily on a small group can create vulnerabilities, especially if injuries or performance dips occur.

### Conclusion

In summary, while OU’s defensive unit has shown strong early-season performance, the struggles of senior running back Jaydn Ott present an area of concern. Ott’s lack of touches and effective performance could complicate the offensive game plan as the season unfolds. The challenges he faces are not unique, but they underscore the broader narrative of teamwork, resilience, and leadership that defines the game of football.

Coaches, teammates, and fans all await Ott’s breakthrough moment, hoping that his hard work and commitment will soon translate into on-field success. With the right mindset and continued effort, there’s every reason to believe that Jaydn Ott can indeed make the adjustments necessary to thrive in the OU offense.

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