Oklahoma might see two key wide receivers return for their 97th all-time meeting with Missouri, but they could be missing a top running back. The initial SEC Availability Report this week presented a mixed picture for the Sooners.
Jalil Farooq, who injured his foot on the opening drive of the 2024 season, is listed as questionable to return against Missouri. Last season, Farooq recorded 694 receiving yards on 45 catches with two touchdowns, ranking third on the team.
Another potential boost for Oklahoma’s offense is the possible return of Deion Burks. The Purdue transfer, sidelined since a Week 4 game against Tennessee due to a “soft tissue injury,” is also questionable for Saturday. Despite his absence, Burks remains second on the team with 26 receptions, though his yardage has now dropped to fourth with 201 yards.
Quarterback Jackson Arnold is optimistic about Farooq and Burks returning, noting that their presence could help open up Oklahoma’s offense. “Obviously, you’ve got two explosive guys coming back that are key pieces to our offense,” Arnold said Tuesday. “It almost opens up the running game too, because you’ve got DBs now focusing, and even backers focusing on Jalil and Deion… it’s a big confidence booster for the offense.”
However, Oklahoma’s leading rusher Jovantae Barnes is questionable. Barnes, who rushed for 203 yards and three touchdowns against Maine, leads the team with 577 rushing yards and five touchdowns this season on 122 carries.
Oklahoma’s offensive tackle Michael Tarquin could also return after missing last week’s 59-14 victory over Maine. Although he was seen with a protective boot, Tarquin was listed as questionable for the Missouri game.
Missouri has its own injury concerns, including quarterback Brady Cook, who is questionable after injuring his throwing hand against Alabama. Backup QB Drew Pyne, who replaced Cook, threw three interceptions. Missouri’s leading rusher, Nate Noel, is also questionable. Noel has recorded 503 rushing yards on 85 carries with two touchdowns.
Additional player statuses include Oklahoma’s Gavin Sawchuk (RB), Adepoju Adebawore (DE), and Joshua Bates (C), who are all questionable. Defensive end Ethan Downs is probable, while offensive tackles Jacob Sexton and Jake Taylor have been ruled out. Missouri’s former OU lineman Cayden Green is probable for the game.
Oklahoma and Missouri will face off Saturday night at Faurot Field.
