**Norman** — Head coach Brent Venables offered updates on several Oklahoma players ahead of their Week 2 game against Houston but was non-committal about the return dates for some of them.
Nic Anderson, the Sooners’ top returning receiver from last season, missed last week’s opener against Temple due to an ongoing injury sustained during preseason. Venables indicated on Tuesday that Anderson “will be back sooner rather than later” but did not confirm if he would be ready for Saturday’s 6:45 p.m. game against Houston (0-1).
Anderson had a standout 2023 season, totaling 38 catches for 798 yards and 10 touchdowns. He led the team in touchdowns, ranked second in receiving yards, and third in receptions, earning Freshman All-America honors.
His eventual return will be a significant boost for an Oklahoma receiving unit already grappling with injuries to key players: Jayden Gibson is out for the season with a knee injury, and Jalil Farooq is sidelined for 6-8 weeks with a broken foot.
On a more positive note, sophomore Jaquaize Pettaway appears to be nearing full recovery from a hamstring injury that affected him during the preseason and last week’s opener. Pettaway, who played 11 snaps against Temple without a reception, might see increased playing time due to the current injury situation at wideout.
“He’s fast,” Venables said. “He’s got a good catch radius and is a really explosive player. Even last week, we were uncertain about his availability, but he’s ready to go. He can play both inside and outside. I think he’s on track for a great career.”
Regarding the offensive line, Venables mentioned that right tackle Jake Taylor is expected to play this weekend after missing the season opener. Center Branson Hickman, who sprained his ankle against Temple, looked promising in Monday’s practice, though his status for the weekend remains unclear.
Additionally, Venables provided an update on injured offensive lineman Troy Everett, who has been out since late March following knee surgery. Although Everett has been practicing and is ahead of schedule, he has not yet been fully cleared. Venables stated that Everett is “close” to returning but offered no further details on the redshirt junior, who played at left guard and center last season.
