What can Brown do for OU?
Oklahoma has had a history of finding quality junior college receivers to come in and contribute under Bob Stoops. Look no further than former Blinn Junior College standout Dede Westbrook, who may be putting together the most explosive season ever by an OU pass-catcher.
Recently, the Sooners figured it was a good idea to dip back into the JUCO ranks for an offensive weapon when they offered 2017 College of the Canyons (Cali.) wide receiver, Marquise Brown.
“Me and Coach (Cale) Gundy been in contact and also Coach (Dennis) Simmons and tonight we had a good conversation about life and football and after he let me know that they are officially offering me.”
The Oklahoma coaching staff was sure to immediately point out to Brown the success of Westbrook, a fellow JUCO wide receiver, in their offense.
However, 5-foot-11, 170-pound California native was actually already well aware of the former Blinn Junior College product.
“Oh yeah, (Dede) is a beast,” Brown said, "To see the success he has knowing where he came from is very inspirational."
Westbrook is a senior, though, which means his departure will leave a hole in the Oklahoma offense. Geno Lewis, the Penn State graduate transfer, who has come on strong at receiver, will also not be returning for the 2017 season. If redshirt sophomore Joe Mixon decides to leave for the NFL, all of the sudden there are massive voids for the Sooners on offense and in the return game.
According to Brown, the Oklahoma coaches believe that’s where he could step in.
“They really think I can come be a big impact for the team at wide receiver and also on special teams.”
Brown has been a dynamic weapon for the College of the Canyons offense. His electric speed makes him a threat to score from anywhere on the field and in any facet of the game. Since the Sooner coaching staff saw Brown's tape, they have been on board. According to Brown, once all of the possible hiccups that can come from a transfer were cleared, OU wasted no time in offering.
“Since they first contacted me, they told me they wanted to offer, but they had to do my background and make sure everything checks out,” recalled Brown.
Now, offer in hand, Brown himself has wasted little time in making Oklahoma a serious part of his recruitment. The newest Sooner offer has set up two official visits.
- West Virginia (Nov. 19 vs. Oklahoma)
- Oklahoma (Dec. 3 vs. Oklahoma State)
Despite Brown's enthusiasm for his new Sooner offer and scheduled trip, he is not ready to rush anything just that.
“My recruitment is still going. I'm just taking my time with the process nothing has really changed.”
With that said, it's clear that Oklahoma has certainly made a strong impression already on the explosive junior college pass-catcher.
“OU is a great school. I really like them. I'm looking for a place that can develop me to be the best I can be to make it to the next level."