Run the ball and stop the run.

That’s a very simple formula. But if Oklahoma is able to accomplish those two things there’s a good chance the Sooners are going to come away with a victory in their intersectional match-up with Miami.

There were time against North Texas last week OU had problems sustaining an inside running game, particularly in short-yardage situations. Many fans were saying the reason for this was the fact that Allen Patrick and Chris Brown didn’t play.

Bob Stoops had other ideas.

“I think the main problem is that early in the year it’s a matter of timing. In practices we don’t go down low in practice and block on the legs because we don’t want to get anyone hurt. So I think it takes a little time to get the players going. I’m not concerned. I think we’ll be able to get the job done.”

There has been a perception that Oklahoma is going to use the running back “by committee” this season. I’ll really be surprised it that happens. I think a key is to get the ball to Patrick and DeMarco Murray and much as they can.

“We’ll just see how the game is going. We’ll see what the flow is. If one of the backs is hot, we’re not going to take him out of the game,” says Stoops. “There will be a lot of variables on how we will employ our running backs. I just know we’re very talented at that position.”

Sam Bradford was really good in his Sooner debut last week. He did all the right things. He played with a lot of poise and the players will tell you that he had excellent control of the huddle. That’s so important.

Now let’s see what he does against a tremendous defense. Let’s see how he handles things on a physical level when the Hurricanes hard-hitting and super-quick defense is putting pressure on him. And let’s see what he does mentally when Miami changes things up and makes him audible at the line of scrimmage.

If Bradford plays well in this encounter, the Sooners could be rolling the rest of the season.

The key on the defensive side is to stop the Miami run game. Make them throw the ball. That’s been its downfall the last couple of years. Kyle Wright, who had been the starter the last couple of seasons, has been a major disappointment. That’s why he’s on the bench now watching Kirby Freeman lead the team.

Freeman is a nice athlete who can make things happen with his legs. However, make him throw the ball on third and long situations and he may have his problems.

The recipe for victory? Again, it’s quite easy. Don’t turn the ball over, stop the run on defense and be able to run the ball on offense.