Changes on deck for Sooner defense

Published Aug. 15, 2013 3:17 p.m. ET

foxsports

Oklahoma defensive coordinator Mike Stoops says he knows the Sooners must make changes this season to deal with the prolific offenses in the Big 12.

Last season, West Virginia rolled up 778 yards against the Sooners and Oklahoma State followed with a 618-yard outing. Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback Johnny Manziel keyed a 663-yard performance by Texas A&M as the Aggies routed the Sooners 41-13 in the Cotton Bowl.

Stoops says the Sooners must create more confusion among opposing offenses. Junior defensive back Julian Wilson says the ultimate goal is to "play with the quarterback's head."

Stoops says it's critical for players to understand the speed of the game and for Oklahoma's linebackers to be able to cover receivers while also plugging running lanes.