Norman — Branson Hickman stood against the brick wall separating the Owen Field stands from the sideline, taking in the grandeur of Gaylord Family – Oklahoma Memorial Stadium, a massive venue with 80,126 seats.
Hickman, an offensive lineman transferring from SMU, had previously experienced the stadium’s atmosphere when he played against the Sooners last season. His desire to join a major college football program was cemented after visiting Oklahoma during the spring game.
“It’s amazing,” Hickman said Thursday after OU’s second preseason practice. “I wanted to come to a big school and play in a significant environment in the SEC, and OU is close to home. I couldn’t be more excited.”
A Dallas native, Hickman adds valuable experience to a newly restructured offensive line, having started 33 games in four years at SMU. He is expected to be OU’s starting center in 2024 and has already received endorsements from starting quarterback Jackson Arnold and a preseason Outland Trophy watch list nod, recognizing him as one of the nation’s top interior linemen.
In addition to the new stage, Hickman was drawn to Sooners offensive line coach Bill Bedenbaugh, known for developing NFL Pro Bowlers. “Coach B is one of the main reasons I came here,” Hickman noted. “His proven track record of sending guys to the NFL and succeeding in college made it an easy decision.”
The biggest question for OU heading into preseason camp was the new offensive line’s performance. The Sooners added several transfers: Spencer Brown from Michigan State, Geirean Hatchett from Washington, Febechi Nwaiwu from North Texas, and Michael Tarquin from USC. These five transfers collectively bring 99 career starts to the team.
With Hickman likely at center, Hatchett and Nwaiwu are strong candidates for the guard positions, while Tarquin competes for a tackle spot. Returning third-year player Jacob Sexton is expected to start at one of the tackle positions.
“I feel great,” Hickman said about the offensive line. “We have a lot of guys working hard. We’ve built strong relationships over the summer. As a transfer coming in later than others, I appreciate how they welcomed me as one of their own. It’s been a good experience so far.”
Defensive lineman Damonic Williams, a TCU transfer, expressed confidence in the offensive line’s prospects. “They’re going to be great,” Williams said. “All those doubts about the O-line can stop now. This defense and offense will be something special. Branson’s quick and smart; once he combines his power with speed, he’ll be a great center.”
Bedenbaugh is known for experimenting with different line configurations throughout the season to find the best combinations. The new offensive line’s bonding during the offseason was crucial. The group spent time together, including training with former OU star and current Philadelphia Eagles lineman Lane Johnson.
“It’s not easy building a new line,” Hickman acknowledged. “But going through summer together helped. We had weekend gatherings to bond outside the facility. Building real connections is essential.”
As training camp progresses, Hickman is savoring the experience of playing for the Sooners. Reflecting on last year’s game against OU, he recalled the vibrant atmosphere. “It was big-time, real college football. I knew I wanted to be part of that someday. Week 1 is going to be incredible. Playing in this stadium with fans cheering for me is going to be amazing.”
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