Taylor Wein’s Key Plays Propel Oklahoma Past Alabama, 23-21

Oklahoma’s redshirt sophomore defensive end, Taylor Wein, made crucial contributions in the Sooners’ 23-21 victory over Alabama at Bryant-Denny Stadium on Saturday. With fellow defensive end R Mason Thomas sidelined, Wein stepped up, delivering two game-changing plays that helped secure Oklahoma’s win.

Wein’s first pivotal moment came just before halftime. He successfully leaped the line of scrimmage, getting a fingertip on Conor Talty‘s 36-yard field goal attempt, blocking it and allowing the Sooners to hold onto their three-point lead. Following the game, Oklahoma head coach Brent Venables praised Wein, stating, “He was fantastic. He’s exactly who he has been all year. One of our best defensive players.”

Reflecting on the block, Wein emphasized its significance: “We needed that, it was huge going into half. We definitely fed off of it and made some corrections at halftime and came back better.”

As the game progressed, Wein struck again near the end of the third quarter. With Alabama trailing 21-20, quarterback Ty Simpson attempted to extend the drive. Wein managed to strip the ball from Simpson, enabling teammate Kendal Daniels to recover the fumble. This turnover set Oklahoma’s offense up at the Crimson Tide’s 28-yard line, leading to a 24-yard field goal by Tate Sandell that ultimately secured the win.

“It changed the momentum of the game and got the offense in great field position,” Wein noted. “That’s the best part about it is giving the offense a chance in the red zone and that’s what we needed. We got points.” Though Wein’s statistics recorded only three tackles, one sack, and two quarterback hurries, his influence on the game transcended those numbers.

Venables expressed pride in Wein’s leadership and effort. “He’s going to give everybody else credit. He was really disruptive again and made some huge plays tonight that were real critical, pivotal plays in the game,” he said.

Wein’s performance was emblematic of the resilience displayed by the Sooners’ defense throughout the match. With Thomas absent, defensive tackles managed to control the line despite Jayden Jackson‘s limited participation due to injury. Additionally, the secondary stepped up in the absence of veteran Gentry Williams, with sophomore Devon Jordan contributing a sack that put Alabama behind the chains on their final possession.

Defensive tackle David Stone highlighted the team’s motto: “Next man up. The best ability is availability. That’s something that’s been coached to us our entire career.” He noted the contributions of both injured players and younger teammates, emphasizing their commitment to excellence.

As Oklahoma prepares for their upcoming matchup against Missouri, the status of Thomas remains uncertain. Nevertheless, Wein expressed confidence in the team’s depth and their ability to maintain high defensive standards. “At the end of the day, it’s the mentality of all the d-ends can play. That’s how talented this group is,” he said.

Oklahoma’s victory not only showcased their defensive prowess but also demonstrated the team’s ability to adapt and overcome challenges, a testament to their preparation and determination.