Jake Trotter answers readers' questions about Oklahoma football in his mailbag every Friday. Got a question for Jake? Submit it here.
Matt in Soonerville, U.S.A., writes: Would [defensive backs coach Willie] Martinez have been cut even if he didn't accept another job? Were they unhappy with his job performance? Am I right in thinking he did a much better job in 2010 than 2011?
Jake Trotter: Probably. Once Bob Stoops made the decision to bring his brother back that was it for Martinez. I agree that Martinez was solid in ’10. But his unit was nowhere good enough in ’11 to persuade Stoops from hiring Mike back.
Tosh in Dallas writes: Could the Mike Stoops hiring cause big-time defensive recruits to second guess their original commitments and put OU on the radar?
Jake Trotter: This late in the process I doubt it. OU fans hold Mike Stoops in much higher regard than 17-year-old kids do. Mike could make an impact on uncommitted recruits. And he certainly will make an impact in 2013. But I would be surprised if he got a big-time committed prospect to flip this close to signing day.
Michael in Long Beach, Calif., writes: In terms of prospect and potential, is Alex Ross considered to be on the same level as Brandon Williams? What type of runner or who does his style most resemble? Do you see him getting much playing time next year?
Jake Trotter: To your first question, yes. Both received grades of “82” from ESPNU’s high school scouts. Ross is a bigger back than Williams, and runs with more power. Will he play? That probably depends on the health of Dominique Whaley. But no doubt, Ross is loaded with potential.
Dustin in Austin, Texas, writes: Do you think Mike Stoops might help recruiting on the defensive side of the ball. Maybe even enough to get De'Vante Harris to reconsider Oklahoma?
Jake Trotter: Mike Stoops will help with recruiting, just not with Harris. I would be stunned if Harris gave the Sooners a second look. (Editor's Note: Read more about Harris' decision in our Sooner Intel.)
Mike in Dallas writes: Since the West Virginia situation has the 2012 schedule on hold, is the Big 12 giving them some sort of deadline? Also since OU's game against TCU is now a conference game, are there any rumors as to who they might replace TCU with?
Jake Trotter: I have not heard of any public deadline, but I’m sure Big 12 officials have a cut off point in mind. I have not been appraised of any specific teams OU might schedule in the non-conference. But I have been told to expect two cupcakes to go along with the previously scheduled game against Notre Dame.