Sooners anticipate Casey Walker's return
BY GUERIN EMIG World Sports Writer
Monday, September 10, 2012
NORMAN – After missing the first two weeks of the season, defensive tackle Casey Walker is expected to return for Oklahoma's next game against Kansas State Sept. 22.
The Sooners couldn't he happier.
"Casey is a big part of what we do," defensive coordinator Mike Stoops said today. "He gives us another stout body in the middle. He's played some great football for us here, and we're excited to get him back and get him going stronger than ever."
Walker, whose absence was termed a personal matter by coaches, has started 12 games over the past two seasons, registering 24 tackles and a sack along the way. Aside from statistics, his 309-pound frame occupies opposing blockers, freeing up teammates to make plays.
His presence will be critical against a Kansas State rushing attack that ranks sixth in the nation. The Wildcats rushed for 288 yards in their 52-13 victory over Miami Saturday.
Walker is listed behind starters McFarland and David King on OU's latest depth chart. Whether he starts, or how much he'll play, Sept. 22 might be predicated on what kind of condition he's in.
"He's missed a couple weeks, but he went through training camp," Stoops pointed out. "He practiced a great deal through the month of August. It shouldn't take him long to get back. We'll see where he's at. Hopefully he'll have a good practice tonight. We'll know more as he goes along."
