Q&A with DE Frank Alexander
Senior defensive end Frank Alexander will finally be full-time starter on the OU defense, after spending the last two seasons as a part-timer.
After a promising sophomore campaign, Alexander regressed somewhat in 2010 as a junior. A preseason ankle sprain caused him to miss the opener; however, even after returning, Alexander was almost a non-factor the first half of the season.
But Alexander closed the year strong with eight tackles for loss and three sacks in OU’s final three games, and so far has had a banner spring camp. I spoke to him after Thursday’s practice:
Frank, how much are looking forward to this season, not having the kind of year last season you had hoped to have?
“I’m always looking to get better. I feel like I coulda did a lot more, just had a lot of issues last year. I’m ready to get out there and showcase my talent.”
You still had three huge games to close the year, did that give some momentum heading into the offseason?
“Oh yeah. By that time last year, things started to get back right. Started feeling more confident on the ankle and stuff. That was a big step. I’m ready to just keep going.”
What were the issues?
“High ankle sprain, strain on my Achilles tendon. Trying to turn a corner or bend, it was always aching. It’s a lot stronger now.”
Were the injuries your primary hindrance?
“Not just putting it on injuries. Just could have been a lot better in a lot more things. Basic stuff. Pad leverage. Technique. Bunch more stuff I could do better.”
With Jeremy Beal gone, you’re going to be getting a lot more attention from defenses. You looking forward to that challenge?
“I’m ready for it. The work in summer and work in two-a-days, I’ll get a lot better and be ready for it. I’m looking forward to it.”
-JT
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frank has always been a leader on defense since he got there at oklahoma. hopefully in 2011 he carries the ou banner well in every game and get his team up week in and week out for a national championship. i notice all last year all teams double-up on him too get too the quarterback or he would make them pay by someone else on ou team too get them. frank is a special player and thank you frank for coming back your senior season, you could have left for the nfl draft, but you chose too get your education and hopefully play for a national championship. you guys pratice good all-summer together and make a bond this season too play thru adversity all 4 quarters in every game. every team will be gunning for you so match there play and take the ball down the field too score and never look back. i truly believe the defense will bring it on every play, i want too see every oklahoma sooner play defense like ray lewis does for the baltimore ravens. ray lewis speech before every game this is my house and turf and no one is taking it from me. live by that and see what happens in 2011, you guys hit the weight room and sprints. ost of all listen too the coaches for advice and encouragement, after that its all on you how bad you want too WIN. BOOMER-SOONER FROM TEXAS. OUJOHNNY.