Senior defensive end Nathan Peterson turned up the pressure against Texas Tech, sacking quarterback Graham Harrell twice and recovering a fumble.
Harrell had been sacked only two times in the previous three games.
With the two sacks, Peterson has 16.5 sacks and is seventh on OSU’s sack list tied with Juqua Thomas.
Peterson and the OSU defense have been working to increase the pressure they put on the opponents offense.
“It was real important to us to do that,” Peterson said. “We’ve been hearing that we weren’t getting much pressure and it was something that was important to us.”
Peterson has also been placed in a new role this season.
“Typically, I haven’t been a very vocal leader,” Peterson said. “That’s something I’ve been working on to improve. I took that upon myself to do that this week, mainly to let the guys know to relax and keep the intensity up. If you make a mistake, forget about and to move on.”
Defensive coordinator Tim Beckman said Peterson has done a good job taking on the added leadership.
Peterson said he is looking forward to keeping the pressure on when Sam Houston State comes to town Saturday. Former OU quarterback Rhett Bomar leads the Sam Houston offense.
“[Bomar’s] talent level is what gets our intensity up, and he’s very dangerous,” Peterson said.
Peterson battled injuries the first two years with the Cowboys. In his junior year, he earned honorable mention all-Big 12 from AP.
Peterson said he is thrilled to be healthy and playing again.
“It feels good, it’s fun to go out there and play full speed and not be slowed down or hampered by anything,” Peterson said.
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