1. Who will fill Curtis Lofton’s middle linebacker spot?

Losing Curtis Lofton at the middle linebacker position is a tremendous void to fill. But I don’t believe it’s going to be as hard on the defense as some might think, though it will be difficult to find someone to replace Lofton’s 156 tackles last season. Look for junior Ryan Reynolds, a year removed from a season-ending ACL injury, to step up. The highly recruited linebacker out of Las Vegas has the potential to be a top statistical star.

2. Who will take over for the place-kicking duties?

Fans might have to hold their breath this year when the Sooners attempt extra points and field goals. After losing Garrett Hartley, who signed with the Denver Broncos as a free agent, the Sooners are on the lookout for a new place kicker. It will prove most difficult — Hartley connected on 13 of 15 opportunities last season. Oklahomans Jimmy Stevens, a redshirt freshman from Oklahoma City’s Heritage Hall, and Tress Way, a true freshman hailing from Tulsa Union, both will vie for the starting opportunity at the often thankless position. Stevens holds the national high school record with 50 career field goals. Way brings one hell of a leg with him as well as he makes his way to Norman.

3. Who will show up to play in the defensive backfield?

After losing Reggie Smith, D.J. Wolfe and Marcus Walker, one would think that the defensive backfield would take a tremendous hit. Last year, a highly touted secondary allowed 228 yards per game and finished 43rd in the nation in pass-efficiency defense. I say change is good. Dominique Franks picked off three passes in the Red/White spring game. Franks will be joined in the secondary by 2008 Chuck Bednarik Award watchlist honoree, strong safety Nic Harris. Lendy Holmes also will rejoin his secondary mates after missing the Fiesta Bowl last year because of eligibility problems. Look for redshirt freshman Sam Proctor to make some noise as well in the backfield.