OU sophomore offensive lineman Michael Fasusi spoke to the media Thursday with high hopes going into the 2026 season.
Fasusi, a former five-star recruit, appeared in 11 games during his freshman season, starting 10 of them, including each of the final nine games of the year. With that experience under his belt, he expressed excitement about returning to the field and continuing his development as spring practices ramp up.
“I definitely see myself getting better in every single scheme,” Fasusi said. “My hands have been faster, more aggressive.”
Fasusi will line up alongside a group that returns much of its production from last season, as sophomore Ryan Fodje and redshirt sophomore Eddy Pierre-Louis are back at guard. Redshirt senior center Jake Maikkula will continue to anchor the middle, and Arkansas redshirt senior transfer E’Marion Harris will step in at right tackle. Fasusi said the continuity, combined with Harris’ addition, has helped elevate communication across the unit.
“The time that was put in … feels like magic,” Fasusi said. “(We’re) a coordinator with each other, commenting on every single play.”
That cohesion has been a point of emphasis early in spring, as the group looks to build consistency and sharpen execution heading into the fall. With several returning starters and added experience across the line, trust continues to grow with each rep.
Head coach Brent Venables expressed excitement about the continuity along the offensive line during media day on March 9.
"You got (Maikkula) and (Fodje) and (Fasusi) and (Pierre-Louis), and then you got Heath Ozaeta in there as guys coming back and then E’Marion Harris from Arkansas,” Venables said. “We got a little more experience coming back on offense.”
As practices continue, the focus remains on refining technique and becoming a more complete unit, building off the foundation established a year ago. With a full offseason to develop and a veteran group in place, Fasusi and the offensive line are looking to take another step forward.
This story was edited by Joshua McDaniel.
