Oklahoma abruptly lost its head coach when Bob Stoops decided to retire a little more than a week ago. But it still has its quarterback despite a drunken night in Arkansas that ended in his arrest.
Senior signal caller and 2016 Heisman Trophy finalist Baker Mayfield must complete a university alcohol education program and serve 35 hours of community service this summer as penance, the Sooners announced on Thursday. Some of the community service must include working with law enforcement, the school said, and did not mention a suspension of any game time in its release.
“As I stated earlier, I could not be more disappointed in my actions and the embarrassment they caused for my university and team,” Mayfield said in a Thursday statement. “I am anxious to fulfill the responsibilities that have been set and am continuing to dedicate myself to the high standard that everyone rightfully expects from someone in my position.”
Mayfield was arrested in Fayetteville, Arkansas, early on Feb. 25 and charged with public intoxication and resisting arrest. He then tried to flee the scene, which didn't end well for him.
Baker Mayfield tackled by officers. NSFW language. #Sooners pic.twitter.com/bctCWeWcD8
— Eric Bailey (@EricBaileyTW) March 10, 2017
Things might change from now until this fall under new head coach (and former offensive coordinator Lincoln Riley) but it doesn't look like the Sooners will be without their best player when they visit Columbus on Sept. 9 to take on Urban Meyer and Ohio State. Oklahoma hosts UTEP a week earlier to open its 2017 season.
Here is what Riley had to say Thursday about the punishment: “Baker has expressed regret for his actions and backed up his apology by being a model leader in our program. He has learned from his mistake and will continue to grow from it. The coaching staff and team has every confidence in him going forward.”
Sounds like we can expect No. 6 to suit up at Ohio Stadium in three months, as expected.
