Cincinnati Football: Biggest takeaways from the Bearcats loss to Big 12 foe Oklahoma

Check out the biggest takeaways from the Big 12 opener including continuous red zone issues that overshadowed an impressive defensive showing.

Even though the Cincinnati Bearcats defense was able to limit one of the Big 12’s premier programs, it wasn’t enough in a loss to the Oklahoma Sooners.

Most of the blame is based on a lack of success in the red zone and third down, as the Bearcats have gone 15 consecutive drives without a touchdown.

The offensive line wasn’t able to protect quarterback Emory Jones on a consistent basis and the Sooners took advantage during the recent double digit win.

Cincinnati Football: Biggest takeaways from the Bearcats loss to Big 12 foe Oklahoma

Bryan Brown’s defense played well enough to keep Cincinnati within striking distance but the offense was just never able to make a dent in the deficit.

Other takeaways are Bearcats safety Bryon Threats becoming an elite playmaker and tight end Chamon Metayer making an impact in the passing game.

Scott Satterfield’s team couldn’t find success in the red zone for a second week in a row and Oklahoma was able to eventually pull away in the second half.

The Big 12 debut was a chance for Cincinnati to make a statement against a perennial conference contender but the talent disparity became clear.

Cincinnati Football: Bearcats continue to struggle in the red zone during loss to Oklahoma

Both teams moved the ball effectively and finished with 21 first downs but the Sooners coverted in the red zone and Cincinnati failed to do so once again.

Coming off a frustrating loss last week, the Bearcats were attempting to get back on track but the offense continued to sputter in several scoring opportunities.

Satterfield broke down the loss to Oklahoma and reacted to the concerning red zone troubles in the postgame press conference via Cincinnati Athletics.

The Bearcats will attempt to bounce back and snap the losing streak next week but a matchup against the BYU Cougars is going to be a difficult road test.