Oklahoma O-line receives encouraging injury updates for two starters

Ryan Fodje and Jake Maikkula both returned to practice on Tuesday, with Fodje's MRI coming back negative. Both are expected to miss the season opener against UTEP as a precaution but are targeting the Michigan game. The Sooners' offensive line depth is bolstered by their quick recoveries.

EXPANDED:

Fodje's quick return is notable given he had shifted from right guard to center to cover for Maikkula, whose sprained MCL occurred when his knee was rolled up on during a full-contact scrimmage on Aug. 15. The initial 4-6 week prognosis placed his return around the Michigan game, which falls at roughly the four-week mark. Fodje's clean MRI allows him to resume practice, though he was held from some full-contact reps Tuesday.

The brief absences tested Oklahoma's depth along the interior. Heath Ozaeta moved to guard, while Caleb Nitta and Noah Best handled center responsibilities. Quarterback John Mateer expressed confidence in all three, citing their offseason