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Oklahoma Sooners 5-2 Defense (1985) - Gary Gibbs

The 1985 Oklahoma Sooners football team etched its place in college football history as an indomitable force. Boasting an impeccable record of 11-0, they clinched the national championship under the seasoned guidance of Head Coach Barry Switzer, in his 13th season at Oklahoma.

Gary Gibbs, the defensive coordinator, played a pivotal role in the team's success. With a decade of experience at Oklahoma, Gibbs orchestrated one of the finest defenses in college football history. His defensive philosophy, characterized by a resilient "bend but don't break" approach, relied on a zone defense, leveraging secondary coverage to thwart big plays. Despite occasional challenges against the run and in yielding significant passing plays, Gibbs' strategic prowess contributed to the team's defensive prowess.

The 1985 Sooners' defense, a formidable unit, allowed a mere 183 points throughout the season, ranking among the top in the nation. Linebacker Brian Bosworth emerged as a defensive stalwart, amassing an impressive 151 tackles and 14 sacks, earning him a well-deserved first-team All-American selection. The defensive lineup also featured standout players, including defensive tackle Tony Casillas and safety Rickey Dixon.

The pinnacle of the season was the Orange Bowl, the national championship game. Facing the Penn State Nittany Lions, the Sooners secured a resounding 25-10 victory, clinching the national championship with an unblemished record of 11-0. This triumph marked a historic moment for the 1985 Oklahoma Sooners, solidifying their legacy as one of the most dominant teams in college football history.

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