Very informed. Some added context:
Offense note 2021 --> 2022
OU's offensive in fancy stats took a big step back from top 5 to top 20 - 25. Points per game fell "only" 7 because OU had so many more drives per game.
Offense, running game:
Lebby will feel more comfortable running Gabriel, who's an asset running the ball. The threat of the QB run game will mitigate the loss of Brayden Willis, who was a true asset as a blocker. The RB position will be as good as last year running the ball. The OL showed surprising proficiency run blocking vs a good Florida St front 7.
Offense, passing game:
Gabriel is himself. Above average deep ball, avoids the middle of the field. It's unusal to see big jump in QB this late in his career. RB have to get better in pass protection, and we don't know if they can catch. WR needs at least one more transfer and/or one of the newcomers over the last couple of years to pop (5 new last year + 3 this year). OL was a disaster in pass pro vs FSU. Rouse will improve that, but it's a safe assumption that OU's OL pass protection will be worse with the loss of Anton Harrison (bigger loss than Mims?).
Defense note 2021 --> 2022
OU's defense gave up 4 ppg more last year but efficiency stayed about the same because they faced so many more drives. This is despite OU losing many of their best defensive players from the 2021 team (entire DL, best LB, best DB).
Defense, running game:
OU's DL was pushed around last year. Portal adds Lacy and Sears may at least hold point of attack better. Venable's LBs have a history of superlative play that wasn't shown last year. Improvement here will be expected. Safety play should also be better.
Defense, passing game:
OU couldn't rush the QB. That SHOULD change with several options at DE/Edge added in recruiting/portal (top high school Edge, McCullough, Bothroyd, Ford). LBs in zone seemed to develop a sense of playing receivers rather than areas of grass as the season progressed. DB play gradually improved as the year went on. At least there were few flat out busts in the latter half of the year. DB recruiting class was outstanding.