Oklahoma DB Earns Big 12 Honor

Originally posted on FanNation All Sooners
By Randall Sweet | Last updated 11/20/23

After a game-saving performance in Provo, UT, Oklahoma defensive back Billy Bowmen has been named the Big 12 Defensive Player of the Week.

With BYU driving deep in OU territory, the standout junior completely shifted the game’s momentum, potentially saving the Sooners’ season.

As Cougars’ quarterback Jake Retzlaff fired out to a wide receiver on the goal line, Bowmen stepped in front of the intended target and intercepted Retzlaff’s pass. Racing down the field, Bowmen managed to beat the BYU signal caller to the end zone, giving OU a 24-17 lead.

In addition to his game-changing pick six, Bowmen finished the contest with nine tackles and one tackle for loss. The Denton, TX product is the second Oklahoma player to earn Big 12 Defensive Player of the Week honors this season, joining star linebacker Danny Stutsman.

Stutsman earned the nomination after an impressive performance against Tulsa, which included a pick six of his own.

Bowman is tied for first in the Big 12 and second in the nation with five interceptions this season. The star safety also leads the country with two interceptions returned for touchdowns and 193 interception return yards.

The one-time Texas commit has tallied 52 tackles, three tackles for loss, and four pass deflections in addition to his five interceptions this season.