The Oklahoma Sooners have one of the best punters in the country, but, is that necessarily a good thing?
Originally from Central Michigan, Luke Elzinga transferred to Oklahoma as a 2021 All-MAC selection. He transferred in 2023 and competed for the starting punter job once he got to Normon. In the 2023 season, Elzinga took over as the primary punter for Oklahoma. He had a very impressive 2023 season, but the offense was much better to start the season than this one is, so we didn’t see him as much as we have now.
Heading into the 2024 season, Elzinga was already making an impact. He was named to the preseason watchlist for the Ray Guy Award, which recognizes the nation’s top punter. He averaged 45.1 yards per punt in 2023, which would have ranked in the top 20 nationally.
His punting helped Oklahoma improve in net punt yards and was crucial in games where field position was key, like the 2024 game against Houston where his punts were pivotal in a tight victory. His ability to pin opponents deep in their territory has been a game-changer for the Sooners, helping their defense stay so dominant.