Army’s near upset against Oklahoma was definitely a game that put Bateman’s name on the map in terms of being respected as one of the top defensive coordinators in the country. Oklahoma, was led by Heisman Trophy winner Kyler Murray. Army was the only team to hold the Sooners under 30 points in 2018.
Murray led the nation’s best offense in 2018. He became the number one NFL draft pick in 2019. The Sooners offense led the nation in scoring at 49.1 points per game and yards per game at 577.9. Army held OU to 28 points, an anemic for them, 355 total yards and only 165 passing.
Oklahoma & Army are in OT. Look at this time of possession. pic.twitter.com/oHS6omC7hG
— Jordan Strack (@JordanStrack) September 23, 2018
In their examination of Bateman, Inside the U noted that Bateman’s defense is similar to Diaz. Bateman likes to use pressure with “well-timed blitzes.” The six TFLs and three sacks by the North Carolina defense to begin the season were impressive coming against a Power Five opponent.
The Hurricanes have to protect better against Bateman’s defense. North Carolina had 19 pressures against South Carolina. Five of those pressures were produced by Surratt, He is clearly just a great football player. Surratt played QB the last two seasons against the Hurricanes.
Surratt was 5-13 for 33 yards in UNC losses to Miami. Surratt threw three interceptions in last season’s game but had nine carries for 69 yards and a TD.