Dillon Gabriel Stats: Big Expectations Await Oklahoma Quarterback

Gabriel threw for over 3,000 yards and 25 TDs last year with OU

After a strong run at UCF, quarterback Dillon Gabriel’s first season with perennial Big 12 powerhouse Oklahoma was a mixed bag. Gabriel put up decent production, but it didn’t matter much, as the Sooners finished with a losing record for the first time in more than two decades.

With Gabriel back for another season under center, what can bettors expect from him moving forward? Let’s take a closer look at Dillon Gabriel’s stats.

Looking Back on 2022

Dillon Gabriel had massive shoes to fill following Caleb Williams’ departure. While he didn’t quite meet expectations, he still posted quality numbers in his first year at Oklahoma.

The Hawaiian southpaw bounced back from an injury-marred 2022 season at UCF to throw for 3,168 yards, 25 touchdowns, and only six interceptions, putting him among the Big 12’s most productive quarterbacks. He also contributed a bit on the ground, albeit not nearly at Williams’ level, rushing for 315 yards and six scores.

While Gabriel was relatively productive, reuniting with former UCF offensive coordinator, Jeff Lebby didn’t translate into much success for Oklahoma.

The Sooners finished 6-7 under first-year head coach Brent Venables, posting their first sub-.500 record since 1998. The disappointing season concluded with a 35-32 loss to Florida State in the Cheez-It Bowl, in which Gabriel was 14-of-24 passing with 243 yards and one touchdown. He also ran for a score.

It also marked the first time since 2014 that Oklahoma was not ranked in the final Associated Press or Coaches’ poll.

Gabriel flashed outstanding potential. In a 52-42 victory over No. 19 Kansas, he passed for 403 yards and accounted for three touchdowns. However, his performance also dipped at times. Against Big 12 champion TCU, Gabriel was 7-of-16 for 126 yards in the first half before leaving with a concussion. He also threw three interceptions against Baylor.

The three seasons prior at UCF, Gabriel threw for 70 touchdowns and 14 interceptions.

What to Expect Next Season

Dillon Gabriel’s stats should tick up in 2023. Why? For starters, Gabriel now has a full year under his belt at Oklahoma, so there shouldn’t be any concern about him needing to adjust.

The Sooners lost a sizable chunk of production at the skill positions — running back Eric Gray, wide receiver Marvin Mims, and tight end Brayden Willis were all selected in the NFL Draft, along with offensive linemen Anton Harrison, a first-round pick to Jacksonville at No. 27, and Wanya Morris — but the Sooners have proven adept at replacing top-end talent throughout the years.

Regardless of how Venables fares on the recruiting trail from here on out, there should be enough playmakers left in the cupboard to benefit Gabriel for one more year.

Jalil Farooq and Drake Stoops, the son of Oklahoma coaching legend Bob Stoops, are among the top receivers returning. The Sooners also welcome the nation’s No. 4-ranked recruit class, per 247Sports.

Given the Big 12’s propensity for shootouts, Gabriel possesses the capabilities to be one of the conference’s best quarterbacks next season. If you’re feeling bold, you can take him at +4000 to win the Heisman Trophy.

The NCAAF schedule will present plenty of opportunities for Gabriel, including a matchup against his former school when UCF visits on Oct. 21.

The Odds on Oklahoma

Oddsmakers are bullish on Oklahoma despite an underwhelming start to the Venables Era. The Sooners are projected for 9.5 wins and have the second-best NCAAF odds (+350) to win the Big 12 behind Texas (+110). Both schools are slated to leave for the SEC in 2024.

The Sooners are a +6000 pick to win the national championship, trailing several schools. Georgia is currently a +225 favorite to defend its title, followed by Alabama (+550), Ohio State (+600), and Michigan (+900).

For Dillon Gabriel stats, college football betting odds, analysis, and more, visit pointspreads.com

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