10 Questions with Bobby Evans

NORMAN — Now in his second full season on the field, redshirt sophomore Bobby Evans has provided consistency on the offensive line for the Sooners. The Allen, Texas, native started the final 12 games of the 2016 season and was an honorable mention All-Big 12 selection by the league's coaches.

Also an Academic All-Big 12 First Team honoree who has started all seven games this season at right tackle for OU, Evans took a moment this week to discuss his improvements since the 2016 season, the team's focus on Big 12 play and the influence his family has had on his athletics career.

What has been the biggest difference for you between last year and this year?

“It's a mentality thing. Last year was my first year out on the field, but now that I have a little more experience I understand the concept of plays and schemes. Now, it's about my mentality and getting my job done; playing more physical and finishing my blocks.”

What has been your favorite moment this season?

“Recently, my favorite moment was when Rodney (Anderson) got the game-winning touchdown against Kansas State and my parents were in the front row in that end zone. I ran up and celebrated with them after that. Growing up, we weren't always so fortunate and my parents didn't come to a lot of away games, especially out of state. I thought that was a really cool experience, and to come back in a game like that, that was a special moment.”

What is your mentality as you prepare for the last month of conference play?

“It's going to be a grind every week. Every day you have to come with it because no matter who you face everyone can get beat. You have to take it day by day, week by week.”

Having started 19 career games, do you see yourself developing as a leader?

“I use my experience and share it with the freshmen who are trying to get better. You've got guys like Adrian Ealy trying to get better, and I'm just trying to give him what I know from playing. I know I haven't been playing that long, but I try to help him out and give him some tips and pointers for his game.”

If you could play a different position, what would it be?

“I would probably be a receiver or a tight end. I played tight end for a little bit in high school, but it was just my sophomore year and I was a blocking tight end.”

Do you have a pre-game ritual or any routine you do to get you prepared for a game?

“Not really. I listen to music and get in my zone. I pray, and, well, I guess it's some sort of ritual, but the night before I call my mom and talk to her for a little bit.”

What goes into developing the chemistry that the offensive line seems to have?

“We have a bond. It's a brotherhood. We talk to each other every day. There is not one day I'm not talking to them. We have a group message and hang out with each other all the time. It's a brotherhood.”

Considering your father, Bobby Joe, was a standout high school basketball player and played for the Sooners in the '90s, what went into your decision to pursue football instead of basketball?

“I can't quite answer that. Me and my brothers, we used to always run around the house and wrestle each other. We would go outdoors and hang with the neighborhood friends. We just decided to play football one day.”

What are some things your dad taught you?

“My dad is my biggest inspiration because he had three kids when he was in college playing basketball. He's been through it. I listen to whatever he has to say because he has been there. That's my dad, and he always makes sure I'm on top of my game. If I'm playing bad he will let me know. Trust me, he will let me know.”

Your brother Tay Evans played here as well. What is the relationship with him like and how was growing up and playing sports together?

“That's my best friend. He's not (playing) anymore, but to this day, I don't really do much without him, outside of football.”

What has been the biggest difference for you between last year and this year?

What has been your favorite moment this season?

What is your mentality as you prepare for the last month of conference play?

Having started 19 career games, do you see yourself developing as a leader?

If you could play a different position, what would it be?

Do you have a pre-game ritual or any routine you do to get you prepared for a game?

What goes into developing the chemistry that the offensive line seems to have?

Considering your father, Bobby Joe, was a standout high school basketball player and played for the Sooners in the '90s, what went into your decision to pursue football instead of basketball?

What are some things your dad taught you?

Your brother Tay Evans played here as well. What is the relationship with him like and how was growing up and playing sports together?

Players Mentioned

Adrian Ealy

Bobby Evans

Sponsors

University of Oklahoma Athletics