The Sooners answered.
Oklahoma took the final four matches, all by decisions, to fend off the Mocs by a 23-14 final tally and remain undefeated on the season. Its 12-0 start is the best in 24 years, equaling Stan Abel's squad in 1985.
Trailing 10-14 heading into the 174 pound match, Jeff James got the ball rolling for OU with his 14th consecutive win this season, recording a 7-5 decision over William Garvin. Sooner wins by 184-pound Pat Flynn over Jason McCroskey and Eric Lapotsky over Ethan Winel at 197 pounds gave Oklahoma a 19-14 advantage.
Heavyweight Nathan Fernandez closed out the victory for Oklahoma by posting a 16-4 major decision over Cody Sliger.
"Our guys faced some adversity on the road today and I am pleased with the way most of them responded," head coach Jack Spates said. "We had several guys battling sickness and it is times like this when you have to dig deep and fight back."
Joey Fio at 125 pounds picked up a 4-1 decision over Paul Garza to give Oklahoma a 3-0 lead to begin the match. Losses at 133 pounds and 141 pounds for the Sooners followed, before the Terry twins, Kyle (149 pounds) and Chad (157 pounds), recorded back-to-back victories. Kyle defeated Daniel Waddell by a 14-3 major decision and Chad upset No. 19 Joe Knox, 6-0.
Oklahoma was forced to give up six points at 165 pounds after Ryan Smith was unable to compete due to illness, giving the Mocs a 10-14 team lead.
"There were some stellar performances today, including both Chad and Kyle Terry and Nathan Fernandez," Spates said. "Eric Lapotsky also looked really good today."
The Sooners return to action next Friday, Jan. 16, when they host the Maryland Terrapins at the McCasland Field House in Norman at 7 p.m. The dual will be showcased to a national radio audience by Takedown Radio hosted by Scott Casber.
"Our team is looking forward to a home match for the first time in over a month," Spates said. "We are going to continue to work and improve and look forward to a great crowd on Friday night."
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