True freshman Chris Polk, who started the first two games at tailback, suffered a torn labrum against Brigham Young.

Season-ending surgery is being considered, coach Tyrone Willingham said this afternoon. If Polk’s season is over, he would likely be allowed to take this as a redshirt season.

True freshman David Freeman is expected to start in his place Saturday. Willingham said the 180-pounder has been "very strong all camp" and was playing his way onto the field even before Polk went down.

Meanwhile, true freshman Johri Fogerson told reporters today that he is going to start at free safety on Sunday, apparently alongside strong safety Tripper Johnson.

That came as news to defensive coordinator Ed Donatell. However, start or not, Donatell said Fogerson is expected to make his college debut against No. 3 Oklahoma on Saturday ... less than two weeks after switching over from tailback.

Donatell said that Jason Wells would be a sure starter at safety if he was fully recovered from his ACL injury, but that isn't the case yet.

He also said the defense hadn't given up hope that linebacker E.J. Savannah might have rejoined the team in time to help this season. But the unit plans to excuses after Tuesday's news that Savannah has been given permission to transfer out.

Looking at the Sooners, Donatell said thier offense is strong in all phases: perhaps three future pros on the line, perhaps a future NFL quarterback, and receivers with speed and experience.