19 Oklahoma (4-2)

Now that the first semester is finished, it’s a good time to look at how wrestlers are performing based on expectations and assigning a grade is a simple way to do that. These are individual and based on individual expectations for each wrestler, so they vary. With the Southern Scuffle around the corner, here’s how each starter has graded out up to this point.

125lbs: Conrad Hendriksen: A
Hendriksen wasn’t even on my radar as a potential starter after grayshirting at Chattanooga, and has stepped up to the opportunity. His win over Strickenberger showed that he can compete with some of the best of the Big 12, and continues to develop through the year. He’s coming off a solid Reno tournament, where his only loss was to title contender Richie Figueroa. I’m not sure what his ceiling is this year, but he has the style to keep matches close which can be half the battle. If he can continue to improve his offense look for him to make an impact this season and be a name to watch for four years.

133lbs: Jace Koelzer: B-
Before the DNP at Reno, this grade would have been higher. An experienced conference transfer this offseason, the expectation was for him to qualify. He’s gotten ranked wins and I think he should still be able to, but hasn’t necessarily made the jump I expected in his second season at the weight. 133 is wide open, especially in the Big 12 past Daton Fix. If Koelzer can knock off some of the lower ranked competition, he should ensure himself a qualifying spot and have a chance to get a win or two.

141lbs: Mosha Schwartz: Incomplete
Until there’s more clarity to Schwartz’ injury status it’s hard to know what this weight looks like. Schwartz was having a great year up to that moment, and is a high All-American contender. If he can come back healthy, that’s big points for the Sooners. KJ Evans has looked good at 141 this year, but doesn’t seem to be on the same level yet. This is a weight to keep a close eye on for Oklahoma to finish strong…