BY CLIFF SMELLEY
Telegraph Staff Writer
Union County High School senior defensive lineman Markus Strong was going to wait until the Feb. 1 National Signing Day, but he knew where he wanted to go, so he went ahead and made it official, signing with the University of Oklahoma on Early Signing Day (Dec. 21).
“It’s a huge blessing,” Strong said. “That’s my first feeling. Other than that, it’s pure excitement and ready to go work for them — go to work and play football like I love to do.”
Strong, who’s 6-3, 265, took an official visit to the school the weekend before Early Signing Day. He said after he and his family did a lot of talking and praying, he made the decision to go ahead and sign.
That made more than one dream come true. Strong, of course, wanted the chance to play in college, but he also said that Oklahoma was one of his dream schools growing up — something he told only a few people.
Georgia Tech, Maryland and West Virginia were schools Strong was also seriously considering, but he liked the atmosphere at Oklahoma and the people he met, saying they helped him experience some “amazing, good times” during his visits there.
“Of course, the football program is great, but a lot of schools have top programs,” Strong said, adding, “It was just nice being around those people — the coaches, the staff, the community. It’s a great community.”
Oklahoma’s head coach, Brent Venables, made his name as a defensive coordinator, which added to the appeal of playing for the Sooners.
“I wouldn’t say he sold it for me, but he was definitely a big factor in it,” Strong said. “He’s been known. His history is a proven track record.”
During his sophomore season, Strong made 48 tackles, including 12 for loss. He also caused a fumble and blocked a punt.
He missed his junior season due to an ACL injury, but returned his senior season to make 55 tackles (21.5 for loss). He had 10.5 sacks, three caused fumbles and two fumble recoveries.
“I loved it,” Strong said of being able to play this past season. “I got to get back on the field with some of my best friends. I’ve been playing with them since I was little. I enjoyed every moment of it.”
Strong said he didn’t think about getting college offers after his return from injury, saying he was 100-percent focused on playing. Any other thoughts would slow him down, he said.
When he did get that first offer (from South Alabama) though, especially considering he was coming off an injury, it was a big deal.
“Pure excitement,” Strong said. “I ran around the house screaming, telling my parents. I was just excited. It was a great feeling. It was a great moment for me.”
When it comes to transitioning to Division I-level ball, Strong said he’s looking forward to improving in all aspects of his game.
“I know I have no perfect attributes,” he said, adding, “I’m ready to train and learn. That’s all I can do.”
When Strong steps onto the field for the first time as a Sooner, the moment will be sweet, so to speak.
“I’ll be like a kid in a candy shop,” Strong said.
