Over the next two weeks, we will be examining the most indispensable player for every team in the Big 12. In other words, the player each team could least afford to lose to injury.

We’re knocking on wood before we turn in these posts; so no need to worry about a jinx.

We continue below with the Oklahoma Sooners.

Most indispensable player: Linebacker Eric Striker.

2014 stats: 68 tackles (45 solo), 17 tackles for loss, nine sacks, two fumble recoveries.

Why OU can’t afford to lose him: He can do things few defenders can do.

Not many pass-rushers can match the quickness, tenacity and acceleration of the Sooners linebacker. Striker can be a handful for any offense, forcing them to account for his pass rushing exploits or risk watching him change games with his disruptive nature. He also has the ability to make plays in the running game or drop into pass coverage to keep offenses honest.

Striker’s ability to win in one-on-one situations allows other defenders to shine and gives defensive coordinator Mike Stoops the ability to create things around the senior. The two-time All-Big 12 first teamer should be the centerpiece of the Sooners defense thanks to his versatility and experience (26 career starts).

The Sooners have other quality options as defensive end/linebacker hybrids, including Devante Bond, but Striker is impossible to replace. He is a proven playmaker (27.5 career tackles for loss) and a leader for the entire squad. The Sooners defense wouldn’t be the same without him.