Norman, OK – Oklahoma cornerback Courtland Guillory etched his name into the Sooners‘ record books Saturday, becoming the first OU player in the modern era to record three interceptions in a single game during the team’s 77-3 victory over Illinois State. The performance marks a significant breakthrough for the redshirt sophomore, who has rapidly ascended the depth chart and is now a key component of the Oklahoma defense.
Guillory’s historic outing arrives as a testament to his dedication and rapid development, especially considering he wasn’t a starting cornerback at the beginning of the 2024 season.His emergence is particularly noteworthy given the early-season praise he received from coaches and teammates even while sidelined with an injury in August. The Sooners’ coaching staff believes Guillory’s continued growth under defensive coordinator Brent Venables and cornerbacks coach Jay Valai will be pivotal as the season progresses.
“Man,” quarterback Jackson Arnold said Monday, “(guillory) has been amazing. Love his planning.He’s came in, he’s prepared, he wants to get better, he takes every detail and he’s wide open – he listens, man. I’m so proud of him and everything he’s doing.”
The path to this moment wasn’t immediate for guillory, who initially broke into the starting lineup midway thru the campaign. Though, his coaches consistently highlighted his physical attributes and composure. “He’s very long, he’s extremely physical, and then he has great poise under pressure,” venables explained.
Guillory’s humble beginnings within the program were evident during an unexpected appearance at a post-practice media session earlier in preseason camp. Demonstrating a willingness to learn and contribute,he even offered to assist a reporter with their microphone,remarking with a smile,”Ah,it’s my first time doing this. They told me to come outside,I’m like,what,me?”
Reflecting on his progress,Guillory acknowledged his own surprise at his rapid betterment. “Honestly, I feel like every day I’m getting, you know, a little bit better and better,” he said. “You know, I’m just trying to stack the days, like coach said, and be ready when my number’s called.” With three interceptions against Illinois state, it’s clear his number was indeed called, and he answered with a performance for the ages. The Sooners will look to build on this momentum as they continue through their schedule.
