Brian Simmons has been patiently waiting for his chance to shine as an offensive lineman at The University of Oklahoma. Simmons started his career at OU as a defensive tackle before being moved to the offensive line.

Simmons showed early promise as an offensive guard but suffered a knee injury just before the start of the 2006 season. In 2007, Simmons is healthy and he's becoming a fixture on the offensive line as James Patton is rotating Simmons into the starting lineup.

SoonerScoop.com writer-at-large Luke Mildren caught up with Simmons to get his take on his success in 2007 and the upcoming matchup with Texas.

Q: How do you think the offensive line is doing as a unit?
Brian Simmons: I think we are doing well. I think there is always room for improvement. I feel like we can play a lot better than we have, even though we have been playing pretty good.

Q: How do you feel you have progressed through the first four games?
Simmons: I feel like I am doing pretty well. This is really my first full season to get O-line experience from moving over from D-tackle. I mean playing both sides is really different, so this is like O-line 101. Every play I'm out there, I am learning.

Q: What are some of the things you feel you can improve on?
Simmons: I think my biggest problem would probably be thinking too much. Sometimes I notice my best games are when I just go out and play and do not worry about making mistakes. Just going out and playing hard is the main key.

Q: What do you feel is your biggest strength as a player?
Simmons: I think I am quick, strong, and athletic. I really think though that I have some big, strong hands. I really think if I get my hands on anybody then it is over.

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