For more OU stories.

Patience could also describe Clay's career at OU. The junior running back has been waiting for his turn on the depth chart.

"Brennan has always been positive and works hard in practice," Oklahoma running backs coach Cale Gundy said. "He's been here for three years and has been a situational player for us. He's understood his role and he understands maybe some of his weaknesses.

"It was great to see him come out and perform the way he did, especially when we needed him."

Clay carried the load when Damien Williams (three carries, 7 yards) was sidelined with an ankle injury. Coach Bob Stoops, earlier in the week, said Dominique Whaley would start if Williams couldn't play. Whaley didn't start and had one rush for 2 yards.

What is Whaley's situation?

"He's healthy. I don't know if it's a complete, full, 100 percent back like it was the first go-around," Gundy said. "He practices well. He never has any problems in practice or out here. He's just a little hesitant and I just kind of think it is what it is."

With the two backs ailing, Clay made the most of his fifth career start and first this season. He had 24 carries against the Cyclones, which was just six shy of his total for 2012 entering the Big 12 Conference contest.

"That's part of the game," Clay said about getting his shot to play. "There are great backs that come to this university. I was fortunate enough to be able to wait my turn.

"I came out after preparing all week. I knew I had to step up, and I was fortunate enough to be able to do something."

Follow this link:
OU's Brennan Clay has career-high day rushing in starting role