For all his talent and motivation, Lamb is imperfect. So is every other 20-year-old star football player. But unlike many, Lamb learns from his mistakes. Following the game, he took full responsibility for the 30 yards he cost Oklahoma that day.

“That was 30-yards of penalty between me personally, and that was just because I wanted to be selfish,” Lamb said after the game. “That was on me, and I’ll take all the blame for it, and I’ll learn… I kid you not: For the rest of the time I’m here, that will never happen again.”

He can’t afford to make those mistakes this year. His performance could determine whether Oklahoma is competing for a national championship. And his attitude could determine whether he’s a first round draft pick.

Lamb’s growth as a man is why his younger brother, Taribbean Ramirez, wants to be just like him when he grows up.

“He’s a great big brother. I’ve always looked up to him,” Taribbean, 16, said. “He’s always been a great player and leader on and off the field. I want to live up to that. I want to become the man he’s become.”

Taribbean is following in Lamb’s footsteps at Foster, expecting to start at wide receiver this year as a junior. He gives a majority of the credit to his big brother, who has also been a personal coach.

He’s taught Taribbean the importance of footwork and strong hands. He’s also taught him to surround himself with good people, to treat people with respect and to put others before himself.

That’s Lamb, perhaps OU’s perfect leader for the coming season: Talented, but humble. Quiet, but ambitious. Relaxed, but hungry.

“What can I say,” Ramirez said. “He’s everything a mama could wish for.”

She might as well be speaking for OU, too.