Norman, Okla. ? Linebacker Austin Box could miss the start of Oklahoma’s season because of a back injury that is expected to sideline him for three to six weeks.

Coach Bob Stoops announced through a school spokesman Tuesday that Box had a “disc issue” flare up in his back that was not a result of contact during practice. Box, who was among those in the mix to replace departing starters Keenan Clayton and Ryan Reynolds, could be out for at least the Sooners’ season opener Sept. 4 against Utah State and possibly through the first four games of the season.