11 days ago
Texas hasn't started well against Ohio State on Saturday.
The Longhorns' first drive ended in a fumble, and the Buckeyes took a 3-0 lead. After that, Texas got the ball back, but it ended in an interception. It's probably one of the craziest interceptions you'll ever see.
MORE: Oklahoma quarterback John Mateer speaks out after upset loss to Michigan
Longhorns wide receiver Cam Coleman couldn't come up with the ball, and it was intercepted.
This is the third time in the last 20 seasons that the Longhorns turned the ball over on their first two drives. The two turnovers also came within the first five minutes of the first quarter.
#ended #buckeyes
The Longhorns' first drive ended in a fumble, and the Buckeyes took a 3-0 lead. After that, Texas got the ball back, but it ended in an interception. It's probably one of the craziest interceptions you'll ever see.
MORE: Oklahoma quarterback John Mateer speaks out after upset loss to Michigan
Longhorns wide receiver Cam Coleman couldn't come up with the ball, and it was intercepted.
This is the third time in the last 20 seasons that the Longhorns turned the ball over on their first two drives. The two turnovers also came within the first five minutes of the first quarter.
#ended #buckeyes
11 days ago
The Oklahoma Sooners lost one of their very best players to injury on Saturday in their 17-10 loss against the Michigan Wolverines. In the game's first quarter, star fifth-year linebacker Kip Lewis injured his right knee, initially returning to the game with a brace on. However, he quickly exited again, and was in the sideline in street clothes for the remainder of the contest.
After the game, head coach Brent Venables gave a quick update on Lewis' status, which wasn't a positive one for the Sooners.
"He'll miss some time," Venables said.
OU struggled mightily on defense in the first half, at least relative to their standards in Norman. However, the second half was better. The Sooners gave up just seven points when they were backed up following an interception from quarterback John Mateer.
Brent Venables on #Sooners star LB Kip Lewis:
“He’ll miss some time.” pic.twitter.com/N38qMRW1ym
#Sooners
After the game, head coach Brent Venables gave a quick update on Lewis' status, which wasn't a positive one for the Sooners.
"He'll miss some time," Venables said.
OU struggled mightily on defense in the first half, at least relative to their standards in Norman. However, the second half was better. The Sooners gave up just seven points when they were backed up following an interception from quarterback John Mateer.
Brent Venables on #Sooners star LB Kip Lewis:
“He’ll miss some time.” pic.twitter.com/N38qMRW1ym
#Sooners
11 days ago
It wasn't a good Saturday afternoon for Oklahoma quarterback John Mateer and the rest of the program.
Oklahoma came into Saturday's game against Michigan as a slight favorite and ranked No. 11 in the AP poll, but it didn't matter. Michigan took a 10-0 lead into halftime before winning 17-10.
MORE: Oklahoma State makes history in upset win over Oregon
Mateer didn't have a good game for the Sooners, finishing with only 189 yards through the air, one touchdown, and one interception. He was missing throws constantly and never looked comfortable against Michigan's defense.
After the game, Mateer was asked about his performance and, as expected, he wasn't happy.
#oklahoma #michigan #good #state
Oklahoma came into Saturday's game against Michigan as a slight favorite and ranked No. 11 in the AP poll, but it didn't matter. Michigan took a 10-0 lead into halftime before winning 17-10.
MORE: Oklahoma State makes history in upset win over Oregon
Mateer didn't have a good game for the Sooners, finishing with only 189 yards through the air, one touchdown, and one interception. He was missing throws constantly and never looked comfortable against Michigan's defense.
After the game, Mateer was asked about his performance and, as expected, he wasn't happy.
#oklahoma #michigan #good #state
11 days ago
Oklahoma football panic meter: Can Sooners still make CFP push despite ugly Michigan loss? appeared first on ClutchPoints. Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Oklahoma football faced, arguably, the most questionable 1-0 team in the nation Saturday. Now fans are questioning coach Brent Venables, quarterback John Mateer and company. Michigan stunned the No. 11 Sooners 17-10 in Ann Arbor to spark early panic out of OU.
And the Wolverines pulled off the upset following a widely scrutinized week. Michigan became criticized and ridiculed following its controversial finish against Western Michigan. Quarterback Bryce Underwood then faced a potential benching following some strong words from head coach Kyle Whittingham.
But now it's the Sooners who'll face the critics. Including determining if the panic meter is high already in Norman.
Watch sports LIVE with fuboTV (free trial)
#michigan #panic #following
Oklahoma football faced, arguably, the most questionable 1-0 team in the nation Saturday. Now fans are questioning coach Brent Venables, quarterback John Mateer and company. Michigan stunned the No. 11 Sooners 17-10 in Ann Arbor to spark early panic out of OU.
And the Wolverines pulled off the upset following a widely scrutinized week. Michigan became criticized and ridiculed following its controversial finish against Western Michigan. Quarterback Bryce Underwood then faced a potential benching following some strong words from head coach Kyle Whittingham.
But now it's the Sooners who'll face the critics. Including determining if the panic meter is high already in Norman.
Watch sports LIVE with fuboTV (free trial)
#michigan #panic #following
11 days ago
Michigan improved to 2-0 on Saturday afternoon, beating Oklahoma 17-10.
Here are key takeaways from Michigan's win.
Michigan quarterback Bryce Underwood was just 9-of-17 passing for 111 yards and was marginally better throwing the ball than he was in Week 1. However, he did some great things on the ground, including a 38-yard rushing touchdown to put Michigan up 7-0. In all, Underwood had 87 yards on the ground and the score. Underwood will have to improve passing. While Michigan should continue to lean on what he does best (running), that approach is bound to be stopped on a given week; the defense will give up more than 10 points, and Underwood's arm will decide if Michigan loses. Today was a step in the right direction; he didn't throw an interception despite a couple near picks. Even so, Michigan has a lot of tough games coming up this season (Penn State, Indiana, Oregon, Ohio State) and improvement is necessary through the air.
Michigan had 11 penalties for 90 yards, and many of these extended drives for Oklahoma. Jyaire Hill had a late hit, Dom Nichols ripped John Mateer's helmet off, Shamari Earls had a facemask penalty. Eliminating penalties was a point of emphasis heading into this game, but the team failed to follow the message that head coach Kyle Whittingham had. Michigan's lucky that all the yellow flags didn't cost them the game — because they nearly did.
Michigan held Oklahoma to just 289 yards and 3-of-13 on third down. Defensive end John Henry Daley (eight tackles, one sack) was an absolute force and disrupted Oklahoma quarterback John Mateer's timing, as was defensive end Dom Nichols (0.5 sacks). Linebackers such as Troy Bowles (nine tackles) and Nathaniel Staehling (seven tackles) played well, and safety Chris Bracy (six tackles) delivered hard hits throughout the game. It was a cohesive effort (besides the penalties).
#michigan #oklahoma #game #state
Here are key takeaways from Michigan's win.
Michigan quarterback Bryce Underwood was just 9-of-17 passing for 111 yards and was marginally better throwing the ball than he was in Week 1. However, he did some great things on the ground, including a 38-yard rushing touchdown to put Michigan up 7-0. In all, Underwood had 87 yards on the ground and the score. Underwood will have to improve passing. While Michigan should continue to lean on what he does best (running), that approach is bound to be stopped on a given week; the defense will give up more than 10 points, and Underwood's arm will decide if Michigan loses. Today was a step in the right direction; he didn't throw an interception despite a couple near picks. Even so, Michigan has a lot of tough games coming up this season (Penn State, Indiana, Oregon, Ohio State) and improvement is necessary through the air.
Michigan had 11 penalties for 90 yards, and many of these extended drives for Oklahoma. Jyaire Hill had a late hit, Dom Nichols ripped John Mateer's helmet off, Shamari Earls had a facemask penalty. Eliminating penalties was a point of emphasis heading into this game, but the team failed to follow the message that head coach Kyle Whittingham had. Michigan's lucky that all the yellow flags didn't cost them the game — because they nearly did.
Michigan held Oklahoma to just 289 yards and 3-of-13 on third down. Defensive end John Henry Daley (eight tackles, one sack) was an absolute force and disrupted Oklahoma quarterback John Mateer's timing, as was defensive end Dom Nichols (0.5 sacks). Linebackers such as Troy Bowles (nine tackles) and Nathaniel Staehling (seven tackles) played well, and safety Chris Bracy (six tackles) delivered hard hits throughout the game. It was a cohesive effort (besides the penalties).
#michigan #oklahoma #game #state
11 days ago
Michigan did not need any clock discrepancies to go its way against Oklahoma.
A week after one of the most incredulous endings in recent college football history, the Wolverines' defense again starred as Michigan upset No. 11 Oklahoma 17-10 in Ann Arbor. With an offense stalled out for much of the second half, Michigan's go-ahead score came courtesy of a short field.
Jyaire Hill picked off a poor John Mateer pass and returned the ball 24 yards to Oklahoma's 6 yard-line. Two plays later, Jordan Marshall was in the end zone and the Wolverines had their game-winning margin.
Another look at UMichFootball's BIG INT in the fourth quarter 〽️ pic.twitter.com/KSNOt6F7k4
With just less than eight minutes to go, Oklahoma had plenty of time to get a game-tying score. Instead, the Sooners' offense ran nine plays over its next two possessions. The first ended in a punt. The second ended in a turnover on downs at midfield without even getting a first down.
#wolverines #game
A week after one of the most incredulous endings in recent college football history, the Wolverines' defense again starred as Michigan upset No. 11 Oklahoma 17-10 in Ann Arbor. With an offense stalled out for much of the second half, Michigan's go-ahead score came courtesy of a short field.
Jyaire Hill picked off a poor John Mateer pass and returned the ball 24 yards to Oklahoma's 6 yard-line. Two plays later, Jordan Marshall was in the end zone and the Wolverines had their game-winning margin.
Another look at UMichFootball's BIG INT in the fourth quarter 〽️ pic.twitter.com/KSNOt6F7k4
With just less than eight minutes to go, Oklahoma had plenty of time to get a game-tying score. Instead, the Sooners' offense ran nine plays over its next two possessions. The first ended in a punt. The second ended in a turnover on downs at midfield without even getting a first down.
#wolverines #game
11 days ago
The Oklahoma Sooners take on the Michigan Wolverines on Saturday in a big-time road matchup in Ann Arbor, Mich. Both teams are looking to remain undefeated two weeks into the season.
The Sooners won the game in Norman a year ago behind a big game from John Mateer. In a 24-13 win in primetime, Mateer threw for 270 yards, a touchdown, and an interception. He also carried the ball 19 times for 74 yards and two touchdowns. The Sooners were up 14-0 at halftime before a 75-yard touchdown run from Justice Haynes on the first play from scrimmage of the second half cut the lead to 14-7.
Mateer and the Sooners made it 21-7 with 10 minutes to go in the third, and the defense stifled Bryce Underwood and the Wolverines to earn the 24-13 win. Oklahoma held Underwood to 9 of 24 for 142 yards passing and three carries for minus-1 yard rushing. Outside of the 75-yard run, Oklahoma held the Wolverines to just 2.29 yards per carry.
Oklahoma is expected to have a better offense than the one that beat the Wolverines in 2025. If the Sooners can get a similar defensive effort against a team that struggled to move the ball on the MAC's Western Michigan, it should be a good day for the boys in the crimson and cream.
More: 3 Keys to an Oklahoma Sooners win over the Michigan Wolverines
#Sooners #michigan #yards
The Sooners won the game in Norman a year ago behind a big game from John Mateer. In a 24-13 win in primetime, Mateer threw for 270 yards, a touchdown, and an interception. He also carried the ball 19 times for 74 yards and two touchdowns. The Sooners were up 14-0 at halftime before a 75-yard touchdown run from Justice Haynes on the first play from scrimmage of the second half cut the lead to 14-7.
Mateer and the Sooners made it 21-7 with 10 minutes to go in the third, and the defense stifled Bryce Underwood and the Wolverines to earn the 24-13 win. Oklahoma held Underwood to 9 of 24 for 142 yards passing and three carries for minus-1 yard rushing. Outside of the 75-yard run, Oklahoma held the Wolverines to just 2.29 yards per carry.
Oklahoma is expected to have a better offense than the one that beat the Wolverines in 2025. If the Sooners can get a similar defensive effort against a team that struggled to move the ball on the MAC's Western Michigan, it should be a good day for the boys in the crimson and cream.
More: 3 Keys to an Oklahoma Sooners win over the Michigan Wolverines
#Sooners #michigan #yards
12 days ago
Week 2 of the 2026 college football season rolls on with quarterback John Mateer and the Oklahoma Sooners visiting the Michigan Wolverines on Saturday, Sept. 12, at Michigan Stadium in Ann Arbor.
The Sooners are coming off a 51-0 rout of UTEP in the season opener, while the Wolverines stunned Western Michigan 13-12 on a controversial Hail Mary after one second was put back on the clock.
Here's how to watch the Sooners-Wolverines game, including time, TV schedule and streaming information:
More: What will OU football OL look like vs Michigan? Latest injury updates
Watch Oklahoma vs UTEP live with SEC Network+
#michigan #Sooners #wolverines
The Sooners are coming off a 51-0 rout of UTEP in the season opener, while the Wolverines stunned Western Michigan 13-12 on a controversial Hail Mary after one second was put back on the clock.
Here's how to watch the Sooners-Wolverines game, including time, TV schedule and streaming information:
More: What will OU football OL look like vs Michigan? Latest injury updates
Watch Oklahoma vs UTEP live with SEC Network+
#michigan #Sooners #wolverines
12 days ago
Michigan defensive end Dom Nichols understands exactly what John Mateer can do when a pass rush loses containment.
He saw it last September.
Mateer threw for 270 yards and added 74 more on the ground while accounting for three touchdowns in Oklahoma's 24-13 victory over Michigan. The Wolverines will get another shot at the Sooners on Saturday, and Nichols is not being subtle about what he expects when Mateer tries to escape the pocket this time.
"He's not getting away from me," Nichols said this week.
There is some bite behind the confidence. Nichols opened the 2026 season with nine tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss and 1.5 sacks against Western Michigan, emerging as one of the few uncomplicated positives from Michigan's shaky 13-12 victory.
#victory #john #september #saturday
He saw it last September.
Mateer threw for 270 yards and added 74 more on the ground while accounting for three touchdowns in Oklahoma's 24-13 victory over Michigan. The Wolverines will get another shot at the Sooners on Saturday, and Nichols is not being subtle about what he expects when Mateer tries to escape the pocket this time.
"He's not getting away from me," Nichols said this week.
There is some bite behind the confidence. Nichols opened the 2026 season with nine tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss and 1.5 sacks against Western Michigan, emerging as one of the few uncomplicated positives from Michigan's shaky 13-12 victory.
#victory #john #september #saturday
13 days ago
The Oklahoma Sooners come to Ann Arbor for the first time in history. Oklahoma is 2-0 all-time versus Michigan, but will they remain undefeated after the game on Saturday?
Here's a look at Oklahoma ahead of the showdown against Michigan.
Oklahoma head coach Brent Venables won two national championships as defensive coordinator of Clemson and is considered one of the best defensive minds in the nation. Venables is 33-20 at Oklahoma but has struggled in bowl games, going 0-4. In Oklahoma's lone playoff appearance under Venables, they lost 34-24 to Alabama in the CFP First Round last season.
Oklahoma beat UTEP 51-0 last week, holding their opponent to 2-of-13 on third-down with just 198 yards of total offense. Oklahoma's offense had 401 total yards and quarterback John Mateer threw for three passing touchdowns.
Passing offense: 69
#offense #defensive
Here's a look at Oklahoma ahead of the showdown against Michigan.
Oklahoma head coach Brent Venables won two national championships as defensive coordinator of Clemson and is considered one of the best defensive minds in the nation. Venables is 33-20 at Oklahoma but has struggled in bowl games, going 0-4. In Oklahoma's lone playoff appearance under Venables, they lost 34-24 to Alabama in the CFP First Round last season.
Oklahoma beat UTEP 51-0 last week, holding their opponent to 2-of-13 on third-down with just 198 yards of total offense. Oklahoma's offense had 401 total yards and quarterback John Mateer threw for three passing touchdowns.
Passing offense: 69
#offense #defensive
0.00$ raised of 0.00$ goal
0 donations
0.00$
to go
17 days ago
NORMAN — Following a Week 1 shutout of UTEP, ninth-ranked Oklahoma heads out onto the road for a marquee Week 2 matchup.
The Sooners will travel to face No. 16 Michigan at 11 a.m. CT Saturday at Michigan Stadium.
The Wolverines defeated Western Michigan, 13-12, after a 47-yard Hail Mary on the final play of the game. The play occurred after officials added one second to the game clock.
OU, on the other hand, handled the Miners with ease. The Sooners scored on their first eight possessions and held UTEP to 198 total yards.
Quarterback John Mateer looked comfortable within an offense that utilized multiple tight ends for most of the contest. He completed 11 of his 17 pass attempts for 225 yards and was pulled late in the third quarter.
#utep #oklahoma
The Sooners will travel to face No. 16 Michigan at 11 a.m. CT Saturday at Michigan Stadium.
The Wolverines defeated Western Michigan, 13-12, after a 47-yard Hail Mary on the final play of the game. The play occurred after officials added one second to the game clock.
OU, on the other hand, handled the Miners with ease. The Sooners scored on their first eight possessions and held UTEP to 198 total yards.
Quarterback John Mateer looked comfortable within an offense that utilized multiple tight ends for most of the contest. He completed 11 of his 17 pass attempts for 225 yards and was pulled late in the third quarter.
#utep #oklahoma
18 days ago
The Oklahoma Sooners started the 2026 college football season with a dominant performance against the University of Texas at El Paso Miners. The Sooners showcased dominant performances on offense and defense, winning 51-0.
One of the stars of the night was quarterback John Mateer. He looked really good in the game, completing 11-of-17 passes for 225 yards and three scores with no interceptions. Mateer is coming off an up-and-down season in 2025 in which he injured his thumb early in the season. But on Friday he looked healthy and showcased why Oklahoma was so high on him last season.
Mateer spoke about his performance in his postgame press conference.
"I thought it was pretty clean," Mateer said via Oklahoma's Own. "There are a couple of plays that you want back, obviously. I threw a little stop route to Trell (Harris) into the ground on a forced RPO there. Overall it was clean, and I thought the guys played really well."
That ****** sment fits the night. Mateer was not perfect, but he avoided the costly mistakes that hurt Oklahoma at times last season and consistently connected on explosive plays. The UTEP game was an ideal way for Mateer to begin his final season at Oklahoma.
#mateer #really
One of the stars of the night was quarterback John Mateer. He looked really good in the game, completing 11-of-17 passes for 225 yards and three scores with no interceptions. Mateer is coming off an up-and-down season in 2025 in which he injured his thumb early in the season. But on Friday he looked healthy and showcased why Oklahoma was so high on him last season.
Mateer spoke about his performance in his postgame press conference.
"I thought it was pretty clean," Mateer said via Oklahoma's Own. "There are a couple of plays that you want back, obviously. I threw a little stop route to Trell (Harris) into the ground on a forced RPO there. Overall it was clean, and I thought the guys played really well."
That ****** sment fits the night. Mateer was not perfect, but he avoided the costly mistakes that hurt Oklahoma at times last season and consistently connected on explosive plays. The UTEP game was an ideal way for Mateer to begin his final season at Oklahoma.
#mateer #really
19 days ago
Here's a complete schedule of the 2026 Oklahoma Sooners football team, including game times and TV channel information.
Keep refreshing this page throughout the season for updates.
REQUIRED READING: John Mateer had to confront his worst moments with OU football to rediscover confidence
Buy tickets to Oklahoma football on StubHub
What's the best-case and worst-case scenario for each game? Colton Sulley breaks down the Sooners' schedule.
#worst
Keep refreshing this page throughout the season for updates.
REQUIRED READING: John Mateer had to confront his worst moments with OU football to rediscover confidence
Buy tickets to Oklahoma football on StubHub
What's the best-case and worst-case scenario for each game? Colton Sulley breaks down the Sooners' schedule.
#worst
20 days ago
The Oklahoma Sooners open the 2026 college football season in one more day. You smell that? Smells like opportunity. The Sooners have put together a roster with the potential to make some magic happen this season. The Oklahoma Sooners are one of the most talented teams in the SEC and are considered a dark horse to win the conference this year.
First up for the Sooners are the UTEP Miners, a team that's won just five games total in the last two seasons. On paper, the Sooners are the better team. They're a more experienced team on both sides of the football and are looking to build off of their 10-2 season and College Football Playoff appearance in 2026.
Each week, the staff at Sooners Wire will provide their predictions for each Oklahoma Sooners game. So to kickstart the 2026 season, here are the first Sooners Wire Staff Predictions of the year.
Oklahoma gets the season started off with a blowout win, as UTEP is likely the easiest W on the 2026 schedule. OU will look to pound the rock in this game and give the running backs and offensive line a dose of confidence before the Michigan game. The Sooners will just want to see efficiency and good decisions from John Mateer. On defense, look for the secondary to have a big day and try to force turnovers, while the front seven should be suffocating for the UTEP offense. All in all, a sound tune-up win in Norman where plenty of depth players should see playing time.
Oklahoma 45, UTEP 3
#team #game
First up for the Sooners are the UTEP Miners, a team that's won just five games total in the last two seasons. On paper, the Sooners are the better team. They're a more experienced team on both sides of the football and are looking to build off of their 10-2 season and College Football Playoff appearance in 2026.
Each week, the staff at Sooners Wire will provide their predictions for each Oklahoma Sooners game. So to kickstart the 2026 season, here are the first Sooners Wire Staff Predictions of the year.
Oklahoma gets the season started off with a blowout win, as UTEP is likely the easiest W on the 2026 schedule. OU will look to pound the rock in this game and give the running backs and offensive line a dose of confidence before the Michigan game. The Sooners will just want to see efficiency and good decisions from John Mateer. On defense, look for the secondary to have a big day and try to force turnovers, while the front seven should be suffocating for the UTEP offense. All in all, a sound tune-up win in Norman where plenty of depth players should see playing time.
Oklahoma 45, UTEP 3
#team #game
21 days ago
Oklahoma Sooners football printable 2026 schedule with dates, times and TV lineup originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Quarterback John Mateer returns after leading the Sooners to the College Football Playoff last season, and he has the Sooners poised to make coach Brent Venables' fifth season overall and third in the Southeastern Conference his best yet.
Oklahoma's offensive line is much more experienced than last year, and the Sooners have an enviable stable of capable running backs, led by Xavier Robinson, Tory Blaylock and Colorado State transfer Lloyd Avant.
The defense established itself as one of the nation's best last season, and it could be better this time around. Six players who started at least six games last season return from a unit that led the nation in sacks per game and tackles for loss per game.
MORE: Oklahoma coach Brent Venables says Sooners likely won't play Friday games in the future
#last #oklahoma #brent
Quarterback John Mateer returns after leading the Sooners to the College Football Playoff last season, and he has the Sooners poised to make coach Brent Venables' fifth season overall and third in the Southeastern Conference his best yet.
Oklahoma's offensive line is much more experienced than last year, and the Sooners have an enviable stable of capable running backs, led by Xavier Robinson, Tory Blaylock and Colorado State transfer Lloyd Avant.
The defense established itself as one of the nation's best last season, and it could be better this time around. Six players who started at least six games last season return from a unit that led the nation in sacks per game and tackles for loss per game.
MORE: Oklahoma coach Brent Venables says Sooners likely won't play Friday games in the future
#last #oklahoma #brent
24 days ago
The Oklahoma Sooners are less than a week away from beginning their pursuit of another national championship. The Sooners last won a ****** le in 2000, and if they hope to do that this season, they need to get help from the offense.
The Sooners ranked No. 92 in total offense last year. They struggled to establish a run game and protect quarterback John Mateer. That was largely due to starting three freshmen offensive linemen. One of those is former five-star Michael Fasusi, who started at left tackle. He's expected to be the starter again this season.
College football ****** yst Josh Pate is very high on Fasusi, calling him his pick for breakout player for the Sooners.
"The breakout player is Michael Fasusi," Pate said on 'Josh Pate's College Football Show.' "He was pressed into action last year. Had to start at tackle as a true freshman. You don't often talk about offensive linemen as breakout players, but I think he qualifies. He's a guy with Sunday traits. He's had them since he arrived on campus."
More: Will the Oklahoma Sooners' offensive line make the jump?
#breakout
The Sooners ranked No. 92 in total offense last year. They struggled to establish a run game and protect quarterback John Mateer. That was largely due to starting three freshmen offensive linemen. One of those is former five-star Michael Fasusi, who started at left tackle. He's expected to be the starter again this season.
College football ****** yst Josh Pate is very high on Fasusi, calling him his pick for breakout player for the Sooners.
"The breakout player is Michael Fasusi," Pate said on 'Josh Pate's College Football Show.' "He was pressed into action last year. Had to start at tackle as a true freshman. You don't often talk about offensive linemen as breakout players, but I think he qualifies. He's a guy with Sunday traits. He's had them since he arrived on campus."
More: Will the Oklahoma Sooners' offensive line make the jump?
#breakout
28 days ago
The 2026 college football season is now just nine days away, and the Oklahoma Sooners are set to embark on what could be a magical season. Coming off a 10-2 year and a playoff appearance, the Sooners have the talent and the leadership to go make another run this season.
There were few questions about the roster entering fall camp, and few still remain as Oklahoma readies for its Week 1 matchup with the UTEP Miners. The roster that head coach Brent Venables and general manager Jim Nagy have constructed has the talent to make a lot of noise this season.
Certainly, Oklahoma has something to prove with the way 2025 ended in their playoff loss to Alabama. If Oklahoma can avoid some of the mistakes that cost them, as it did against Texas, Ole Miss, and the Crimson Tide, and if it can find a running game to provide some balance to the offense, OU will be in good shape.
As we get ready for the start of the 2026 season, here's our final depth chart projection ahead of Week 1.
John Mateer
#make
There were few questions about the roster entering fall camp, and few still remain as Oklahoma readies for its Week 1 matchup with the UTEP Miners. The roster that head coach Brent Venables and general manager Jim Nagy have constructed has the talent to make a lot of noise this season.
Certainly, Oklahoma has something to prove with the way 2025 ended in their playoff loss to Alabama. If Oklahoma can avoid some of the mistakes that cost them, as it did against Texas, Ole Miss, and the Crimson Tide, and if it can find a running game to provide some balance to the offense, OU will be in good shape.
As we get ready for the start of the 2026 season, here's our final depth chart projection ahead of Week 1.
John Mateer
#make
29 days ago
NORMAN — Oklahoma announced its team captains ahead of the 2026 season.
Safety Peyton Bowen, defensive linemen David Stone and Taylor Wein, linebackers Owen Heinecke and Kip Lewis, quarterback John Mateer and offensive linemen Michael Fasusi, Jake Maikkula and Eddy Pierre-Louis were named the Sooners' season captains Tuesday.
Entering his second season at OU, Mateer has cemented himself as even more of a leader and is out to prove he's gotten better. He's fresh off an up and down season in which he broke his thumb and threw for 2,885 yards, 14 touchdowns and 11 interceptions.
On defense, Bowen, Heinecke, Lewis, Stone and Wein are crucial veterans who opted to return. Bowen and Wein were each members of the All-SEC Second Team last season.
Fasusi, Maikkula and Pierre-Louis are three out of the four offensive linemen with starting experience with the Sooners on an offensive line that is expected to be improved. Maikkula will miss time with a "short-term" injury and isn't expected to play in the opener.
#season #linemen
Safety Peyton Bowen, defensive linemen David Stone and Taylor Wein, linebackers Owen Heinecke and Kip Lewis, quarterback John Mateer and offensive linemen Michael Fasusi, Jake Maikkula and Eddy Pierre-Louis were named the Sooners' season captains Tuesday.
Entering his second season at OU, Mateer has cemented himself as even more of a leader and is out to prove he's gotten better. He's fresh off an up and down season in which he broke his thumb and threw for 2,885 yards, 14 touchdowns and 11 interceptions.
On defense, Bowen, Heinecke, Lewis, Stone and Wein are crucial veterans who opted to return. Bowen and Wein were each members of the All-SEC Second Team last season.
Fasusi, Maikkula and Pierre-Louis are three out of the four offensive linemen with starting experience with the Sooners on an offensive line that is expected to be improved. Maikkula will miss time with a "short-term" injury and isn't expected to play in the opener.
#season #linemen
29 days ago
NORMAN — Oklahoma announced its team captains ahead of the 2026 season.
Safety Peyton Bowen, defensive linemen David Stone and Taylor Wein, linebackers Owen Heinecke and Kip Lewis, quarterback John Mateer and offensive linemen Michael Fasusi, Jake Maikkula and Eddy Pierre-Louis were named the Sooners' season captains Tuesday.
Entering his second season at OU, Mateer has cemented himself as even more of a leader and is out to prove he's gotten better. He's fresh off an up and down season in which he broke his thumb and threw for 2,885 yards, 14 touchdowns and 11 interceptions.
On defense, Bowen, Heinecke, Lewis, Stone and Wein are crucial veterans who opted to return. Bowen and Wein were each members of the All-SEC Second Team last season.
Fasusi, Maikkula and Pierre-Louis are three out of the four offensive linemen with starting experience with the Sooners on an offensive line that is expected to be improved. Maikkula will miss time with a "short-term" injury and isn't expected to play in the opener.
#wein #maikkula #heinecke
Safety Peyton Bowen, defensive linemen David Stone and Taylor Wein, linebackers Owen Heinecke and Kip Lewis, quarterback John Mateer and offensive linemen Michael Fasusi, Jake Maikkula and Eddy Pierre-Louis were named the Sooners' season captains Tuesday.
Entering his second season at OU, Mateer has cemented himself as even more of a leader and is out to prove he's gotten better. He's fresh off an up and down season in which he broke his thumb and threw for 2,885 yards, 14 touchdowns and 11 interceptions.
On defense, Bowen, Heinecke, Lewis, Stone and Wein are crucial veterans who opted to return. Bowen and Wein were each members of the All-SEC Second Team last season.
Fasusi, Maikkula and Pierre-Louis are three out of the four offensive linemen with starting experience with the Sooners on an offensive line that is expected to be improved. Maikkula will miss time with a "short-term" injury and isn't expected to play in the opener.
#wein #maikkula #heinecke
30 days ago
On the first day of classes in Pullman, WSU announced its starting quarterback: UC Davis transfer Caden Pinnick. Many people thought Pinnick was the favorite to win the starting job the minute he stepped on campus, but meaningful separation wasn't made until later in fall camp.
Pinnick will bring a level of dynamism that the Cougars became accustomed to with Jayden de Laura, Cam Ward, and John Mateer. Offensive coordinator Matt Miller will look to leverage Pinnick's elite running ability to create better opportunities for his returning running backs. Last season, when Zevi Eckhaus took over for Jaxon Potter, we saw how much that opened up the run game for Kirby Vorhees, as defenses had to respect Zevi's running ability.
Pinnick turned in an incredible season at FCS UC Davis last year, putting up over 3,200 passing yards and 32 touchdowns, with only 10 interceptions. Not to mention 437 yards rushing. Obviously, Pinnick will be making the jump to a higher level of football, but there is no reason to think he can't make that transition in Washington State's offense.
Pinnick was the runner-up for the Jerry Rice Award, given to the top freshman in the FCS, was the unanimous 2025 Big Sky Freshman of the Year, and earned FCS first-team Freshman All-American honors.
Spring and fall haven't been quite as clean as offensive coordinator Matt Miller might have liked, but as time went along, Pinnick began to take more control of the offense and show his experience. However, it is important to point out that these internal camps greatly favor the defenses, who know your tendencies, and coaches (especially ones as good as Trent Bray) often know what plays are coming.
#pinnick #running #davis
Pinnick will bring a level of dynamism that the Cougars became accustomed to with Jayden de Laura, Cam Ward, and John Mateer. Offensive coordinator Matt Miller will look to leverage Pinnick's elite running ability to create better opportunities for his returning running backs. Last season, when Zevi Eckhaus took over for Jaxon Potter, we saw how much that opened up the run game for Kirby Vorhees, as defenses had to respect Zevi's running ability.
Pinnick turned in an incredible season at FCS UC Davis last year, putting up over 3,200 passing yards and 32 touchdowns, with only 10 interceptions. Not to mention 437 yards rushing. Obviously, Pinnick will be making the jump to a higher level of football, but there is no reason to think he can't make that transition in Washington State's offense.
Pinnick was the runner-up for the Jerry Rice Award, given to the top freshman in the FCS, was the unanimous 2025 Big Sky Freshman of the Year, and earned FCS first-team Freshman All-American honors.
Spring and fall haven't been quite as clean as offensive coordinator Matt Miller might have liked, but as time went along, Pinnick began to take more control of the offense and show his experience. However, it is important to point out that these internal camps greatly favor the defenses, who know your tendencies, and coaches (especially ones as good as Trent Bray) often know what plays are coming.
#pinnick #running #davis
1 month ago
The Oklahoma Sooners could have one of the most improved offenses in college football in 2026. A team that finished No. 93 in the nation in scoring offense will have a better offensive line and improved play from quarterback John Mateer, simply because he's healthier. But the Sooners have a deeper wide receiver corps this season.
Oklahoma made upgrades through the transfer portal with the additions of Trell Harris and Parker Livingstone, but they have talent developing on the depth chart in 2025 signees Manny Choice and Elijah Thomas. With a week left in fall camp, it sounds like Thomas, a former four-star prospect out of Checotah, Okla., is turning heads.
"...shoot made in the lab," veteran wide receiver Isaiah Sategna said after practice on Tuesday. "He, I mean, yoked up (strong), super fast, you know. And like I said, with the young guys, you know, we just gotta work the details, you know."
Elijah Thomas' athleticism and big-play ability earned him four-star status coming out of high school. As a true freshman, he didn't get many opportunities on offense, but he was a standout special teams performer. He's parlayed that work, along with the absence of Harris and Livingstone in spring ball, into opportunities with the first-team offense during training camp. Thomas is creating buzz and could be a player for the Sooners this fall.
When Teddy Lehman and Gabe Ikard were discussing what stood out to them on The Oklahoma Breakdown at fall camp from the skill positions, Ikard immediately said Thomas.
#livingstone
Oklahoma made upgrades through the transfer portal with the additions of Trell Harris and Parker Livingstone, but they have talent developing on the depth chart in 2025 signees Manny Choice and Elijah Thomas. With a week left in fall camp, it sounds like Thomas, a former four-star prospect out of Checotah, Okla., is turning heads.
"...shoot made in the lab," veteran wide receiver Isaiah Sategna said after practice on Tuesday. "He, I mean, yoked up (strong), super fast, you know. And like I said, with the young guys, you know, we just gotta work the details, you know."
Elijah Thomas' athleticism and big-play ability earned him four-star status coming out of high school. As a true freshman, he didn't get many opportunities on offense, but he was a standout special teams performer. He's parlayed that work, along with the absence of Harris and Livingstone in spring ball, into opportunities with the first-team offense during training camp. Thomas is creating buzz and could be a player for the Sooners this fall.
When Teddy Lehman and Gabe Ikard were discussing what stood out to them on The Oklahoma Breakdown at fall camp from the skill positions, Ikard immediately said Thomas.
#livingstone
1 month ago
The Oklahoma Sooners are a top-10 program heading into the 2026 college football season, according to the preseason AP poll released on Monday. The Sooners came in at No. 10, coming off a 10-3 season and a College Football Playoff berth in 2025.
However, not everyone is on board with the Sooners' top-10 ranking. On "SportsCenter," ESPN's Paul Finebaum said that Oklahoma doesn't belong that high.
"I don't know how people realistically think Oklahoma's going to finish in the top-10," Finebaum said. "You can say whatever you want about what they have in John Mateer... but, Matt, their schedule is beyond brutal."
Former Sooner great Gerald McCoy had an issue with that statement from Finebaum. He tweeted saying that Oklahoma is one of the best programs in the history of college football, and they don't shy away from anyone.
"Schedule?" McCoy posted. "That's your reason, Finebaum? Man, this is the scariest, weakest statement ever. Winning a natty ain't easy. It has to be earned. This is OKLAHOMA FOOTBALL. We ain't worried about no schedule, man. We welcome all smoke!! Top universities, say line it up!! And we are a top university. Line it up with whoever!! Win, lose or draw, we ain't ducking ****** ODY. Home or road."
#Sooners #mccoy
However, not everyone is on board with the Sooners' top-10 ranking. On "SportsCenter," ESPN's Paul Finebaum said that Oklahoma doesn't belong that high.
"I don't know how people realistically think Oklahoma's going to finish in the top-10," Finebaum said. "You can say whatever you want about what they have in John Mateer... but, Matt, their schedule is beyond brutal."
Former Sooner great Gerald McCoy had an issue with that statement from Finebaum. He tweeted saying that Oklahoma is one of the best programs in the history of college football, and they don't shy away from anyone.
"Schedule?" McCoy posted. "That's your reason, Finebaum? Man, this is the scariest, weakest statement ever. Winning a natty ain't easy. It has to be earned. This is OKLAHOMA FOOTBALL. We ain't worried about no schedule, man. We welcome all smoke!! Top universities, say line it up!! And we are a top university. Line it up with whoever!! Win, lose or draw, we ain't ducking ****** ODY. Home or road."
#Sooners #mccoy
1 month ago
There has been a lot made by the playmakers that the Oklahoma Sooners have added around quarterback John Mateer. Last season, the Sooners ranked No. 92 in total offense.
A major reason for the struggles was that the team lacked enough playmakers beyond wide receiver Isaiah Sategna. So, the Sooners attacked the transfer portal, adding Virginia Cavaliers wide receiver Trell Harris and Texas Longhorns wide receiver Parker Livingstone. Those two have received a ton of offseason buzz.
However, during fall camp, two sophomores are getting a lot of attention. That is Manny Choice and Elijah Thomas. Head coach Brent Venables spent time in his press conference on Friday, calling out the two young receivers.
"For the Oklahoma Sooners to be the team that we want to be, that we've talked about wanting to be, it includes Manny and Elijah Thomas being dudes," Venables said via SoonerScoop. "Not being freshmen, who, you know, are forgotten. They're now sophomores, like being dudes. Showing up and having some purpose to what they're doing. So far, camp's been good for those guys. They've taken another step from where we were in the spring."
Venables' comments are significant because Oklahoma needs more than just its veteran playmakers to emerge if the offense is going to take a meaningful step forward in 2026.
#Sooners #wide
A major reason for the struggles was that the team lacked enough playmakers beyond wide receiver Isaiah Sategna. So, the Sooners attacked the transfer portal, adding Virginia Cavaliers wide receiver Trell Harris and Texas Longhorns wide receiver Parker Livingstone. Those two have received a ton of offseason buzz.
However, during fall camp, two sophomores are getting a lot of attention. That is Manny Choice and Elijah Thomas. Head coach Brent Venables spent time in his press conference on Friday, calling out the two young receivers.
"For the Oklahoma Sooners to be the team that we want to be, that we've talked about wanting to be, it includes Manny and Elijah Thomas being dudes," Venables said via SoonerScoop. "Not being freshmen, who, you know, are forgotten. They're now sophomores, like being dudes. Showing up and having some purpose to what they're doing. So far, camp's been good for those guys. They've taken another step from where we were in the spring."
Venables' comments are significant because Oklahoma needs more than just its veteran playmakers to emerge if the offense is going to take a meaningful step forward in 2026.
#Sooners #wide
2 months ago
NORMAN — David Stone let something slip during fall camp that he wasn't supposed to.
While OU typically waits until the week of its season opener to announce its football team captains, the star defensive lineman revealed he is learning the ropes as one of the Sooners' captains for the 2026 season.
"This is my first time ever being captain of any team, so I told the guys I'm grateful for the opportunity that you guys have given me," Stone said after Friday's practice.
More: OU football QB John Mateer is calmer entering Year 2 as Sooners' QB1. Here's why
When asked if the team had picked captains, Stone nervously laughed and said, "Nah." But he talked about his process stepping in the role for a minute before going silent.
#Football
While OU typically waits until the week of its season opener to announce its football team captains, the star defensive lineman revealed he is learning the ropes as one of the Sooners' captains for the 2026 season.
"This is my first time ever being captain of any team, so I told the guys I'm grateful for the opportunity that you guys have given me," Stone said after Friday's practice.
More: OU football QB John Mateer is calmer entering Year 2 as Sooners' QB1. Here's why
When asked if the team had picked captains, Stone nervously laughed and said, "Nah." But he talked about his process stepping in the role for a minute before going silent.
#Football
2 months ago
NORMAN — David Stone let something slip during fall camp that he wasn't supposed to.
While OU typically waits until the week of its season opener to announce its football team captains, the star defensive lineman revealed he is learning the ropes as one of the Sooners' captains for the 2026 season.
"This is my first time ever being captain of any team, so I told the guys I'm grateful for the opportunity that you guys have given me," Stone said after Friday's practice.
More: OU football QB John Mateer is calmer entering Year 2 as Sooners' QB1. Here's why
When asked if the team had picked captains, Stone nervously laughed and said, "Nah." But he talked about his process stepping in the role for a minute before going silent.
#captains
While OU typically waits until the week of its season opener to announce its football team captains, the star defensive lineman revealed he is learning the ropes as one of the Sooners' captains for the 2026 season.
"This is my first time ever being captain of any team, so I told the guys I'm grateful for the opportunity that you guys have given me," Stone said after Friday's practice.
More: OU football QB John Mateer is calmer entering Year 2 as Sooners' QB1. Here's why
When asked if the team had picked captains, Stone nervously laughed and said, "Nah." But he talked about his process stepping in the role for a minute before going silent.
#captains
2 months ago
NORMAN — Brent "Double Nickels" Venables is the oldest head coach in the SEC, but he was once a 28-year-old co-defensive coordinator on Bob Stoops' first OU staff.
Even younger than Ben Arbuckle, then 29, when Venables hired the former Washington State offensive coordinator to run OU's offense. Arbuckle, who's since turned 30 and is a month shy of 31, is set to enter his second season as the Sooners' OC.
Year 1 was as rocky as the mountains that bear his name. Oklahoma ranked ninth in passing, 13th in rushing and 14th in yards per play in the 16-team SEC. Quarterback John Mateer, who followed Arbuckle from Wazzu to OU, was ineffective after injuring his hand. OU's offensive line was green. The running game stagnated. The passing attack was void of big plays.
But now Mateer is healthy, and his supporting cast is more experienced.
Arbuckle included.
#mateer #coordinator #passing #norman
Even younger than Ben Arbuckle, then 29, when Venables hired the former Washington State offensive coordinator to run OU's offense. Arbuckle, who's since turned 30 and is a month shy of 31, is set to enter his second season as the Sooners' OC.
Year 1 was as rocky as the mountains that bear his name. Oklahoma ranked ninth in passing, 13th in rushing and 14th in yards per play in the 16-team SEC. Quarterback John Mateer, who followed Arbuckle from Wazzu to OU, was ineffective after injuring his hand. OU's offensive line was green. The running game stagnated. The passing attack was void of big plays.
But now Mateer is healthy, and his supporting cast is more experienced.
Arbuckle included.
#mateer #coordinator #passing #norman
2 months ago
The Oklahoma Sooners have a total of seven Heisman Trophy winners in the program's storied history. Running backs Billy Vessels (1952), Steve Owens (1969), and Billy Sims (1978) took home the coveted award in the 20th century, while quarterbacks Jason White (2003), Sam Bradford (2008), Baker Mayfield (2017), and Kyler Murray (2018) captured the trophy in the 21st century.
However, the last time OU had a player finish the season as a Heisman finalist came in 2019. That means Oklahoma has yet to have a Heisman finalist in the Brent Venables era.
One ESPN **** yst thinks that could all change this season. Jordan Rodgers highlighted his top five Heisman Trophy candidates coming into the season, and he placed OU starting quarterback John Mateer at No. 5 on his list. Mateer finished behind Ole Miss QB Trinidad Chambliss, Texas QB Arch Manning, Indiana QB Josh Hoover, and Ohio State QB Julian Sayin.
"He's gonna be 100% healthy," Rodgers said. "When he is, he's one of the more dynamic dual-threat quarterbacks in the country ... John Mateer's gonna put up massive numbers."
Of course, Mateer was the Heisman Trophy favorite through the first month of the season last year, but his broken hand derailed that train. His play dropped off after having surgery, and he couldn't place the ball the same way he had in September.
#rodgers #john
However, the last time OU had a player finish the season as a Heisman finalist came in 2019. That means Oklahoma has yet to have a Heisman finalist in the Brent Venables era.
One ESPN **** yst thinks that could all change this season. Jordan Rodgers highlighted his top five Heisman Trophy candidates coming into the season, and he placed OU starting quarterback John Mateer at No. 5 on his list. Mateer finished behind Ole Miss QB Trinidad Chambliss, Texas QB Arch Manning, Indiana QB Josh Hoover, and Ohio State QB Julian Sayin.
"He's gonna be 100% healthy," Rodgers said. "When he is, he's one of the more dynamic dual-threat quarterbacks in the country ... John Mateer's gonna put up massive numbers."
Of course, Mateer was the Heisman Trophy favorite through the first month of the season last year, but his broken hand derailed that train. His play dropped off after having surgery, and he couldn't place the ball the same way he had in September.
#rodgers #john
2 months ago
Oklahoma Sooners quarterback John Mateer has a chance to be the first Sooner quarterback since Josh Heupel in 2000 to win a national championship. This comes after Mateer elected to return to Norman rather than pursue an NFL career.
Mateer had a down year in his first year in Norman. He completed 62.2% of his passes for 2,885 yards, 14 touchdowns and 11 interceptions, while rushing for 431 yards and eight scores. This comes after leading college football in 2024 at Washington State with 44 total touchdowns.
But there is some optimism for Mateer as the Sooners revamped the playmakers around him. It's due to those new players that ESPN's Greg McElroy believes Mateer could be in for a bounce-back season.
"He had to do a lot of it on his own," McElroy said on 'Always College Football.' "The run game last year was not what you were looking for. I mean, Venables even described it as not good. So, they go out and hire a great running backs coach who helped develop Ashton Jeanty and Jeremiyah Love... They upgraded the receiver room with Parker Livinstone from Texas and Trell Harris from Virginia. Remember those two names. I think those two names will be really good."
Mateer's 2025 season showed the challenges of transitioning to the SEC, especially when an offense lacks consistent playmakers around its quarterback. This season should look much different. Oklahoma has improved its running back room, added more weapons at receiver and returns an offensive line that gained valuable experience last season.
#year #mcelroy
Mateer had a down year in his first year in Norman. He completed 62.2% of his passes for 2,885 yards, 14 touchdowns and 11 interceptions, while rushing for 431 yards and eight scores. This comes after leading college football in 2024 at Washington State with 44 total touchdowns.
But there is some optimism for Mateer as the Sooners revamped the playmakers around him. It's due to those new players that ESPN's Greg McElroy believes Mateer could be in for a bounce-back season.
"He had to do a lot of it on his own," McElroy said on 'Always College Football.' "The run game last year was not what you were looking for. I mean, Venables even described it as not good. So, they go out and hire a great running backs coach who helped develop Ashton Jeanty and Jeremiyah Love... They upgraded the receiver room with Parker Livinstone from Texas and Trell Harris from Virginia. Remember those two names. I think those two names will be really good."
Mateer's 2025 season showed the challenges of transitioning to the SEC, especially when an offense lacks consistent playmakers around its quarterback. This season should look much different. Oklahoma has improved its running back room, added more weapons at receiver and returns an offensive line that gained valuable experience last season.
#year #mcelroy
2 months ago
The Oklahoma Sooners made some key transfer portal additions this past winter, with many of them coming on offense. Once it was confirmed that quarterback John Mateer was going to be back in the saddle to run the show in Norman, the focus for OU turned to surrounding him with talent offensively.
One of those crucial portal additions was former Texas wide receiver Parker Livingstone, who was a breakout player in Austin last year. Now, he crosses the Red RIver to the other side of the iconic rivalry, where he'll hope to help jump-start the Sooner offense.
According to ESPN's list of each top 25 team's x-factor for this upcoming season, Livingstone is the player for the Sooners that can heavily impact where Oklahoma ends up. The redshirt-sophomore should be slated into one of the outside receiver spots, likely the X-WR role that was held down by the combination of Keontez Lewis and Javonnie Gibson last season, and OU needs him to be an improvement piece there this fall.
"In the history of the Red River Rivalry, rarely ever has a player left the Longhorns for the Sooners. But former Texas receiver Livingstone -- quarterback Arch Manning's roommate last year -- could become a difference-maker for his new quarterback, John Mateer. The 6-foot-3, 202-pound Livingstone, who had six touchdown catches as a redshirt freshman last year, should give Oklahoma a physical weapon on the outside alongside returning go-to pass-catcher Isaiah Sategna III and Virginia transfer Trell Harris, who was a third-team All-ACC selection last year." - Jake Trotter, ESPN.
With the speedy Sategna once again manning the H-WR role in the slot and Harris occupying the deep threat Z-WR role that Deion Burks held last year, Livingstone can use his size and physicality to offer OU something it didn't really have last year: a jump ball threat on the outside. Combine that trio with the likes of Jer'Michael Carter, Mackenzie Alleyne, Jacob Jordan, Ivan Carreon, and some promising youngsters, and the Sooners have a chance to be an improved WR group this year.
#year #livingstone #oklahoma #player
One of those crucial portal additions was former Texas wide receiver Parker Livingstone, who was a breakout player in Austin last year. Now, he crosses the Red RIver to the other side of the iconic rivalry, where he'll hope to help jump-start the Sooner offense.
According to ESPN's list of each top 25 team's x-factor for this upcoming season, Livingstone is the player for the Sooners that can heavily impact where Oklahoma ends up. The redshirt-sophomore should be slated into one of the outside receiver spots, likely the X-WR role that was held down by the combination of Keontez Lewis and Javonnie Gibson last season, and OU needs him to be an improvement piece there this fall.
"In the history of the Red River Rivalry, rarely ever has a player left the Longhorns for the Sooners. But former Texas receiver Livingstone -- quarterback Arch Manning's roommate last year -- could become a difference-maker for his new quarterback, John Mateer. The 6-foot-3, 202-pound Livingstone, who had six touchdown catches as a redshirt freshman last year, should give Oklahoma a physical weapon on the outside alongside returning go-to pass-catcher Isaiah Sategna III and Virginia transfer Trell Harris, who was a third-team All-ACC selection last year." - Jake Trotter, ESPN.
With the speedy Sategna once again manning the H-WR role in the slot and Harris occupying the deep threat Z-WR role that Deion Burks held last year, Livingstone can use his size and physicality to offer OU something it didn't really have last year: a jump ball threat on the outside. Combine that trio with the likes of Jer'Michael Carter, Mackenzie Alleyne, Jacob Jordan, Ivan Carreon, and some promising youngsters, and the Sooners have a chance to be an improved WR group this year.
#year #livingstone #oklahoma #player
2 months ago
Oklahoma Sooners quarterback John Mateer is coming off an inconsistent first season in Norman. Mateer joined the Sooners after a stellar season with the Washington State Cougars.
He was one of the most sought-after players in the portal before ultimately following offensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle to Norman. He got off to a great start, throwing for 1,215 yards, six touchdowns and three interceptions, while rushing for 190 yards and five scores in the first four games. The Sooners went 4-0 in that stretch, and Mateer was one of the leaders for the Heisman Trophy.
Mateer would suffer an injury to his throwing hand in that fourth game. That would require him to wear a brace on his thumb the rest of the season. He struggled, throwing for 1,670 yards, eight touchdowns and eight interceptions, while rushing for 241 yards and three scores in the final eight games of the season.
Despite those struggles down the stretch, ESPN's Paul Finebaum revealed he's a fan of Mateer.
"You know, (I) saw Mateer the other day, and I'm a fan," Finebaum said on WWLS The Sports Animal. "And if he can, you know, stay healthy, if (he) gets, you know, some protection and some weapons, which they didn't really have last year."
#season
He was one of the most sought-after players in the portal before ultimately following offensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle to Norman. He got off to a great start, throwing for 1,215 yards, six touchdowns and three interceptions, while rushing for 190 yards and five scores in the first four games. The Sooners went 4-0 in that stretch, and Mateer was one of the leaders for the Heisman Trophy.
Mateer would suffer an injury to his throwing hand in that fourth game. That would require him to wear a brace on his thumb the rest of the season. He struggled, throwing for 1,670 yards, eight touchdowns and eight interceptions, while rushing for 241 yards and three scores in the final eight games of the season.
Despite those struggles down the stretch, ESPN's Paul Finebaum revealed he's a fan of Mateer.
"You know, (I) saw Mateer the other day, and I'm a fan," Finebaum said on WWLS The Sports Animal. "And if he can, you know, stay healthy, if (he) gets, you know, some protection and some weapons, which they didn't really have last year."
#season
