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Posted

surprised they didn't talk up Blaylock or Guillory.. their guys on the youtube channels have been.. "absolute dawgs".. already dismissing last year's dawg in Tatum.  Think the Guillory love is because they aren't as deep as they keep saying they are in the secondary.   

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Posted

You get overheated enough that it damages your hypothalamus and you are fucked for life.  Your body will never be able to handle heat properly again and there is no way to fix it.  I know a guy who it happened to while in the army.  He was a ranger and was doing jungle survival training in Thailand.  He had a heatstroke and got put in the hospital.  He didn't want to have to repeat the training course, so he went back out too soon and had another one.  That one caused permanent damage and he had to be medically discharged.  He still has issues stemming from it to this day.  That's why the Texas staff was so careful with Wingo.

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Posted
1 hour ago, Frank Drebin said:

He has really redeemed himself.  He was basically Lattimer from the Program at OU.  I love a redemption story, so I kind of like the guy now.  He is also pretty good at his job in an industry where so many just mail it in.

He's carefully neutral, enthusiastic about the sport, and well prepared. It's funny seeing the hate on him on game threads as he calls the game professionally and is generally complimentary to Texas.

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Posted
37 minutes ago, texifornia said:

He's carefully neutral, enthusiastic about the sport, and well prepared. It's funny seeing the hate on him on game threads as he calls the game professionally and is generally complimentary to Texas.

Yeah, I love a good second-chance-redemption story too. We all need to believe that true rehabilitation is an attainable goal.  I only have one itsy-bitsy, teeny-tiny problem with Dvoracek: The rotten cocksucker's still alive. Other than that . . .

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Posted
4 hours ago, Frank Drebin said:

Venables has two losing seasons in 3 years.  He doesn’t recruit well.  I wouldn’t be optimistic if I was them.  Maybe arbuckle is a savant and mateer is great.  If so, they will still lose at least 4.  

They are in the bargaining phase of the 5 stages of grief. 

Posted
2 hours ago, texifornia said:

He's carefully neutral, enthusiastic about the sport, and well prepared. It's funny seeing the hate on him on game threads as he calls the game professionally and is generally complimentary to Texas.

My disdain for Dvoracek has nothing to do with his announcing.  I generally agree with you that he is pretty decent.  It's the whole almost killed a guy in an alcohol fueled roid rage thing that gets me.

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Posted
4 hours ago, closetojumping said:

Dvoracek is calling the Irish Bowl this weekend. He must really be confident and secure in his sobriety journey to feel okay on that island. Alcoholism isn't a concept that has reached the shores of the Emerald Isle yet, as far I've been able to discern. 

Hide the shillelaghs. 

Posted (edited)
3 hours ago, closetojumping said:

Look, I know I am so far in the tank on the notion that OU is wildly overrated this year that I probably can't be helped, but it's these fucking okie writers who are doing it to me. Spoilered is an article talking excitedly about 5 fast risers for OU in this fall's camp. If you've been following, it's unintentional hilarity.

Highlights:

-Each of the 5 "risers" is in a spot to play due to desperation.

-Logan Howland started due to injury last year at LT. He had surgery on his shoulder, missed the spring and was promptly pushed backwards on the depth chart. The great hope at RT was a transfer from juggernaut Western Carolina, dude named Simmons, and he's been hurt all camp. Enter Logan Howland at RT. He's rising again.

-Keonteziedeezie Lewis failed at UCLA and Wisconsin. He became a magical wizard for the rabid Salukis of Southern Illinois receiving for almost 800 yards against guys that wouldn't make high school rosters at 6A Texas programs. Now, because other spares they were relying on at WR are hurt, Lewis is "different, man" per the erudite Emmett Jones. Right.

-Ivan "Helobious" Carreon has barely been mentioned this past spring or fall camp, but OU's desperate at WR, so they're going to be forced to play him as well.

-We've covered the hilarity that is the Jaren Kanak journey. Hullaballoo, Kanak Kanak, Hullaballoo Kanak! OU people are convincing themselves that this guy is going to make a difference at TE in 2025. Their TE room is so putrid that a random transfer from Kennesaw State will be starting and they're going to utilize this Kanak idiot as a wildcard in some form behind him. 

-They're painting the insertion of Fasusi as the second coming of Kelvin Banks. After they throw his ass out of the recovery center, yank the IV feed from his dehydrated lower left arm, and push him back out onto the practice field for more reps and conditioning, that motherfucker better get back to earning the $750k Nagy is paying his ass. 

  Reveal hidden contents

Stock-risers: 5 Oklahoma offensive players who improved their standing during preseason practices

A look at five Oklahoma offensive players who improved their stock since the start of fall camp.

Tom GreenTom Green2 hrsVIP0

 

 

NORMAN — The preseason is just about wrapped for Oklahoma, as game prep is set to get underway for the Sooners with their season opener now nine days away.

Oklahoma has been practicing since July 31 in preparation for the 2025 season — a pivotal Year 4 for the program under head coach Brent Venables. After a disappointing inaugural season in the SEC, during which Oklahoma finished 6-7 and won just two games in league play, Venables and his program are in need of a bounceback this fall. The Sooners hope to accomplish that with a roster that features several returning pieces (including seven starters on defense) and big-time offseason additions, headlined by transfers John Mateer and Jaydn Ott on the offensive side.

While there are established pieces on both sides of the ball, Oklahoma is going to get contributions from other newcomers and lesser-known players as it tries to rebound from last year's debacle. As such, let's examine five players on each side of the ball who improved their stock this spring.

This list does not include established returning starters, and we tried our best to not focus on the same spring stock-risers we identified after spring practice (that means no Isaiah Sategna, Eddy Pierre-Louis, Reggie Powers III, Taylor Wein or Jacobe Johnson) or the five freshmen who have stood out this preseason that were highlighted on the site last weekend. Whether it was a newcomer fitting in nicely entering his first season at OU, young players progressing more than expected or returning pieces making a clear step forward or settling into new roles, here are five Sooners offensive players who improved their stock since the first day of fall camp. The defensive stock-risers will post in a separate story later today.

 

 

Logan Howland, right tackle

 

13235198.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images, USA TODAY Sports)

 

Logan Howland started six games at left tackle as a redshirt freshman last season in what was essentially baptism by fire for the former four-star prospect. While he endured some struggles in the SEC, he showed improvement late in the season and put some promising stuff on tape as a first-year starter. However, after the season he underwent a procedure to repair a torn labrum and subsequently missed spring practices.

Howland returned for fall camp, with offensive line coach Bill Bedenbaugh easing him and fellow redshirt sophomore Heath Ozaeta back into the swing of things. With Jacob Sexton and Michael Fasusi battling things out at left tackle, and with Derek Simmons missing considerable time during preseason practices, Howland flipped over to right tackle and has settled in nicely in that role in recent weeks. Simmons, the veteran transfer from Western Carolina, at one point seemed like a lock to start at right tackle this season, but considering how much time he missed this preseason, Howland has positioned himself to be the Sooners' answer at right tackle and could be the starter come Week 1.

Keontez Lewis, wide receiver

 

13235200.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images, USA TODAY Sports)

 

Keontez Lewis was one of five offseason transfer pickups for Oklahoma — and one of four who joined the program in the spring — as part of Emmett Jones' effort to reshape the wide receiver room. A transfer from Southern Illinois who has also made stops at UCLA and Wisconsin during his career, Lewis was hampered in the spring by a hamstring injury. This fall, Lewis has worked his way back into the discussion at wide receiver and has a chance to be a Week 1 starter for Oklahoma on the outside.

He has impressed teammates with his competitive nature (he had nine contested catches on 15 opportunities at Southern Illinois last season) and brings with him deep-ball capabilities that he showcased during his breakout season at Southern Illinois, when he posted a 96.7 receiving grade on throws 20-plus yards downfield, catching 11 of his 27 targets on those passes for 410 yards and a pair of touchdowns (37.3 yards per catch).

"Keontez is different, man," Jones said. "He's a dog. He loves to compete, loves to fight for the ball and is so smart when it comes to playing the wide receiver position. Some people ask me who he reminds me of, and he's cut from — I would say CeeDee (Lamb), Nic Anderson, those type of guys when it comes to just knowing the position, (being) smart, just playing fast and knowing what's going on in the back end, understanding route concept, spacing, (will) coach up guys on the field with him."

Ivan Carreon, wide receiver

 

13234980.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images, USA TODAY Sports)

 

Oklahoma's second-year wide receivers have flown somewhat under the radar this offseason — a bit lost in the mix between returning wideout Deion Burks, the five transfer additions and two freshmen who have made waves since the spring — but Ivan Carreonmuch like fellow sophomore Zion Kearney, has come on strong during fall practices. The 6-foot-6, 224-pound sophomore got his feet wet in the SEC last season, as he was among the true freshmen thrust into action due to the array of injuries the Sooners endured at wide receiver, and he finished the year on a high note with seven receptions for 72 yards in the Armed Forces Bowl.

That experience as a true freshman benefited Carreon, who has looked more confident this fall while providing a big-bodied target with an impressive catch radius. It remains to be seen just how he'll factor into a crowded wide receiver room -- with Burks, Isaiah Sategna, Keontez Lewis, freshman Elijah Thomas and Kearney among those pushing for starting roles come Week 1 -- but it's clear Carreon is in a much better spot than he was even in the spring.

"Just (been focused on) playing faster," Carreon said. "I've got a big size. People don't think I can really move as much. So, just working on being more explosive, getting faster, working on my route details, and just playing with more confidence than I was as a freshman." 

Jaren Kanak, tight end

 

13235220.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: NATHAN J. FISH/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK, USA TODAY Sports)

 

Making a position change is seldom easy, especially when it's switching sides of the ball and after spending three seasons playing linebacker. Yet Jaren Kanak has embraced his move to tight end this offseason, and now after exceeding early expectations, the senior is poised to have a real role at tight end for Oklahoma's offense this fall.

The Sooners' tight end room is still a big question mark going into the season, with no proven pieces at this level in a room that features a converted linebacker, a Division-II transfer in Will Huggins, two Group of Five transfers in Carson Kent and John Locke Jr., a true freshman in Trynae Washington and a pair of oft-injured veterans in Kaden Helms and Kade McIntyre. Kanak may not earn the starting job (Kent seems to be the favorite heading into Week 1), but the 6-foot-2, 232-pounder figures to have a role — likely as an H-back type who can make things happen with the ball in his hands and provide a level of physicality as a blocker, though that last part is still a work in progress (albeit not for lack of effort).

"I've always been a physical football player, I like to say, and obviously, being undersized at the position that I play, I kind of got to bring that edge of having a little bit of grit to me and a little bit of aggression," Kanak said. "And I have natural leverage as coach (Joe Jon) Finley says. It's a nice way of calling me short. But I have very natural leverage, so I can get up and under guys and really be physical with them."

Michael Fasusi, left tackle

 

13205034.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: JAMES D. JACKSON, 247Sports)

 

We tried to avoid overlapping with our list of freshman standouts from fall camp, but the progress of true freshman Michael Fasusi this preseason has been hard to overlook. Fasusi has been impressive since he stepped foot on Oklahoma's campus back in January, and the former five-star prospect has only continued to improve under the tutelage of Bill Bedenbaugh. The 6-foot-5, 309-pounder has looked every bit the part of an instant-impact newcomer, and he earned plenty of first-team reps this fall while Jacob Sexton missed some time due to injury.

With Sexton working his way back into the fold, it's unclear who will earn the starting job in Week 1, but Fasusi's development in his first eight months on campus has given the Sooners confidence that he can execute at a high level as a true freshman. One way or another, Fasusi -- who landed on the 247Sports preseason Freshman All-America team -- will play this season, whether as a starter or a key rotational piece.

"You know I hate to put unreal expectations on him, you know me, I'm an honest dude," Bedenbaugh said. "I haven't had — and we've had good players, really good, guys that are All-Pros, (but) I haven't had anybody like them (Fasusi and freshman Ryan Fodje) at that age, just overall. They aren't afraid. They aren't afraid who they're blocking. Whether Fasusi gets his ass kicked by R Mason (Thomas) or not, he ain't scared. He's going out there to win…. Both of them just turned 18 three weeks ago. That's it, they're 18 years old. So are they going to make mistakes? Certainly, they are, you know what I mean? It's really, at this point, pretty impressive where they are for that age and being here eight months."

 

Tom green is a known absurdist.  This fits in well with his show skits. 
 

*should have multi quoted or edited the above. Sorry bout that. 

Edited by Pato del Muerto
Posted
4 hours ago, closetojumping said:

Look, I know I am so far in the tank on the notion that OU is wildly overrated this year that I probably can't be helped, but it's these fucking okie writers who are doing it to me. Spoilered is an article talking excitedly about 5 fast risers for OU in this fall's camp. If you've been following, it's unintentional hilarity.

Highlights:

-Each of the 5 "risers" is in a spot to play due to desperation.

-Logan Howland started due to injury last year at LT. He had surgery on his shoulder, missed the spring and was promptly pushed backwards on the depth chart. The great hope at RT was a transfer from juggernaut Western Carolina, dude named Simmons, and he's been hurt all camp. Enter Logan Howland at RT. He's rising again.

-Keonteziedeezie Lewis failed at UCLA and Wisconsin. He became a magical wizard for the rabid Salukis of Southern Illinois receiving for almost 800 yards against guys that wouldn't make high school rosters at 6A Texas programs. Now, because other spares they were relying on at WR are hurt, Lewis is "different, man" per the erudite Emmett Jones. Right.

-Ivan "Helobious" Carreon has barely been mentioned this past spring or fall camp, but OU's desperate at WR, so they're going to be forced to play him as well.

-We've covered the hilarity that is the Jaren Kanak journey. Hullaballoo, Kanak Kanak, Hullaballoo Kanak! OU people are convincing themselves that this guy is going to make a difference at TE in 2025. Their TE room is so putrid that a random transfer from Kennesaw State will be starting and they're going to utilize this Kanak idiot as a wildcard in some form behind him. 

-They're painting the insertion of Fasusi as the second coming of Kelvin Banks. After they throw his ass out of the recovery center, yank the IV feed from his dehydrated lower left arm, and push him back out onto the practice field for more reps and conditioning, that motherfucker better get back to earning the $750k Nagy is paying his ass. 

  Reveal hidden contents

Stock-risers: 5 Oklahoma offensive players who improved their standing during preseason practices

A look at five Oklahoma offensive players who improved their stock since the start of fall camp.

Tom GreenTom Green2 hrsVIP0

 

 

NORMAN — The preseason is just about wrapped for Oklahoma, as game prep is set to get underway for the Sooners with their season opener now nine days away.

Oklahoma has been practicing since July 31 in preparation for the 2025 season — a pivotal Year 4 for the program under head coach Brent Venables. After a disappointing inaugural season in the SEC, during which Oklahoma finished 6-7 and won just two games in league play, Venables and his program are in need of a bounceback this fall. The Sooners hope to accomplish that with a roster that features several returning pieces (including seven starters on defense) and big-time offseason additions, headlined by transfers John Mateer and Jaydn Ott on the offensive side.

While there are established pieces on both sides of the ball, Oklahoma is going to get contributions from other newcomers and lesser-known players as it tries to rebound from last year's debacle. As such, let's examine five players on each side of the ball who improved their stock this spring.

This list does not include established returning starters, and we tried our best to not focus on the same spring stock-risers we identified after spring practice (that means no Isaiah Sategna, Eddy Pierre-Louis, Reggie Powers III, Taylor Wein or Jacobe Johnson) or the five freshmen who have stood out this preseason that were highlighted on the site last weekend. Whether it was a newcomer fitting in nicely entering his first season at OU, young players progressing more than expected or returning pieces making a clear step forward or settling into new roles, here are five Sooners offensive players who improved their stock since the first day of fall camp. The defensive stock-risers will post in a separate story later today.

 

 

Logan Howland, right tackle

 

13235198.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images, USA TODAY Sports)

 

Logan Howland started six games at left tackle as a redshirt freshman last season in what was essentially baptism by fire for the former four-star prospect. While he endured some struggles in the SEC, he showed improvement late in the season and put some promising stuff on tape as a first-year starter. However, after the season he underwent a procedure to repair a torn labrum and subsequently missed spring practices.

Howland returned for fall camp, with offensive line coach Bill Bedenbaugh easing him and fellow redshirt sophomore Heath Ozaeta back into the swing of things. With Jacob Sexton and Michael Fasusi battling things out at left tackle, and with Derek Simmons missing considerable time during preseason practices, Howland flipped over to right tackle and has settled in nicely in that role in recent weeks. Simmons, the veteran transfer from Western Carolina, at one point seemed like a lock to start at right tackle this season, but considering how much time he missed this preseason, Howland has positioned himself to be the Sooners' answer at right tackle and could be the starter come Week 1.

Keontez Lewis, wide receiver

 

13235200.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images, USA TODAY Sports)

 

Keontez Lewis was one of five offseason transfer pickups for Oklahoma — and one of four who joined the program in the spring — as part of Emmett Jones' effort to reshape the wide receiver room. A transfer from Southern Illinois who has also made stops at UCLA and Wisconsin during his career, Lewis was hampered in the spring by a hamstring injury. This fall, Lewis has worked his way back into the discussion at wide receiver and has a chance to be a Week 1 starter for Oklahoma on the outside.

He has impressed teammates with his competitive nature (he had nine contested catches on 15 opportunities at Southern Illinois last season) and brings with him deep-ball capabilities that he showcased during his breakout season at Southern Illinois, when he posted a 96.7 receiving grade on throws 20-plus yards downfield, catching 11 of his 27 targets on those passes for 410 yards and a pair of touchdowns (37.3 yards per catch).

"Keontez is different, man," Jones said. "He's a dog. He loves to compete, loves to fight for the ball and is so smart when it comes to playing the wide receiver position. Some people ask me who he reminds me of, and he's cut from — I would say CeeDee (Lamb), Nic Anderson, those type of guys when it comes to just knowing the position, (being) smart, just playing fast and knowing what's going on in the back end, understanding route concept, spacing, (will) coach up guys on the field with him."

Ivan Carreon, wide receiver

 

13234980.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images, USA TODAY Sports)

 

Oklahoma's second-year wide receivers have flown somewhat under the radar this offseason — a bit lost in the mix between returning wideout Deion Burks, the five transfer additions and two freshmen who have made waves since the spring — but Ivan Carreonmuch like fellow sophomore Zion Kearney, has come on strong during fall practices. The 6-foot-6, 224-pound sophomore got his feet wet in the SEC last season, as he was among the true freshmen thrust into action due to the array of injuries the Sooners endured at wide receiver, and he finished the year on a high note with seven receptions for 72 yards in the Armed Forces Bowl.

That experience as a true freshman benefited Carreon, who has looked more confident this fall while providing a big-bodied target with an impressive catch radius. It remains to be seen just how he'll factor into a crowded wide receiver room -- with Burks, Isaiah Sategna, Keontez Lewis, freshman Elijah Thomas and Kearney among those pushing for starting roles come Week 1 -- but it's clear Carreon is in a much better spot than he was even in the spring.

"Just (been focused on) playing faster," Carreon said. "I've got a big size. People don't think I can really move as much. So, just working on being more explosive, getting faster, working on my route details, and just playing with more confidence than I was as a freshman." 

Jaren Kanak, tight end

 

13235220.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: NATHAN J. FISH/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK, USA TODAY Sports)

 

Making a position change is seldom easy, especially when it's switching sides of the ball and after spending three seasons playing linebacker. Yet Jaren Kanak has embraced his move to tight end this offseason, and now after exceeding early expectations, the senior is poised to have a real role at tight end for Oklahoma's offense this fall.

The Sooners' tight end room is still a big question mark going into the season, with no proven pieces at this level in a room that features a converted linebacker, a Division-II transfer in Will Huggins, two Group of Five transfers in Carson Kent and John Locke Jr., a true freshman in Trynae Washington and a pair of oft-injured veterans in Kaden Helms and Kade McIntyre. Kanak may not earn the starting job (Kent seems to be the favorite heading into Week 1), but the 6-foot-2, 232-pounder figures to have a role — likely as an H-back type who can make things happen with the ball in his hands and provide a level of physicality as a blocker, though that last part is still a work in progress (albeit not for lack of effort).

"I've always been a physical football player, I like to say, and obviously, being undersized at the position that I play, I kind of got to bring that edge of having a little bit of grit to me and a little bit of aggression," Kanak said. "And I have natural leverage as coach (Joe Jon) Finley says. It's a nice way of calling me short. But I have very natural leverage, so I can get up and under guys and really be physical with them."

Michael Fasusi, left tackle

 

13205034.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: JAMES D. JACKSON, 247Sports)

 

We tried to avoid overlapping with our list of freshman standouts from fall camp, but the progress of true freshman Michael Fasusi this preseason has been hard to overlook. Fasusi has been impressive since he stepped foot on Oklahoma's campus back in January, and the former five-star prospect has only continued to improve under the tutelage of Bill Bedenbaugh. The 6-foot-5, 309-pounder has looked every bit the part of an instant-impact newcomer, and he earned plenty of first-team reps this fall while Jacob Sexton missed some time due to injury.

With Sexton working his way back into the fold, it's unclear who will earn the starting job in Week 1, but Fasusi's development in his first eight months on campus has given the Sooners confidence that he can execute at a high level as a true freshman. One way or another, Fasusi -- who landed on the 247Sports preseason Freshman All-America team -- will play this season, whether as a starter or a key rotational piece.

"You know I hate to put unreal expectations on him, you know me, I'm an honest dude," Bedenbaugh said. "I haven't had — and we've had good players, really good, guys that are All-Pros, (but) I haven't had anybody like them (Fasusi and freshman Ryan Fodje) at that age, just overall. They aren't afraid. They aren't afraid who they're blocking. Whether Fasusi gets his ass kicked by R Mason (Thomas) or not, he ain't scared. He's going out there to win…. Both of them just turned 18 three weeks ago. That's it, they're 18 years old. So are they going to make mistakes? Certainly, they are, you know what I mean? It's really, at this point, pretty impressive where they are for that age and being here eight months."

 

This is all inject into my veins material, but if I see an OU TE do anything against us much less convert a crucial down or TD, I'm likely to have a grand mal from you shitting on their TE room so convincingly. 

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Posted
41 minutes ago, BurgleBro said:

This is all inject into my veins material, but if I see an OU TE do anything against us much less convert a crucial down or TD, I'm likely to have a grand mal from you shitting on their TE room so convincingly. 

One week until kickoff, and we still don't know who the fuck OU's savior is gonna throw it to.

Excellent

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Posted
On SoonerScoop, someone checked with the Fasusi camp, and the kid got a couple of IVs last night and expects to be back at practice, soon. (I think they are being optimistic). 
 
Also, their indoor facility doesn’t have AC, yet. 

Why don’t they just put the wheels back on, remove the cinder blocks and hop on the highway, 55 AC all day! Problem solved.
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Posted

Spoilered below is a more credible argument about 5 defensive risers for OU in their fall camp. Not surprising given that the defense will actually be good whereas the offense has a lot to prove and has basically zero depth. 

Highlights:

-The 5 star dude with the Nigerian last name isn’t mentioned and he’s legitimately turning into a massive bust. 

-They really need one of the CBs they mention to actually be a sound contributor. Pick your poison with a true freshman that has some talent or a system guy that has never cracked the two deep. 

-Stone is interesting. We’ve talked about him here. Their writers have been spinning the notion of the switch turning on, but he’s not pushing a starter out of the way and he sucked in the spring. 

Spoiler

Stock-risers: 5 Oklahoma defensive players who have improved their standing during preseason practices

A look at five Oklahoma defensive players who improved their stock since the start of fall camp.

Tom GreenTOM GREEN8 hrsVIP5

On Now

Oklahoma Position Preview: Defensive Ends

 

 

NORMAN — The finishing touches are being put on the preseason for Oklahoma, as game prep is set to get underway for the Sooners with their season opener now nine days away.

Oklahoma has been practicing since July 31 in preparation for the 2025 season — a pivotal Year 4 for the program under head coach Brent Venables. After a disappointing inaugural season in the SEC, during which Oklahoma finished 6-7 and won just two games in league play, Venables and his program are in need of a bounceback this fall. The Sooners hope to accomplish that with a roster that features several returning pieces (including seven starters on defense) and big-time offseason additions, headlined by transfers John Mateer and Jaydn Ott on the offensive side.

While there are established pieces on both sides of the ball, Oklahoma is going to get contributions from other newcomers and lesser-known players as it tries to rebound from last year's debacle. As such, let's examine five players on each side of the ball who improved their stock this spring.

Earlier, we detailed five offensive players who improved their stock this preseason. Now, it's time for the defensive side of things. This list does not include established returning starters, and we tried our best to not focus on the same spring stock-risers we identified after spring practice (that means no Isaiah Sategna, Eddy Pierre-Louis, Reggie Powers III, Taylor Wein or Jacobe Johnson) or or the five freshmen who have stood out this preseason that we highlighted on the site last weekend. Whether it was a newcomer fitting in nicely entering his first season at OU, young players progressing more than expected or returning pieces making a clear step forward or settling into new roles, here are five Sooners defensive players who improved their stock since the first day of fall camp.

 

 

DANNY OKOYE, DEFENSIVE END

 

13206948.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: JAMES D. JACKSON, 247Sports)

 

When Brent Venables joined Toby Rowland for his season preview show earlier this week, the pair ran through a couple handfuls of Oklahoma players, rapid-fire style, with Venables offering a couple sentences on each Sooner. Among those listed was Danny Okoye, the redshirt freshman edge rusher who has taken a big leap since last season, when he took a redshirt while making just two appearances and logging nine snaps on defense.

Venables quickly highlighted Okoye's "untapped potential," adding that the Sooners "can't wait to release him (on) the SEC" this season. That was a telling proclamation from OU's fourth-year head coach as he prepares to step back into the role of defensive play-caller this fall. The 6-foot-3, 251-pound Okoye looks like he's chiseled from marble, up 6 pounds from a year ago and apparently turning a corner in his development as he vies for reps in a tantalizing defensive ends rotation this season. Okoye, who has been described as one of the best all-around athletes on the team, isn't expected to start, but he should find himself a role behind All-SEC performer R Mason Thomas in the rotation off the edge.

"He's a madman," defensive ends coach Miguel Chavis said. "When he knows what he's doing, he's playing really fast. Just an unbelievable young man, and as handsome, as gifted, as talented. as likable and as talented as he is, he's a better person.  It's a joy coaching him. He's going to be a household name pretty soon; I mean that."

DEVON JORDAN, CORNERBACK

 

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Oklahoma has leaned into a youth movement at cornerback this offseason, with Gentry Williams as the old head in a room that's littered with freshmen and second-year players. Among those second-year defensive backs is Devon Jordan, the sophomore from Tulsa who got a taste of the SEC last season in appearances against Texas and South Carolina midseason.

This preseason, though, the 5-foot-11 corner has been impressive while making the most of his opportunities in assistant coach Jay Valai's room. With Eli Bowen sidelined due to an ankle injury that has relegated him to a protective boot throughout preseason practices, Jordan has been one of the top performers when it comes to pushing for a starting job on the season-opening depth chart. Don't be surprised if Jordan is on the top line with Williams, his fellow Tulsa native, when the Sooners release their Week 1 two-deep next week.

"He understands scheme, understanding his responsibility and his process and then being violent within his processes too," Valai said. "I would say scheme starts the play, but players make the plays come alive, though. He's really bought into that. Technically sound but aggressive, too. Not playing with confidence but playing with conviction. Big-picture perspective, understanding post arrows, everything on the football field. His gain of knowledge of the game has been phenomenal. He's weaponized it."

COURTLAND GUILLORY, CORNERBACK

 

 

13215609.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: JAMES D. JACKSON, 247Sports)

 

Courtland Guillory was among the freshman standouts highlighted last weekend, so this is a bit of a double-dip, but the 6-foot, 183-pounder out of Houston has been a hot topic throughout the preseason. Guillory has been a favorite of Brent Venables all offseason, and the former four-star cornerback has shown why during fall practices while making his case for a starting job at the beginning of the season.

Guillory, like Devon Jordan, has been among those pushing for Eli Bowen's spot while the former Freshman All-American has been on the shelf. Guillory has excelled in one-on-one situations and carries himself with the confidence of a proven veteran—despite having yet to play a single snap at the college level. If Jordan isn't atop the depth chart next week, don't be surprised if it's Guillory in that spot instead. Regardless of who starts against Illinois State, Guillory is sure to see plenty of opportunities in the cornerback rotation this season.

"He's not confident, he's convicted," cornerbacks coach Jay Valai said. "He has no flinch. Whoever the best receiver is, he wants to line up against him. He sees Deion Burksout there, he says, 'I want Deion.' Whoever the best guy is, he wants them. And, for me, having that no-flinch mindset or mentality, I know when it's the fourth quarter or the game is on the line, he ain't going to hesitate. Him doing that, but backing it up with his work and process, showing up here early in the morning at 7 a.m. when nobody's in here to watch extra film — just understand the details, how we teach man-to-man, Cover 2, Cover 3, hot coverage. Everything we do, he's been really good at understanding the why behind it, too. He's not memorizing, he's understanding, just like Eli last year. It's a big thing. A lot of times, you ask a young guy what a Cover 3 is, they have no idea. Understanding the why, that's really where his game has come along."

DAVID STONE, DEFENSIVE TACKLE

 

 

13234994.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,off (Photo: NATHAN J. FISH/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images, USA TODAY Sports)

 

David Stone arrived at Oklahoma last year with unreal hype as the prized signee in the Sooners' 2024 class — a five-star prospect who was a top-10 overall player in the country coming out of IMG Academy. But Year 1 in Norman didn't live up to the expectations for Stone, who appeared in every game but logged just 94 defensive snaps as a true freshman, finishing the season with six total tackles, including one sack, with seven total pressures.

Stone seemed to turn a corner in the spring, but then in April he abruptly entered the transfer portal. It was a weekend-long saga that, ultimately, came to a resolution that resulted in Stone withdrawing from the portal and reaffirming his desire to continue his career at Oklahoma. Since that weekend, teammates have noticed a different Stone over the last four months. He has rededicated himself to the film room, spending ample time with defensive tackles coach Todd Bates, while becoming a more vocal leader and holding both teammates and himself accountable. Most importantly, Stone's efforts off the field have started to show on the field, as he has put together a strong preseason while not just establishing himself in Oklahoma's talented defensive tackles rotation but "fighting" for a starting job, according to Brent Venables. If the 6-foot-3, 310-pounder can continue on this trajectory, he'll have a chance to fulfill his five-star potential and be a true difference maker at the line of scrimmage in the SEC.

"He's just continued, man, been a model of consistency," Bates said. "And the work he's put in — the work, it'll show up and follow you like a shadow. Whatever you do or lack thereof, it's going to show. If you put it in, it's going to show. And he's putting it in like a coach."

OWEN HEINECKE, LINEBACKER

 

13235608.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images, USA TODAY Sports)

 

Oklahoma's linebacker depth was somewhat of a concern this offseason, with the Sooners returning both Kip Lewis and Kobie McKinziewhile shifting Sammy Omosigho from Cheetah to inside linebacker. The big question revolved around who would emerge as the fourth linebacker in that rotation, with Oklahoma State transfer Kendal Daniels a popular candidate this offseason.

While Daniels has that flexibility to play inside — and very well could see reps there this season — he has solidified himself at the Cheetah position and is likely to be the team's started in that role. Enter, Owen Heinecke, the former walk-on out of Tulsawho has primarily been a special teams contributor the last two seasons. The redshirt junior has had a strong showing in preseason practices, with Brent Venables shouting him out as having "as good a camp as anyone" through the team's first six practices earlier this month. The 6-foot-1, 227-pounder has not only positioned himself to see the field more this season, but he could very well be listed on the two-deep at linebacker when Oklahoma unveils its season-opening depth chart next week.

"He's played really, really well," Venables said. "…You see a lot of hard work in the summer. He's super instinctive, very athletic, explosive tackler, good in space, excellent blitzer. He's got really nice instincts now on the ball."

 

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Posted

SIAP...

Oklahoma quarterback John Mateer's NIL salary revealed

image.thumb.jpeg.577dba336303146e0bf12fd08624aa33.jpeg

Originally posted on SI  |  By JC Shelton  |  Updated Aug 21, 2025 

Quote

Highly-touted transfer quarterback John Mateer is expected to be paid well at Oklahoma after his significant move from Washington State ahead of the 2025 college football season.

After backing up No. 1 2025 NFL Draft pick Cam Ward, Mateer took over the starting role for the Cougars as a first-year starter in 2024. The former three-star certainly exceeded expectations, totaling 44 touchdowns with 3,139 passing yards and another 826 yards on the ground in 12 games.

Mateer (6-foot-1, 224 pounds) ultimately decided to enter the transfer portal ahead of his redshirt junior campaign. And it was the Sooners who landed the talented passer after bringing former Washington State offensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle.

Mateer's breakout season and high-profile role at a major program have seemingly paid off, as the Little, Elm, Texas native is expected to make between $2.5 and $3 million in NIL payments this year, according to On3's Pete Nakos.

Mateer ranks 13th in in college sports with an On3 NIL valuation of $2.7 million. He was recently named a brand sponsor for Beats by Dre as a part of the "Beats Elite" rollout.

Oklahoma and head coach Brent Venables needed an answer at quarterback following a disastrous first season (6-7) in the SEC. The Sooners finished 97th in total offense and 119th passing offense in 2024.

The challenge for Mateer is adjusting to a new program, teammates and head coach, all while holding a significant amount of weight on his shoulders to find success. Not having to learn a new offense, though, should help ease that transition.

Mateer and Co. will open the 2025 season at home against Illinois State on Aug. 30 at 6 p.m. ET (ESPN+).

 

Posted
6 hours ago, Pato del Muerto said:

Tom green is a known absurdist.  This fits in well with his show skits. 
 

*should have multi quoted or edited the above. Sorry bout that. 

Didn't know he was an OU 9.95er now. Makes sense.

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Posted
4 hours ago, LTtxfan said:

SIAP...

Oklahoma quarterback John Mateer's NIL salary revealed

image.thumb.jpeg.577dba336303146e0bf12fd08624aa33.jpeg

Originally posted on SI  |  By JC Shelton  |  Updated Aug 21, 2025 

 

That puts him within $500k of Leavitt and Allar.

I think I'd pay for the premium upgrade all things being equal.

Posted
10 hours ago, BurgleBro said:

This is all inject into my veins material, but if I see an OU TE do anything against us much less convert a crucial down or TD, I'm likely to have a grand mal from you shitting on their TE room so convincingly. 

Careful man. If you have a grand mal, that slates you as a starter for OU's OL. 

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Posted

Sooners Illustrated has published their depth chart prediction for the reason. It's spoilered below and it's a long scroll but a pretty straightforward read. They're not just throwing out wild guesses, this DC is based on practice observations and information gathering. I mock them often for their homerism, but that's part of their job. I actually think they do a good job as a group in terms publishing useful material.

Highlights:

-They're having to come clean at a lot of positions that the hype they've been putting on some guys isn't going to materialize, in many instances due to injury. 

-Ott is still struggling with a shoulder injury but they plan on starting him next Saturday.

-Jaydan Gibson, after all of the hype of being out of a boot and being ready at some point during camp, still isn't working out and they don't even bother mentioning him in this update. I consider that dude to be a ghost at this point. 

-The most hype transfer from UAPB ever, Javonnie Gibson, will not be starting the season suited out and is not on the chart either. 

-Venables' Center choice appears to have won the battle versus the guy that Nagy paid from Stanford, someone he's told people will be starting. 

-Just look at TE. Some dude from Kennesaw State. Another guy from Pittsburg State (KS). Jaren KanekKanek. 

-The Keontez Lewis dude wasn't mentioned as a factor in the WR corps until literally this week. He's starting. 

-Eli Bowen isn't listed.

-The Adebawore 5 star Edge is mentioned only in the vein that he may show up at some point. A guy named Taylor Wein, who was expected to be a garbage time player, is ahead of him on the depth chart.

-The defense is going to have to do a lot of work this season if this is a team with a record above 7-5. 

Spoiler

Final Oklahoma football depth chart projection for 2025 season

One final depth chart projection for Oklahoma football's offense, defense and special teams with the Sooners' 2025 season opener a little more than a week away.

Tom GreenTom Green83 minsVIP4

 

 

NORMAN — The hay is in the barn, and Oklahoma is turning its attention to the start of the 2025 season.

For the last three-plus weeks, the Sooners have been prepping for what is shaping up to be a pivotal Year 4 for the program under head coach Brent Venables. Oklahoma is fresh off a disappointing first season in the SEC, in which the team finished 6-7 for the second time in three years, and is aiming for a big-time bounceback this fall. Venables is back in the saddle as the Sooners' defensive coordinator, taking over play-calling for a unit that has made strides in each of his first three years as head coach, while 29-year-old rising star Ben Arbuckle is charged with resuscitating the offense with his quarterback, John Mateer.

While Oklahoma returns seven regular starters from last year's defense, several positions have been up for grabs this preseason — with other returning starters fighting to maintain their roles. Offensively, there have been few sure things aside from Mateer's standing as QB1.

Oklahoma will roll out its official Week 1 depth chart ahead of Venables' weekly press conference Tuesday, but as the coaching staff puts the finishing touches on that initial two-deep this weekend, Sooners Illustrated is here to take a final stab at projecting OU's season-opening depth chart for the offense, defense and special teams. These projections are based on observations from available practice windows, information gleaned from speaking with Venables, six OU assistant coaches and 37 Sooners players over the last three-plus weeks, as well as feedback from other sources around the program.

So, with that being said, let's dive in…

 
 

OFFENSE

 

13238012.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: DOUG HOKE/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images, USA TODAY Sports)

 

QUARTERBACK

-- John Mateer, redshirt junior

-- Michael Hawkins Jr., sophomore

The 411: After starring at Washington State under Ben Arbuckle last season, Mateer followed his OC to Oklahoma and is set to take over as QB1. One of the most productive quarterbacks in the country last season, Mateer will try to replicate his success with the Sooners this fall. Since arriving in January, he has worked to leave his mark on the program and take ownership of the team—and by all accounts has. Hawkins, after starting a few games as a true freshman last season, has developed well thus far under Arbuckle and will serve as Oklahoma's backup.

 

RUNNING BACK

-- Jaydn Ott, senior

-- Jovantae Barnes, senior

The 411: Ott, the transfer from Cal, was Oklahoma's big splash addition during the spring portal window. Though he missed some time this preseason, he should be good to go for the opener and take over the lead role in the Sooners' backfield. While Ott was recovering from a shoulder issue for a portion of camp, Barnes handled primary reps with the offense. The real intrigue here is who will be No. 3 in the rotation to start the season after Xavier Robinson and Taylor Tatum both missed time this preseason, with freshman Tory Blaylock making the most of his quality reps and surging during camp.

 

 

 

 

13218731.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: DOUG HOKE/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images, USA TODAY Sports)

 

WIDE RECEIVER

-- Isaiah Sategna, redshirt junior

-- Zion Kearney, sophomore

The 411: Sategna, the transfer from Arkansas, has been tabbed as Mr. Reliable for Oklahoma this preseason while being the most consistent wide receiver in the room and establishing a strong rapport with Mateer. He should have a starting role essentially locked up, whether it's on the outside or in the slot. Kearney has been impressive this fall too, though he missed some time due to a concussion early in camp. When healthy, Kearney is a big-bodied playmaker who could stretch the field in Arbuckle's system.

 

WIDE RECEIVER

-- Keontez Lewis, redshirt senior

-- Elijah Thomas, freshman

The 411: This spot would likely belong to Javonnie Gibson, but the Arkansas-Pine Bluff transfer is still on the mend after an April leg injury. While he's expected back in the coming weeks, his absence opened the door for other candidates this preseason. Lewis was hampered in the spring due to a hamstring injury but has put together a strong fall while impressing teammates and coaches with his competitiveness and willingness to fight for contested catches. The Southern Illinois transfer, whom receivers coach Emmett Jones likened to CeeDee Lamb and Nic Anderson, seems like the favorite to be OU's other outside receiver when it opens the season, though Thomas — a true freshman — has had a quality fall as well, drawing comparisons to New York Giants wideout Malik Nabors while impressing with his explosiveness and natural pass-catching ability.

 

 

 

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SLOT RECEIVER

-- Deion Burks, redshirt senior

-- Jacob Jordan, sophomore OR

-- Josiah Martin, sophomore

The 411: Burks was supposed to be Oklahoma's prized portal addition a year ago, but he was limited to just five games due to injury last season. After deciding to come back for another year, he has solidified himself as the leader of Oklahoma's receiving corps and sure-fire starter, likely in the slot (though, like Sategna, he can play both inside and outside). Behind him, look for either Jordan, who made the most of his opportunities as a freshman walk-on last season, or Martin, the transfer from Cal.

 

TIGHT END

-- Carson Kent, redshirt junior

-- Will Huggins, redshirt senior OR

-- Jaren Kanak, senior

The 411: Tight end remains the most unproven position on Oklahoma's roster and the biggest question mark on the offense entering the season. Kent, the transfer from Kennesaw State, gets the nod here for the top spot as the most well-rounded option, but expect both Huggins and Kanak to play roles in the offense, with Kanak — the converted linebacker — likely serving as an H-back type who could make for an intriguing playmaker with the ball in his hands. Kaden Helms should also have some opportunities after he recovers from a hand injury he sustained early in the preseason.

 

 

 

13238020.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images, USA TODAY Sports)

 

LEFT TACKLE

-- Jacob Sexton, senior

-- Michael Fasusi, freshman

The 411: Sexton and Fasusi have been pushing each other for the job at left tackle, with Fasusi getting his share of first-team reps while Sexton missed some time earlier in the preseason. While Fasusi will play this season and have a real role in the rotation up front, Sexton — who has settled in at tackle after playing both tackle and guard last season — gets the nod for the starting job heading into Week 1.

 

LEFT GUARD

-- Heath Ozaeta, redshirt sophomore

-- Eddy Pierre-Louis, sophomore

The 411: Pierre-Louis was the hot name through the offseason and at the start of camp, but he's still honing his craft and working to strike a balance between his physicality and his precision at left guard. Meanwhile, Ozaeta has settled back into things in recent weeks after starting eight games last season but missing spring and much of summer due to a January shoulder procedure.

 

 

 

13238022.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: Andrew Dieb-Imagn Images, USA TODAY Sports)

 

CENTER

-- Troy Everett, redshirt senior

-- Jake Maikkula, redshirt junior

The 411: Everett has made the most of his first full offseason with Oklahoma (he was a summer addition prior to the 2023 season, and he sustained a knee injury in the spring that cost him the start of the 2024 season), developing into the unquestioned leader of the Sooners' offensive line. He should be back in his role as starting center, though Maikkula has made a strong push since transferring in from Stanford this summer. The competition, it seems, has brought out the best in both players.

 

RIGHT GUARD

-- Febechi Nwaiwu, redshirt senior

-- Ryan Fodje, freshman

The 411: Nwaiwu started all 13 games at right guard for OU last season and led all offensive linemen in snaps after transferring in from North Texas a year ago. While he was uneven as times last fall, Nwaiwu has been the Sooners' most consistent offensive lineman during the preseason and seems to have taken his game up a notch heading into Year 2 with the program. While Nwaiwu should hold onto his starting job at right guard, Fodje has looked good as a true freshman, with offensive line coach Bill Bedenbaugh saying Fodje and Fasusi are unlike any other freshmen he has coached during his decade-plus with the program. Fodje will play this season; it's just a matter of how much and what that role will look like.

 

RIGHT TACKLE

-- Logan Howland, redshirt sophomore

-- Derek Simmons, redshirt senior

The 411: After transferring in from Western Carolina, Simmons was the longstanding favorite to take over the open right tackle spot on Oklahoma's offensive line. That changed over the course of fall camp, as Simmons missed significant time due to a concussion. That opened the door for Howland, who started six games at left tackle last season before undergoing a labrum procedure in January. Howland was eased back into action this fall, and with Sexton and Fasusi looking good at left tackle, he switched over to the right side and took advantage of the opening at right tackle. Simmons could very well return to the starting role at some point, but based on how much time he missed this preseason, I expect Howland to get the nod heading into Week 1.

DEFENSE

 

 

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DEFENSIVE END

-- R Mason Thomas, senior

-- Danny Okoye, redshirt freshman

The 411: Thomas is back after an All-SEC season as a junior, and he'll lead the Sooners' efforts off the edge while trying to play himself into the first round of next year's NFL Draft. Behind him, Okoye has come on strong this preseason after redshirting last year. Arguably Oklahoma's most athletic player, Okoye should see quality reps this season behind Thomas, with Venables saying earlier in the week that the Sooners are eager to unleash the 6-foot-3, 251-pounder on the SEC this fall.

 

DEFENSIVE TACKLE

-- Jayden Jackson, sophomore

-- Gracen Halton, senior

The 411: Jackson earned a starting job this time last year as a true freshman, becoming the first freshman defensive lineman to start for Oklahoma since 2001. He made the most of it with a Freshman All-America campaign, and though he missed spring due to a January shoulder procedure, he has picked up this preseason right where he left off last year. Halton, back for his senior year, missed significant time during the preseason out of precaution due to injury but should be back in the fray for the start of the season. If Oklahoma decides to hold him back in Week 1 (with sights set on making sure he's 100% for the Michigan game in Week 2), expect either Markus Strong to be the likely fill-in.

 

 

 

13234586.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: DOUG HOKE/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images, USA TODAY Sports)

 

NOSE TACKLE

-- Damonic Williams, senior

-- David Stone, sophomore

The 411: Williams started all 12 regular-season games for Oklahoma in his first season with the program after transferring from TCU, and this offseason he has grown into more of a leader along the defensive line. He should be back in his starting role at nose tackle, though according to Venables, Stone has been "fighting" for a starting job after putting together a strong fall camp. The former five-star defensive tackle played a small role as a freshman last year and flirted with the transfer portal in April, but since withdrawing from the portal and returning to OU, coaches and teammates have seen a "different animal" — one who has put in all work that points toward a breakout season on the interior of a deep, talented defensive line.

 

DEFENSIVE END

-- Marvin Jones Jr., senior

-- Taylor Wein, redshirt sophomore

The 411: The most hotly contested spot on Oklahoma's defensive line has been the end opposite Thomas. Wein received ample buzz during the offseason and heading into fall camp, while Jones—the former five-star prospect with prior stops at Georgia and Florida State—was still settling into things during the spring. Jones has looked much improved during fall practices, and he seems to have the edge for the top spot heading into the opener, though Wein isn't far behind. Adepoju Adebawore, another former five-star, should also be in the mix for reps here. This is one of the spots where an "OR" on the official depth chart would not be a surprise.

 

 

 

13234997.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: NATHAN J. FISH/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images, USA TODAY Sports)

 

MIKE LINEBACKER

-- Kobie McKinzie, redshirt junior

-- Sammy Omosigho, junior

The 411: McKinzie should be stepping into the starting role previously held by All-American Danny Stutsman after being the third player in OU's three-man rotation at inside linebacker a year ago. He has received plenty of competition from Omosigho, even challenging him to come take the starting job from him in fall camp. It has been a healthy competition that has paid dividends for both players, especially for Omosigho as he has settled into the Mike linebacker role after spending the last two seasons focusing on Cheetah.

 

WILL LINEBACKER

-- Kip Lewis, redshirt junior

-- Owen Heinecke, redshirt junior

The 411: Lewis is back for his second full season starting at inside linebacker for Oklahoma and will try to build off a strong 2024 campaign in which he was third on the team in tackle and had a pair of pick-sixes in OU's two SEC wins. Behind him, Heinecke has emerged as a viable option at linebacker. The former walk-on has been primarily a special teams contributor the last two years but has developed into someone who has earned the respect of Venables and the coaching staff and could play a real role on defense this season.

 

CHEETAH LINEBACKER

-- Kendal Daniels, redshirt senior

-- Reggie Powers III, sophomore

The 411: Daniels has made himself at home in the Cheetah spot after transferring over from Oklahoma State in the offseason. The versatile veteran looks like he can be a real weapon for the Sooners this season and could get on the field in different roles (including inside linebacker, if needed). Powers has been one of the most impressive players on the defensive side of the ball, as the sophomore has been pushing for time at both Cheetah and safety — and should see the field in both spots. Both Daniels and Powers have made the case as guys who need to be on the field as much as possible and in any manner possible for Oklahoma's defense this season. Kendel Dolby, who worked his way back from a gruesome September ankle injury but has also missed time in the preseason, is another valuable option at Cheetah who's also expected to contribute at cornerback.

 

 

 

13224710.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK, USA TODAY Sports)

 

CORNERBACK

-- Gentry Williams, redshirt junior

-- Jacobe Johnson, junior OR

-- Jeremiah Newcombe, redshirt freshman

The 411: Williams missed nearly all of last season due to a shoulder injury—the second year in a row he sustained an injury to his shoulder—but worked his way back into the fray after being limited in the spring. Now the "big brother" of the cornerback room, he should have a starting role so long as he can remain healthy. I'd expect either Johnson, who has been getting settled full-time at corner after moonlighting at wide receiver for part of last season, or Newcombe, the redshirt freshman who has also been repping some in the Cheetah rotation, to be listed in the backup spot. When Kendel Dolby is fully healthy after dealing with some nagging preseason issues, expect him to be in the rotation at cornerback and at Cheetah.

 

CORNERBACK

-- Devon Jordan, sophomore

-- Courtland Guillory, freshman

The 411: This would have been Eli Bowen's starting spot, but he has missed all of the preseason due to an ankle injury that has kept him in a protective boot. While cornerbacks coach Jay Valai expects Bowen, an ESPN Freshman All-American and OU's top cornerback last season, to be back in due time, his absence has meant opportunity for the Sooners' wave of young cornerbacks. It seems like every week has presented a different name emerging as a potential starter here, but I lean Jordan — the sophomore from Tulsa — over Guillory, the impressively confident true freshman who has been a favorite of Venables since the offseason.

 

 

 

13238038.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: John Reed-Imagn Images, USA TODAY Sports)

 

FREE SAFETY

-- Robert Spears-Jennings, senior

-- Michael Boganowski, sophomore

The 411: Spears-Jennings was somewhat quietly one of Oklahoma's best defensive players last season, and now he is back as the team's leading returning tackler. He'll be the starter at free safety for the second year in a row while stepping into a larger leadership role on the back end. Behind him, Boganowski is expected to be the backup, as the hard-hitting sophomore has had a solid offseason after getting his feet wet as a true freshman last year.

 

STRONG SAFETY

-- Peyton Bowen, junior

-- Reggie Powers III, sophomore

The 411: This is another spot that has had a healthy competition for the starting role, as Bowen — the former five-star prospect — has looked to return to form after begin hampered by a turf toe issue last season, and Powers has been one of the most impressive players on the defense while vying for reps at strong safety and Cheetah. I'm giving a healthy Bowen the nod here for the starting job, though I expect both to feature heavily into Oklahoma's defensive plans.

SPECIAL TEAMS

 

 

13204713.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320  (Photo: JAMES D. JACKSON, 247Sports)

 

KICKER

-- Tate Sandell, redshirt junior

-- Austin Welch, redshirt senior

The 411: Sandell has been as advertised after transferring in from UTSA this summer. That has included a 58-yard field goal during the team's second preseason scrimmage. Expect him to handle place-kicking duties, with Welch, the Kennesaw State transfer, backing him up after looking much better this fall than he did during an uneven spring for the Sooners' kickers.

 

PUNTER

-- Jacob Ulrich, redshirt sophomore

-- Grayson Miller, senior

The 411: Ulrich was among the better punters in the country last season at Kennesaw State, and now he's prepared to step into the starting role vacated by Luke Elzinga, who was quietly quite the weapon for Oklahoma the last two seasons in terms of the field-position battle. Miller, a transfer from UCO, should be next in line.

 

 

 

 

13238060.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,off (Photo: NATHAN J. FISH/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images, USA TODAY Sports)

 

KICKOFF RETURNERS

-- Elijah Thomas, freshman AND

-- Tory Blaylock, freshman

-- Jaydn Ott, senior AND

-- Zion Ragins, sophomore

The 411: The kickoff and punt return spots are more speculation than any other position, as we got limited opportunities to see the candidates for those spots during open practice periods. Ott may have the most upside (and experience) as a kickoff return specialist, but OU may opt to not force that onto his plate on top of his role as lead running back. Thomas and Blaylock have been a pair of impressive freshmen with explosive playmaking ability and could be intriguing options in the return game, if the Sooners choose to go in that direction.

 

PUNT RETURNERS

-- Isaiah Sategna, redshirt junior

-- Peyton Bowen, junior

The 411: Sategna and Bowen both bring experience to the return game. Bowen was Oklahoma's primary punt return specialist last season but had some issues fielding punts. He said this preseason that he hopes to be in that role again now that he's healthy, with his turf toe issue behind him. Sategna was among the early-camp options working on punt returns, and two years ago at Arkansas he was one of the nation's better punt returners.

 

 

 

13238048.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,off (Photo: Photo by Brian Bahr/Getty Images, Getty)

 

LONG SNAPPER

-- Ben Anderson, redshirt junior

-- Seth Freeman, freshman

The 411: Anderson is back as an All-SEC long snapper, serving as the triggerman for Oklahoma's special teams operations this season. Freeman, a freshman who signed with the program this offseason, waits in the wings.

 

HOLDER

-- Austin Welch, redshirt senior

-- Grayson Miller, senior

The 411: While Welch likely won't be Oklahoma's primary kicker, he was working as the holder for Sandell during an early-camp viewing window. Miller also repped there, though I wouldn't rule out Ulrich, who also has experience holding from his time at Kennesaw State.

 

  • Hook 'Em 3
  • Haha 3
Posted
6 minutes ago, closetojumping said:

Sooners Illustrated has published their depth chart prediction for the reason. It's spoilered below and it's a long scroll but a pretty straightforward read. They're not just throwing out wild guesses, this DC is based on practice observations and information gathering. I mock them often for their homerism, but that's part of their job. I actually think they do a good job as a group in terms publishing useful material.

Highlights:

-They're having to come clean at a lot of positions that the hype they've been putting on some guys isn't going to materialize, in many instances due to injury. 

-Ott is still struggling with a shoulder injury but they plan on starting him next Saturday.

-Jaydan Gibson, after all of the hype of being out of a boot and being ready at some point during camp, still isn't working out and they don't even bother mentioning him in this update. I consider that dude to be a ghost at this point. 

-The most hype transfer from UAPB ever, Javonnie Gibson, will not be starting the season suited out and is not on the chart either. 

-Venables' Center choice appears to have won the battle versus the guy that Nagy paid from Stanford, someone he's told people will be starting. 

-Just look at TE. Some dude from Kennesaw State. Another guy from Pittsburg State (KS). Jaren KanekKanek. 

-The Keontez Lewis dude wasn't mentioned as a factor in the WR corps until literally this week. He's starting. 

-Eli Bowen isn't listed.

-The Adebawore 5 star Edge is mentioned only in the vein that he may show up at some point. A guy named Taylor Wein, who was expected to be a garbage time player, is ahead of him on the depth chart.

-The defense is going to have to do a lot of work this season if this is a team with a record above 7-5. 

  Hide contents

Final Oklahoma football depth chart projection for 2025 season

One final depth chart projection for Oklahoma football's offense, defense and special teams with the Sooners' 2025 season opener a little more than a week away.

Tom GreenTom Green83 minsVIP4

 

 

NORMAN — The hay is in the barn, and Oklahoma is turning its attention to the start of the 2025 season.

For the last three-plus weeks, the Sooners have been prepping for what is shaping up to be a pivotal Year 4 for the program under head coach Brent Venables. Oklahoma is fresh off a disappointing first season in the SEC, in which the team finished 6-7 for the second time in three years, and is aiming for a big-time bounceback this fall. Venables is back in the saddle as the Sooners' defensive coordinator, taking over play-calling for a unit that has made strides in each of his first three years as head coach, while 29-year-old rising star Ben Arbuckle is charged with resuscitating the offense with his quarterback, John Mateer.

While Oklahoma returns seven regular starters from last year's defense, several positions have been up for grabs this preseason — with other returning starters fighting to maintain their roles. Offensively, there have been few sure things aside from Mateer's standing as QB1.

Oklahoma will roll out its official Week 1 depth chart ahead of Venables' weekly press conference Tuesday, but as the coaching staff puts the finishing touches on that initial two-deep this weekend, Sooners Illustrated is here to take a final stab at projecting OU's season-opening depth chart for the offense, defense and special teams. These projections are based on observations from available practice windows, information gleaned from speaking with Venables, six OU assistant coaches and 37 Sooners players over the last three-plus weeks, as well as feedback from other sources around the program.

So, with that being said, let's dive in…

 
 

OFFENSE

 

13238012.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: DOUG HOKE/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images, USA TODAY Sports)

 

QUARTERBACK

-- John Mateer, redshirt junior

-- Michael Hawkins Jr., sophomore

The 411: After starring at Washington State under Ben Arbuckle last season, Mateer followed his OC to Oklahoma and is set to take over as QB1. One of the most productive quarterbacks in the country last season, Mateer will try to replicate his success with the Sooners this fall. Since arriving in January, he has worked to leave his mark on the program and take ownership of the team—and by all accounts has. Hawkins, after starting a few games as a true freshman last season, has developed well thus far under Arbuckle and will serve as Oklahoma's backup.

 

RUNNING BACK

-- Jaydn Ott, senior

-- Jovantae Barnes, senior

The 411: Ott, the transfer from Cal, was Oklahoma's big splash addition during the spring portal window. Though he missed some time this preseason, he should be good to go for the opener and take over the lead role in the Sooners' backfield. While Ott was recovering from a shoulder issue for a portion of camp, Barnes handled primary reps with the offense. The real intrigue here is who will be No. 3 in the rotation to start the season after Xavier Robinson and Taylor Tatum both missed time this preseason, with freshman Tory Blaylock making the most of his quality reps and surging during camp.

 

 

 

 

13218731.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: DOUG HOKE/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images, USA TODAY Sports)

 

WIDE RECEIVER

-- Isaiah Sategna, redshirt junior

-- Zion Kearney, sophomore

The 411: Sategna, the transfer from Arkansas, has been tabbed as Mr. Reliable for Oklahoma this preseason while being the most consistent wide receiver in the room and establishing a strong rapport with Mateer. He should have a starting role essentially locked up, whether it's on the outside or in the slot. Kearney has been impressive this fall too, though he missed some time due to a concussion early in camp. When healthy, Kearney is a big-bodied playmaker who could stretch the field in Arbuckle's system.

 

WIDE RECEIVER

-- Keontez Lewis, redshirt senior

-- Elijah Thomas, freshman

The 411: This spot would likely belong to Javonnie Gibson, but the Arkansas-Pine Bluff transfer is still on the mend after an April leg injury. While he's expected back in the coming weeks, his absence opened the door for other candidates this preseason. Lewis was hampered in the spring due to a hamstring injury but has put together a strong fall while impressing teammates and coaches with his competitiveness and willingness to fight for contested catches. The Southern Illinois transfer, whom receivers coach Emmett Jones likened to CeeDee Lamb and Nic Anderson, seems like the favorite to be OU's other outside receiver when it opens the season, though Thomas — a true freshman — has had a quality fall as well, drawing comparisons to New York Giants wideout Malik Nabors while impressing with his explosiveness and natural pass-catching ability.

 

 

13221299.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: NATHAN J. FISH/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images, USA TODAY Sports)

 

SLOT RECEIVER

-- Deion Burks, redshirt senior

-- Jacob Jordan, sophomore OR

-- Josiah Martin, sophomore

The 411: Burks was supposed to be Oklahoma's prized portal addition a year ago, but he was limited to just five games due to injury last season. After deciding to come back for another year, he has solidified himself as the leader of Oklahoma's receiving corps and sure-fire starter, likely in the slot (though, like Sategna, he can play both inside and outside). Behind him, look for either Jordan, who made the most of his opportunities as a freshman walk-on last season, or Martin, the transfer from Cal.

 

TIGHT END

-- Carson Kent, redshirt junior

-- Will Huggins, redshirt senior OR

-- Jaren Kanak, senior

The 411: Tight end remains the most unproven position on Oklahoma's roster and the biggest question mark on the offense entering the season. Kent, the transfer from Kennesaw State, gets the nod here for the top spot as the most well-rounded option, but expect both Huggins and Kanak to play roles in the offense, with Kanak — the converted linebacker — likely serving as an H-back type who could make for an intriguing playmaker with the ball in his hands. Kaden Helms should also have some opportunities after he recovers from a hand injury he sustained early in the preseason.

 

 

13238020.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images, USA TODAY Sports)

 

LEFT TACKLE

-- Jacob Sexton, senior

-- Michael Fasusi, freshman

The 411: Sexton and Fasusi have been pushing each other for the job at left tackle, with Fasusi getting his share of first-team reps while Sexton missed some time earlier in the preseason. While Fasusi will play this season and have a real role in the rotation up front, Sexton — who has settled in at tackle after playing both tackle and guard last season — gets the nod for the starting job heading into Week 1.

 

LEFT GUARD

-- Heath Ozaeta, redshirt sophomore

-- Eddy Pierre-Louis, sophomore

The 411: Pierre-Louis was the hot name through the offseason and at the start of camp, but he's still honing his craft and working to strike a balance between his physicality and his precision at left guard. Meanwhile, Ozaeta has settled back into things in recent weeks after starting eight games last season but missing spring and much of summer due to a January shoulder procedure.

 

 

13238022.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: Andrew Dieb-Imagn Images, USA TODAY Sports)

 

CENTER

-- Troy Everett, redshirt senior

-- Jake Maikkula, redshirt junior

The 411: Everett has made the most of his first full offseason with Oklahoma (he was a summer addition prior to the 2023 season, and he sustained a knee injury in the spring that cost him the start of the 2024 season), developing into the unquestioned leader of the Sooners' offensive line. He should be back in his role as starting center, though Maikkula has made a strong push since transferring in from Stanford this summer. The competition, it seems, has brought out the best in both players.

 

RIGHT GUARD

-- Febechi Nwaiwu, redshirt senior

-- Ryan Fodje, freshman

The 411: Nwaiwu started all 13 games at right guard for OU last season and led all offensive linemen in snaps after transferring in from North Texas a year ago. While he was uneven as times last fall, Nwaiwu has been the Sooners' most consistent offensive lineman during the preseason and seems to have taken his game up a notch heading into Year 2 with the program. While Nwaiwu should hold onto his starting job at right guard, Fodje has looked good as a true freshman, with offensive line coach Bill Bedenbaugh saying Fodje and Fasusi are unlike any other freshmen he has coached during his decade-plus with the program. Fodje will play this season; it's just a matter of how much and what that role will look like.

 

RIGHT TACKLE

-- Logan Howland, redshirt sophomore

-- Derek Simmons, redshirt senior

The 411: After transferring in from Western Carolina, Simmons was the longstanding favorite to take over the open right tackle spot on Oklahoma's offensive line. That changed over the course of fall camp, as Simmons missed significant time due to a concussion. That opened the door for Howland, who started six games at left tackle last season before undergoing a labrum procedure in January. Howland was eased back into action this fall, and with Sexton and Fasusi looking good at left tackle, he switched over to the right side and took advantage of the opening at right tackle. Simmons could very well return to the starting role at some point, but based on how much time he missed this preseason, I expect Howland to get the nod heading into Week 1.

DEFENSE

 

13238024.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: DOUG HOKE/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images, USA TODAY Sports)

 

DEFENSIVE END

-- R Mason Thomas, senior

-- Danny Okoye, redshirt freshman

The 411: Thomas is back after an All-SEC season as a junior, and he'll lead the Sooners' efforts off the edge while trying to play himself into the first round of next year's NFL Draft. Behind him, Okoye has come on strong this preseason after redshirting last year. Arguably Oklahoma's most athletic player, Okoye should see quality reps this season behind Thomas, with Venables saying earlier in the week that the Sooners are eager to unleash the 6-foot-3, 251-pounder on the SEC this fall.

 

DEFENSIVE TACKLE

-- Jayden Jackson, sophomore

-- Gracen Halton, senior

The 411: Jackson earned a starting job this time last year as a true freshman, becoming the first freshman defensive lineman to start for Oklahoma since 2001. He made the most of it with a Freshman All-America campaign, and though he missed spring due to a January shoulder procedure, he has picked up this preseason right where he left off last year. Halton, back for his senior year, missed significant time during the preseason out of precaution due to injury but should be back in the fray for the start of the season. If Oklahoma decides to hold him back in Week 1 (with sights set on making sure he's 100% for the Michigan game in Week 2), expect either Markus Strong to be the likely fill-in.

 

 

13234586.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: DOUG HOKE/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images, USA TODAY Sports)

 

NOSE TACKLE

-- Damonic Williams, senior

-- David Stone, sophomore

The 411: Williams started all 12 regular-season games for Oklahoma in his first season with the program after transferring from TCU, and this offseason he has grown into more of a leader along the defensive line. He should be back in his starting role at nose tackle, though according to Venables, Stone has been "fighting" for a starting job after putting together a strong fall camp. The former five-star defensive tackle played a small role as a freshman last year and flirted with the transfer portal in April, but since withdrawing from the portal and returning to OU, coaches and teammates have seen a "different animal" — one who has put in all work that points toward a breakout season on the interior of a deep, talented defensive line.

 

DEFENSIVE END

-- Marvin Jones Jr., senior

-- Taylor Wein, redshirt sophomore

The 411: The most hotly contested spot on Oklahoma's defensive line has been the end opposite Thomas. Wein received ample buzz during the offseason and heading into fall camp, while Jones—the former five-star prospect with prior stops at Georgia and Florida State—was still settling into things during the spring. Jones has looked much improved during fall practices, and he seems to have the edge for the top spot heading into the opener, though Wein isn't far behind. Adepoju Adebawore, another former five-star, should also be in the mix for reps here. This is one of the spots where an "OR" on the official depth chart would not be a surprise.

 

 

13234997.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: NATHAN J. FISH/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images, USA TODAY Sports)

 

MIKE LINEBACKER

-- Kobie McKinzie, redshirt junior

-- Sammy Omosigho, junior

The 411: McKinzie should be stepping into the starting role previously held by All-American Danny Stutsman after being the third player in OU's three-man rotation at inside linebacker a year ago. He has received plenty of competition from Omosigho, even challenging him to come take the starting job from him in fall camp. It has been a healthy competition that has paid dividends for both players, especially for Omosigho as he has settled into the Mike linebacker role after spending the last two seasons focusing on Cheetah.

 

WILL LINEBACKER

-- Kip Lewis, redshirt junior

-- Owen Heinecke, redshirt junior

The 411: Lewis is back for his second full season starting at inside linebacker for Oklahoma and will try to build off a strong 2024 campaign in which he was third on the team in tackle and had a pair of pick-sixes in OU's two SEC wins. Behind him, Heinecke has emerged as a viable option at linebacker. The former walk-on has been primarily a special teams contributor the last two years but has developed into someone who has earned the respect of Venables and the coaching staff and could play a real role on defense this season.

 

CHEETAH LINEBACKER

-- Kendal Daniels, redshirt senior

-- Reggie Powers III, sophomore

The 411: Daniels has made himself at home in the Cheetah spot after transferring over from Oklahoma State in the offseason. The versatile veteran looks like he can be a real weapon for the Sooners this season and could get on the field in different roles (including inside linebacker, if needed). Powers has been one of the most impressive players on the defensive side of the ball, as the sophomore has been pushing for time at both Cheetah and safety — and should see the field in both spots. Both Daniels and Powers have made the case as guys who need to be on the field as much as possible and in any manner possible for Oklahoma's defense this season. Kendel Dolby, who worked his way back from a gruesome September ankle injury but has also missed time in the preseason, is another valuable option at Cheetah who's also expected to contribute at cornerback.

 

 

13224710.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK, USA TODAY Sports)

 

CORNERBACK

-- Gentry Williams, redshirt junior

-- Jacobe Johnson, junior OR

-- Jeremiah Newcombe, redshirt freshman

The 411: Williams missed nearly all of last season due to a shoulder injury—the second year in a row he sustained an injury to his shoulder—but worked his way back into the fray after being limited in the spring. Now the "big brother" of the cornerback room, he should have a starting role so long as he can remain healthy. I'd expect either Johnson, who has been getting settled full-time at corner after moonlighting at wide receiver for part of last season, or Newcombe, the redshirt freshman who has also been repping some in the Cheetah rotation, to be listed in the backup spot. When Kendel Dolby is fully healthy after dealing with some nagging preseason issues, expect him to be in the rotation at cornerback and at Cheetah.

 

CORNERBACK

-- Devon Jordan, sophomore

-- Courtland Guillory, freshman

The 411: This would have been Eli Bowen's starting spot, but he has missed all of the preseason due to an ankle injury that has kept him in a protective boot. While cornerbacks coach Jay Valai expects Bowen, an ESPN Freshman All-American and OU's top cornerback last season, to be back in due time, his absence has meant opportunity for the Sooners' wave of young cornerbacks. It seems like every week has presented a different name emerging as a potential starter here, but I lean Jordan — the sophomore from Tulsa — over Guillory, the impressively confident true freshman who has been a favorite of Venables since the offseason.

 

 

13238038.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: John Reed-Imagn Images, USA TODAY Sports)

 

FREE SAFETY

-- Robert Spears-Jennings, senior

-- Michael Boganowski, sophomore

The 411: Spears-Jennings was somewhat quietly one of Oklahoma's best defensive players last season, and now he is back as the team's leading returning tackler. He'll be the starter at free safety for the second year in a row while stepping into a larger leadership role on the back end. Behind him, Boganowski is expected to be the backup, as the hard-hitting sophomore has had a solid offseason after getting his feet wet as a true freshman last year.

 

STRONG SAFETY

-- Peyton Bowen, junior

-- Reggie Powers III, sophomore

The 411: This is another spot that has had a healthy competition for the starting role, as Bowen — the former five-star prospect — has looked to return to form after begin hampered by a turf toe issue last season, and Powers has been one of the most impressive players on the defense while vying for reps at strong safety and Cheetah. I'm giving a healthy Bowen the nod here for the starting job, though I expect both to feature heavily into Oklahoma's defensive plans.

SPECIAL TEAMS

 

13204713.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320  (Photo: JAMES D. JACKSON, 247Sports)

 

KICKER

-- Tate Sandell, redshirt junior

-- Austin Welch, redshirt senior

The 411: Sandell has been as advertised after transferring in from UTSA this summer. That has included a 58-yard field goal during the team's second preseason scrimmage. Expect him to handle place-kicking duties, with Welch, the Kennesaw State transfer, backing him up after looking much better this fall than he did during an uneven spring for the Sooners' kickers.

 

PUNTER

-- Jacob Ulrich, redshirt sophomore

-- Grayson Miller, senior

The 411: Ulrich was among the better punters in the country last season at Kennesaw State, and now he's prepared to step into the starting role vacated by Luke Elzinga, who was quietly quite the weapon for Oklahoma the last two seasons in terms of the field-position battle. Miller, a transfer from UCO, should be next in line.

 

 

 

13238060.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,off (Photo: NATHAN J. FISH/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images, USA TODAY Sports)

 

KICKOFF RETURNERS

-- Elijah Thomas, freshman AND

-- Tory Blaylock, freshman

-- Jaydn Ott, senior AND

-- Zion Ragins, sophomore

The 411: The kickoff and punt return spots are more speculation than any other position, as we got limited opportunities to see the candidates for those spots during open practice periods. Ott may have the most upside (and experience) as a kickoff return specialist, but OU may opt to not force that onto his plate on top of his role as lead running back. Thomas and Blaylock have been a pair of impressive freshmen with explosive playmaking ability and could be intriguing options in the return game, if the Sooners choose to go in that direction.

 

PUNT RETURNERS

-- Isaiah Sategna, redshirt junior

-- Peyton Bowen, junior

The 411: Sategna and Bowen both bring experience to the return game. Bowen was Oklahoma's primary punt return specialist last season but had some issues fielding punts. He said this preseason that he hopes to be in that role again now that he's healthy, with his turf toe issue behind him. Sategna was among the early-camp options working on punt returns, and two years ago at Arkansas he was one of the nation's better punt returners.

 

 

13238048.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,off (Photo: Photo by Brian Bahr/Getty Images, Getty)

 

LONG SNAPPER

-- Ben Anderson, redshirt junior

-- Seth Freeman, freshman

The 411: Anderson is back as an All-SEC long snapper, serving as the triggerman for Oklahoma's special teams operations this season. Freeman, a freshman who signed with the program this offseason, waits in the wings.

 

HOLDER

-- Austin Welch, redshirt senior

-- Grayson Miller, senior

The 411: While Welch likely won't be Oklahoma's primary kicker, he was working as the holder for Sandell during an early-camp viewing window. Miller also repped there, though I wouldn't rule out Ulrich, who also has experience holding from his time at Kennesaw State.

 

Wow, I didn't realize Kanak is a senior already and playing a new position.  Add him to the Overhyped Bust Sooner Hall of Fame. They were stroking themselves so hard when they flipped him from Clemson.

Posted
37 minutes ago, closetojumping said:

Sooners Illustrated has published their depth chart prediction for the reason. It's spoilered below and it's a long scroll but a pretty straightforward read. They're not just throwing out wild guesses, this DC is based on practice observations and information gathering. I mock them often for their homerism, but that's part of their job. I actually think they do a good job as a group in terms publishing useful material.

Highlights:

-They're having to come clean at a lot of positions that the hype they've been putting on some guys isn't going to materialize, in many instances due to injury. 

-Ott is still struggling with a shoulder injury but they plan on starting him next Saturday.

-Jaydan Gibson, after all of the hype of being out of a boot and being ready at some point during camp, still isn't working out and they don't even bother mentioning him in this update. I consider that dude to be a ghost at this point. 

-The most hype transfer from UAPB ever, Javonnie Gibson, will not be starting the season suited out and is not on the chart either. 

-Venables' Center choice appears to have won the battle versus the guy that Nagy paid from Stanford, someone he's told people will be starting. 

-Just look at TE. Some dude from Kennesaw State. Another guy from Pittsburg State (KS). Jaren KanekKanek. 

-The Keontez Lewis dude wasn't mentioned as a factor in the WR corps until literally this week. He's starting. 

-Eli Bowen isn't listed.

-The Adebawore 5 star Edge is mentioned only in the vein that he may show up at some point. A guy named Taylor Wein, who was expected to be a garbage time player, is ahead of him on the depth chart.

-The defense is going to have to do a lot of work this season if this is a team with a record above 7-5. 

  Reveal hidden contents

Final Oklahoma football depth chart projection for 2025 season

One final depth chart projection for Oklahoma football's offense, defense and special teams with the Sooners' 2025 season opener a little more than a week away.

Tom GreenTom Green83 minsVIP4

 

 

NORMAN — The hay is in the barn, and Oklahoma is turning its attention to the start of the 2025 season.

For the last three-plus weeks, the Sooners have been prepping for what is shaping up to be a pivotal Year 4 for the program under head coach Brent Venables. Oklahoma is fresh off a disappointing first season in the SEC, in which the team finished 6-7 for the second time in three years, and is aiming for a big-time bounceback this fall. Venables is back in the saddle as the Sooners' defensive coordinator, taking over play-calling for a unit that has made strides in each of his first three years as head coach, while 29-year-old rising star Ben Arbuckle is charged with resuscitating the offense with his quarterback, John Mateer.

While Oklahoma returns seven regular starters from last year's defense, several positions have been up for grabs this preseason — with other returning starters fighting to maintain their roles. Offensively, there have been few sure things aside from Mateer's standing as QB1.

Oklahoma will roll out its official Week 1 depth chart ahead of Venables' weekly press conference Tuesday, but as the coaching staff puts the finishing touches on that initial two-deep this weekend, Sooners Illustrated is here to take a final stab at projecting OU's season-opening depth chart for the offense, defense and special teams. These projections are based on observations from available practice windows, information gleaned from speaking with Venables, six OU assistant coaches and 37 Sooners players over the last three-plus weeks, as well as feedback from other sources around the program.

So, with that being said, let's dive in…

 
 

OFFENSE

 

13238012.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: DOUG HOKE/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images, USA TODAY Sports)

 

QUARTERBACK

-- John Mateer, redshirt junior

-- Michael Hawkins Jr., sophomore

The 411: After starring at Washington State under Ben Arbuckle last season, Mateer followed his OC to Oklahoma and is set to take over as QB1. One of the most productive quarterbacks in the country last season, Mateer will try to replicate his success with the Sooners this fall. Since arriving in January, he has worked to leave his mark on the program and take ownership of the team—and by all accounts has. Hawkins, after starting a few games as a true freshman last season, has developed well thus far under Arbuckle and will serve as Oklahoma's backup.

 

RUNNING BACK

-- Jaydn Ott, senior

-- Jovantae Barnes, senior

The 411: Ott, the transfer from Cal, was Oklahoma's big splash addition during the spring portal window. Though he missed some time this preseason, he should be good to go for the opener and take over the lead role in the Sooners' backfield. While Ott was recovering from a shoulder issue for a portion of camp, Barnes handled primary reps with the offense. The real intrigue here is who will be No. 3 in the rotation to start the season after Xavier Robinson and Taylor Tatum both missed time this preseason, with freshman Tory Blaylock making the most of his quality reps and surging during camp.

 

 

 

 

13218731.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: DOUG HOKE/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images, USA TODAY Sports)

 

WIDE RECEIVER

-- Isaiah Sategna, redshirt junior

-- Zion Kearney, sophomore

The 411: Sategna, the transfer from Arkansas, has been tabbed as Mr. Reliable for Oklahoma this preseason while being the most consistent wide receiver in the room and establishing a strong rapport with Mateer. He should have a starting role essentially locked up, whether it's on the outside or in the slot. Kearney has been impressive this fall too, though he missed some time due to a concussion early in camp. When healthy, Kearney is a big-bodied playmaker who could stretch the field in Arbuckle's system.

 

WIDE RECEIVER

-- Keontez Lewis, redshirt senior

-- Elijah Thomas, freshman

The 411: This spot would likely belong to Javonnie Gibson, but the Arkansas-Pine Bluff transfer is still on the mend after an April leg injury. While he's expected back in the coming weeks, his absence opened the door for other candidates this preseason. Lewis was hampered in the spring due to a hamstring injury but has put together a strong fall while impressing teammates and coaches with his competitiveness and willingness to fight for contested catches. The Southern Illinois transfer, whom receivers coach Emmett Jones likened to CeeDee Lamb and Nic Anderson, seems like the favorite to be OU's other outside receiver when it opens the season, though Thomas — a true freshman — has had a quality fall as well, drawing comparisons to New York Giants wideout Malik Nabors while impressing with his explosiveness and natural pass-catching ability.

 

 

13221299.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: NATHAN J. FISH/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images, USA TODAY Sports)

 

SLOT RECEIVER

-- Deion Burks, redshirt senior

-- Jacob Jordan, sophomore OR

-- Josiah Martin, sophomore

The 411: Burks was supposed to be Oklahoma's prized portal addition a year ago, but he was limited to just five games due to injury last season. After deciding to come back for another year, he has solidified himself as the leader of Oklahoma's receiving corps and sure-fire starter, likely in the slot (though, like Sategna, he can play both inside and outside). Behind him, look for either Jordan, who made the most of his opportunities as a freshman walk-on last season, or Martin, the transfer from Cal.

 

TIGHT END

-- Carson Kent, redshirt junior

-- Will Huggins, redshirt senior OR

-- Jaren Kanak, senior

The 411: Tight end remains the most unproven position on Oklahoma's roster and the biggest question mark on the offense entering the season. Kent, the transfer from Kennesaw State, gets the nod here for the top spot as the most well-rounded option, but expect both Huggins and Kanak to play roles in the offense, with Kanak — the converted linebacker — likely serving as an H-back type who could make for an intriguing playmaker with the ball in his hands. Kaden Helms should also have some opportunities after he recovers from a hand injury he sustained early in the preseason.

 

 

13238020.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images, USA TODAY Sports)

 

LEFT TACKLE

-- Jacob Sexton, senior

-- Michael Fasusi, freshman

The 411: Sexton and Fasusi have been pushing each other for the job at left tackle, with Fasusi getting his share of first-team reps while Sexton missed some time earlier in the preseason. While Fasusi will play this season and have a real role in the rotation up front, Sexton — who has settled in at tackle after playing both tackle and guard last season — gets the nod for the starting job heading into Week 1.

 

LEFT GUARD

-- Heath Ozaeta, redshirt sophomore

-- Eddy Pierre-Louis, sophomore

The 411: Pierre-Louis was the hot name through the offseason and at the start of camp, but he's still honing his craft and working to strike a balance between his physicality and his precision at left guard. Meanwhile, Ozaeta has settled back into things in recent weeks after starting eight games last season but missing spring and much of summer due to a January shoulder procedure.

 

 

13238022.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: Andrew Dieb-Imagn Images, USA TODAY Sports)

 

CENTER

-- Troy Everett, redshirt senior

-- Jake Maikkula, redshirt junior

The 411: Everett has made the most of his first full offseason with Oklahoma (he was a summer addition prior to the 2023 season, and he sustained a knee injury in the spring that cost him the start of the 2024 season), developing into the unquestioned leader of the Sooners' offensive line. He should be back in his role as starting center, though Maikkula has made a strong push since transferring in from Stanford this summer. The competition, it seems, has brought out the best in both players.

 

RIGHT GUARD

-- Febechi Nwaiwu, redshirt senior

-- Ryan Fodje, freshman

The 411: Nwaiwu started all 13 games at right guard for OU last season and led all offensive linemen in snaps after transferring in from North Texas a year ago. While he was uneven as times last fall, Nwaiwu has been the Sooners' most consistent offensive lineman during the preseason and seems to have taken his game up a notch heading into Year 2 with the program. While Nwaiwu should hold onto his starting job at right guard, Fodje has looked good as a true freshman, with offensive line coach Bill Bedenbaugh saying Fodje and Fasusi are unlike any other freshmen he has coached during his decade-plus with the program. Fodje will play this season; it's just a matter of how much and what that role will look like.

 

RIGHT TACKLE

-- Logan Howland, redshirt sophomore

-- Derek Simmons, redshirt senior

The 411: After transferring in from Western Carolina, Simmons was the longstanding favorite to take over the open right tackle spot on Oklahoma's offensive line. That changed over the course of fall camp, as Simmons missed significant time due to a concussion. That opened the door for Howland, who started six games at left tackle last season before undergoing a labrum procedure in January. Howland was eased back into action this fall, and with Sexton and Fasusi looking good at left tackle, he switched over to the right side and took advantage of the opening at right tackle. Simmons could very well return to the starting role at some point, but based on how much time he missed this preseason, I expect Howland to get the nod heading into Week 1.

DEFENSE

 

13238024.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: DOUG HOKE/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images, USA TODAY Sports)

 

DEFENSIVE END

-- R Mason Thomas, senior

-- Danny Okoye, redshirt freshman

The 411: Thomas is back after an All-SEC season as a junior, and he'll lead the Sooners' efforts off the edge while trying to play himself into the first round of next year's NFL Draft. Behind him, Okoye has come on strong this preseason after redshirting last year. Arguably Oklahoma's most athletic player, Okoye should see quality reps this season behind Thomas, with Venables saying earlier in the week that the Sooners are eager to unleash the 6-foot-3, 251-pounder on the SEC this fall.

 

DEFENSIVE TACKLE

-- Jayden Jackson, sophomore

-- Gracen Halton, senior

The 411: Jackson earned a starting job this time last year as a true freshman, becoming the first freshman defensive lineman to start for Oklahoma since 2001. He made the most of it with a Freshman All-America campaign, and though he missed spring due to a January shoulder procedure, he has picked up this preseason right where he left off last year. Halton, back for his senior year, missed significant time during the preseason out of precaution due to injury but should be back in the fray for the start of the season. If Oklahoma decides to hold him back in Week 1 (with sights set on making sure he's 100% for the Michigan game in Week 2), expect either Markus Strong to be the likely fill-in.

 

 

13234586.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: DOUG HOKE/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images, USA TODAY Sports)

 

NOSE TACKLE

-- Damonic Williams, senior

-- David Stone, sophomore

The 411: Williams started all 12 regular-season games for Oklahoma in his first season with the program after transferring from TCU, and this offseason he has grown into more of a leader along the defensive line. He should be back in his starting role at nose tackle, though according to Venables, Stone has been "fighting" for a starting job after putting together a strong fall camp. The former five-star defensive tackle played a small role as a freshman last year and flirted with the transfer portal in April, but since withdrawing from the portal and returning to OU, coaches and teammates have seen a "different animal" — one who has put in all work that points toward a breakout season on the interior of a deep, talented defensive line.

 

DEFENSIVE END

-- Marvin Jones Jr., senior

-- Taylor Wein, redshirt sophomore

The 411: The most hotly contested spot on Oklahoma's defensive line has been the end opposite Thomas. Wein received ample buzz during the offseason and heading into fall camp, while Jones—the former five-star prospect with prior stops at Georgia and Florida State—was still settling into things during the spring. Jones has looked much improved during fall practices, and he seems to have the edge for the top spot heading into the opener, though Wein isn't far behind. Adepoju Adebawore, another former five-star, should also be in the mix for reps here. This is one of the spots where an "OR" on the official depth chart would not be a surprise.

 

 

13234997.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: NATHAN J. FISH/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images, USA TODAY Sports)

 

MIKE LINEBACKER

-- Kobie McKinzie, redshirt junior

-- Sammy Omosigho, junior

The 411: McKinzie should be stepping into the starting role previously held by All-American Danny Stutsman after being the third player in OU's three-man rotation at inside linebacker a year ago. He has received plenty of competition from Omosigho, even challenging him to come take the starting job from him in fall camp. It has been a healthy competition that has paid dividends for both players, especially for Omosigho as he has settled into the Mike linebacker role after spending the last two seasons focusing on Cheetah.

 

WILL LINEBACKER

-- Kip Lewis, redshirt junior

-- Owen Heinecke, redshirt junior

The 411: Lewis is back for his second full season starting at inside linebacker for Oklahoma and will try to build off a strong 2024 campaign in which he was third on the team in tackle and had a pair of pick-sixes in OU's two SEC wins. Behind him, Heinecke has emerged as a viable option at linebacker. The former walk-on has been primarily a special teams contributor the last two years but has developed into someone who has earned the respect of Venables and the coaching staff and could play a real role on defense this season.

 

CHEETAH LINEBACKER

-- Kendal Daniels, redshirt senior

-- Reggie Powers III, sophomore

The 411: Daniels has made himself at home in the Cheetah spot after transferring over from Oklahoma State in the offseason. The versatile veteran looks like he can be a real weapon for the Sooners this season and could get on the field in different roles (including inside linebacker, if needed). Powers has been one of the most impressive players on the defensive side of the ball, as the sophomore has been pushing for time at both Cheetah and safety — and should see the field in both spots. Both Daniels and Powers have made the case as guys who need to be on the field as much as possible and in any manner possible for Oklahoma's defense this season. Kendel Dolby, who worked his way back from a gruesome September ankle injury but has also missed time in the preseason, is another valuable option at Cheetah who's also expected to contribute at cornerback.

 

 

13224710.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK, USA TODAY Sports)

 

CORNERBACK

-- Gentry Williams, redshirt junior

-- Jacobe Johnson, junior OR

-- Jeremiah Newcombe, redshirt freshman

The 411: Williams missed nearly all of last season due to a shoulder injury—the second year in a row he sustained an injury to his shoulder—but worked his way back into the fray after being limited in the spring. Now the "big brother" of the cornerback room, he should have a starting role so long as he can remain healthy. I'd expect either Johnson, who has been getting settled full-time at corner after moonlighting at wide receiver for part of last season, or Newcombe, the redshirt freshman who has also been repping some in the Cheetah rotation, to be listed in the backup spot. When Kendel Dolby is fully healthy after dealing with some nagging preseason issues, expect him to be in the rotation at cornerback and at Cheetah.

 

CORNERBACK

-- Devon Jordan, sophomore

-- Courtland Guillory, freshman

The 411: This would have been Eli Bowen's starting spot, but he has missed all of the preseason due to an ankle injury that has kept him in a protective boot. While cornerbacks coach Jay Valai expects Bowen, an ESPN Freshman All-American and OU's top cornerback last season, to be back in due time, his absence has meant opportunity for the Sooners' wave of young cornerbacks. It seems like every week has presented a different name emerging as a potential starter here, but I lean Jordan — the sophomore from Tulsa — over Guillory, the impressively confident true freshman who has been a favorite of Venables since the offseason.

 

 

13238038.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: John Reed-Imagn Images, USA TODAY Sports)

 

FREE SAFETY

-- Robert Spears-Jennings, senior

-- Michael Boganowski, sophomore

The 411: Spears-Jennings was somewhat quietly one of Oklahoma's best defensive players last season, and now he is back as the team's leading returning tackler. He'll be the starter at free safety for the second year in a row while stepping into a larger leadership role on the back end. Behind him, Boganowski is expected to be the backup, as the hard-hitting sophomore has had a solid offseason after getting his feet wet as a true freshman last year.

 

STRONG SAFETY

-- Peyton Bowen, junior

-- Reggie Powers III, sophomore

The 411: This is another spot that has had a healthy competition for the starting role, as Bowen — the former five-star prospect — has looked to return to form after begin hampered by a turf toe issue last season, and Powers has been one of the most impressive players on the defense while vying for reps at strong safety and Cheetah. I'm giving a healthy Bowen the nod here for the starting job, though I expect both to feature heavily into Oklahoma's defensive plans.

SPECIAL TEAMS

 

13204713.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320  (Photo: JAMES D. JACKSON, 247Sports)

 

KICKER

-- Tate Sandell, redshirt junior

-- Austin Welch, redshirt senior

The 411: Sandell has been as advertised after transferring in from UTSA this summer. That has included a 58-yard field goal during the team's second preseason scrimmage. Expect him to handle place-kicking duties, with Welch, the Kennesaw State transfer, backing him up after looking much better this fall than he did during an uneven spring for the Sooners' kickers.

 

PUNTER

-- Jacob Ulrich, redshirt sophomore

-- Grayson Miller, senior

The 411: Ulrich was among the better punters in the country last season at Kennesaw State, and now he's prepared to step into the starting role vacated by Luke Elzinga, who was quietly quite the weapon for Oklahoma the last two seasons in terms of the field-position battle. Miller, a transfer from UCO, should be next in line.

 

 

 

13238060.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,off (Photo: NATHAN J. FISH/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images, USA TODAY Sports)

 

KICKOFF RETURNERS

-- Elijah Thomas, freshman AND

-- Tory Blaylock, freshman

-- Jaydn Ott, senior AND

-- Zion Ragins, sophomore

The 411: The kickoff and punt return spots are more speculation than any other position, as we got limited opportunities to see the candidates for those spots during open practice periods. Ott may have the most upside (and experience) as a kickoff return specialist, but OU may opt to not force that onto his plate on top of his role as lead running back. Thomas and Blaylock have been a pair of impressive freshmen with explosive playmaking ability and could be intriguing options in the return game, if the Sooners choose to go in that direction.

 

PUNT RETURNERS

-- Isaiah Sategna, redshirt junior

-- Peyton Bowen, junior

The 411: Sategna and Bowen both bring experience to the return game. Bowen was Oklahoma's primary punt return specialist last season but had some issues fielding punts. He said this preseason that he hopes to be in that role again now that he's healthy, with his turf toe issue behind him. Sategna was among the early-camp options working on punt returns, and two years ago at Arkansas he was one of the nation's better punt returners.

 

 

13238048.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,off (Photo: Photo by Brian Bahr/Getty Images, Getty)

 

LONG SNAPPER

-- Ben Anderson, redshirt junior

-- Seth Freeman, freshman

The 411: Anderson is back as an All-SEC long snapper, serving as the triggerman for Oklahoma's special teams operations this season. Freeman, a freshman who signed with the program this offseason, waits in the wings.

 

HOLDER

-- Austin Welch, redshirt senior

-- Grayson Miller, senior

The 411: While Welch likely won't be Oklahoma's primary kicker, he was working as the holder for Sandell during an early-camp viewing window. Miller also repped there, though I wouldn't rule out Ulrich, who also has experience holding from his time at Kennesaw State.

 

Thanks for the Cliffs Notes, especially since I won't be able to read the article until ctjplaintext comes to the rescue.

Posted
33 minutes ago, Plorant said:

Wow, I didn't realize Kanak is a senior already and playing a new position.  Add him to the Overhyped Bust Sooner Hall of Fame. They were stroking themselves so hard when they flipped him from Clemson.

Wasn't he a LB at some point in the past?

  • Hook 'Em 1
Posted
17 hours ago, closetojumping said:

Spoilered below is a more credible argument about 5 defensive risers for OU in their fall camp. Not surprising given that the defense will actually be good whereas the offense has a lot to prove and has basically zero depth. 

Highlights:

-The 5 star dude with the Nigerian last name isn’t mentioned and he’s legitimately turning into a massive bust. 

-They really need one of the CBs they mention to actually be a sound contributor. Pick your poison with a true freshman that has some talent or a system guy that has never cracked the two deep. 

-Stone is interesting. We’ve talked about him here. Their writers have been spinning the notion of the switch turning on, but he’s not pushing a starter out of the way and he sucked in the spring. 

  Hide contents

 

Stock-risers: 5 Oklahoma defensive players who have improved their standing during preseason practices

A look at five Oklahoma defensive players who improved their stock since the start of fall camp.

Tom GreenTOM GREEN8 hrsVIP5

On Now

Oklahoma Position Preview: Defensive Ends

 

 

NORMAN — The finishing touches are being put on the preseason for Oklahoma, as game prep is set to get underway for the Sooners with their season opener now nine days away.

Oklahoma has been practicing since July 31 in preparation for the 2025 season — a pivotal Year 4 for the program under head coach Brent Venables. After a disappointing inaugural season in the SEC, during which Oklahoma finished 6-7 and won just two games in league play, Venables and his program are in need of a bounceback this fall. The Sooners hope to accomplish that with a roster that features several returning pieces (including seven starters on defense) and big-time offseason additions, headlined by transfers John Mateer and Jaydn Ott on the offensive side.

While there are established pieces on both sides of the ball, Oklahoma is going to get contributions from other newcomers and lesser-known players as it tries to rebound from last year's debacle. As such, let's examine five players on each side of the ball who improved their stock this spring.

Earlier, we detailed five offensive players who improved their stock this preseason. Now, it's time for the defensive side of things. This list does not include established returning starters, and we tried our best to not focus on the same spring stock-risers we identified after spring practice (that means no Isaiah Sategna, Eddy Pierre-Louis, Reggie Powers III, Taylor Wein or Jacobe Johnson) or or the five freshmen who have stood out this preseason that we highlighted on the site last weekend. Whether it was a newcomer fitting in nicely entering his first season at OU, young players progressing more than expected or returning pieces making a clear step forward or settling into new roles, here are five Sooners defensive players who improved their stock since the first day of fall camp.

 

 

DANNY OKOYE, DEFENSIVE END

 

13206948.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: JAMES D. JACKSON, 247Sports)

 

When Brent Venables joined Toby Rowland for his season preview show earlier this week, the pair ran through a couple handfuls of Oklahoma players, rapid-fire style, with Venables offering a couple sentences on each Sooner. Among those listed was Danny Okoye, the redshirt freshman edge rusher who has taken a big leap since last season, when he took a redshirt while making just two appearances and logging nine snaps on defense.

Venables quickly highlighted Okoye's "untapped potential," adding that the Sooners "can't wait to release him (on) the SEC" this season. That was a telling proclamation from OU's fourth-year head coach as he prepares to step back into the role of defensive play-caller this fall. The 6-foot-3, 251-pound Okoye looks like he's chiseled from marble, up 6 pounds from a year ago and apparently turning a corner in his development as he vies for reps in a tantalizing defensive ends rotation this season. Okoye, who has been described as one of the best all-around athletes on the team, isn't expected to start, but he should find himself a role behind All-SEC performer R Mason Thomas in the rotation off the edge.

"He's a madman," defensive ends coach Miguel Chavis said. "When he knows what he's doing, he's playing really fast. Just an unbelievable young man, and as handsome, as gifted, as talented. as likable and as talented as he is, he's a better person.  It's a joy coaching him. He's going to be a household name pretty soon; I mean that."

DEVON JORDAN, CORNERBACK

 

13235600.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: BRYAN TERRY/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK, USA TODAY Sports)

 

Oklahoma has leaned into a youth movement at cornerback this offseason, with Gentry Williams as the old head in a room that's littered with freshmen and second-year players. Among those second-year defensive backs is Devon Jordan, the sophomore from Tulsa who got a taste of the SEC last season in appearances against Texas and South Carolina midseason.

This preseason, though, the 5-foot-11 corner has been impressive while making the most of his opportunities in assistant coach Jay Valai's room. With Eli Bowen sidelined due to an ankle injury that has relegated him to a protective boot throughout preseason practices, Jordan has been one of the top performers when it comes to pushing for a starting job on the season-opening depth chart. Don't be surprised if Jordan is on the top line with Williams, his fellow Tulsa native, when the Sooners release their Week 1 two-deep next week.

"He understands scheme, understanding his responsibility and his process and then being violent within his processes too," Valai said. "I would say scheme starts the play, but players make the plays come alive, though. He's really bought into that. Technically sound but aggressive, too. Not playing with confidence but playing with conviction. Big-picture perspective, understanding post arrows, everything on the football field. His gain of knowledge of the game has been phenomenal. He's weaponized it."

COURTLAND GUILLORY, CORNERBACK

 

13215609.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: JAMES D. JACKSON, 247Sports)

 

Courtland Guillory was among the freshman standouts highlighted last weekend, so this is a bit of a double-dip, but the 6-foot, 183-pounder out of Houston has been a hot topic throughout the preseason. Guillory has been a favorite of Brent Venables all offseason, and the former four-star cornerback has shown why during fall practices while making his case for a starting job at the beginning of the season.

Guillory, like Devon Jordan, has been among those pushing for Eli Bowen's spot while the former Freshman All-American has been on the shelf. Guillory has excelled in one-on-one situations and carries himself with the confidence of a proven veteran—despite having yet to play a single snap at the college level. If Jordan isn't atop the depth chart next week, don't be surprised if it's Guillory in that spot instead. Regardless of who starts against Illinois State, Guillory is sure to see plenty of opportunities in the cornerback rotation this season.

"He's not confident, he's convicted," cornerbacks coach Jay Valai said. "He has no flinch. Whoever the best receiver is, he wants to line up against him. He sees Deion Burksout there, he says, 'I want Deion.' Whoever the best guy is, he wants them. And, for me, having that no-flinch mindset or mentality, I know when it's the fourth quarter or the game is on the line, he ain't going to hesitate. Him doing that, but backing it up with his work and process, showing up here early in the morning at 7 a.m. when nobody's in here to watch extra film — just understand the details, how we teach man-to-man, Cover 2, Cover 3, hot coverage. Everything we do, he's been really good at understanding the why behind it, too. He's not memorizing, he's understanding, just like Eli last year. It's a big thing. A lot of times, you ask a young guy what a Cover 3 is, they have no idea. Understanding the why, that's really where his game has come along."

DAVID STONE, DEFENSIVE TACKLE

 

13234994.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,off (Photo: NATHAN J. FISH/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images, USA TODAY Sports)

 

David Stone arrived at Oklahoma last year with unreal hype as the prized signee in the Sooners' 2024 class — a five-star prospect who was a top-10 overall player in the country coming out of IMG Academy. But Year 1 in Norman didn't live up to the expectations for Stone, who appeared in every game but logged just 94 defensive snaps as a true freshman, finishing the season with six total tackles, including one sack, with seven total pressures.

Stone seemed to turn a corner in the spring, but then in April he abruptly entered the transfer portal. It was a weekend-long saga that, ultimately, came to a resolution that resulted in Stone withdrawing from the portal and reaffirming his desire to continue his career at Oklahoma. Since that weekend, teammates have noticed a different Stone over the last four months. He has rededicated himself to the film room, spending ample time with defensive tackles coach Todd Bates, while becoming a more vocal leader and holding both teammates and himself accountable. Most importantly, Stone's efforts off the field have started to show on the field, as he has put together a strong preseason while not just establishing himself in Oklahoma's talented defensive tackles rotation but "fighting" for a starting job, according to Brent Venables. If the 6-foot-3, 310-pounder can continue on this trajectory, he'll have a chance to fulfill his five-star potential and be a true difference maker at the line of scrimmage in the SEC.

"He's just continued, man, been a model of consistency," Bates said. "And the work he's put in — the work, it'll show up and follow you like a shadow. Whatever you do or lack thereof, it's going to show. If you put it in, it's going to show. And he's putting it in like a coach."

OWEN HEINECKE, LINEBACKER

 

13235608.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images, USA TODAY Sports)

 

Oklahoma's linebacker depth was somewhat of a concern this offseason, with the Sooners returning both Kip Lewis and Kobie McKinziewhile shifting Sammy Omosigho from Cheetah to inside linebacker. The big question revolved around who would emerge as the fourth linebacker in that rotation, with Oklahoma State transfer Kendal Daniels a popular candidate this offseason.

While Daniels has that flexibility to play inside — and very well could see reps there this season — he has solidified himself at the Cheetah position and is likely to be the team's started in that role. Enter, Owen Heinecke, the former walk-on out of Tulsawho has primarily been a special teams contributor the last two seasons. The redshirt junior has had a strong showing in preseason practices, with Brent Venables shouting him out as having "as good a camp as anyone" through the team's first six practices earlier this month. The 6-foot-1, 227-pounder has not only positioned himself to see the field more this season, but he could very well be listed on the two-deep at linebacker when Oklahoma unveils its season-opening depth chart next week.

"He's played really, really well," Venables said. "…You see a lot of hard work in the summer. He's super instinctive, very athletic, explosive tackler, good in space, excellent blitzer. He's got really nice instincts now on the ball."

 

Look out Louvre, Okoye is gonna come in and destroy the statue of Venus de Milo.

Posted
13 hours ago, Pods said:

Careful man. If you have a grand mal, that slates you as a starter for OU's OL. 

Beg to differ, I'm pretty sure heat stroke and practicing the next day gets one in the starting rotation. Grand mals, from said behavior keeps you on the 2 deep until December.

Posted
1 hour ago, closetojumping said:

Sooners Illustrated has published their depth chart prediction for the reason. It's spoilered below and it's a long scroll but a pretty straightforward read. They're not just throwing out wild guesses, this DC is based on practice observations and information gathering. I mock them often for their homerism, but that's part of their job. I actually think they do a good job as a group in terms publishing useful material.

Highlights:

-They're having to come clean at a lot of positions that the hype they've been putting on some guys isn't going to materialize, in many instances due to injury. 

-Ott is still struggling with a shoulder injury but they plan on starting him next Saturday.

-Jaydan Gibson, after all of the hype of being out of a boot and being ready at some point during camp, still isn't working out and they don't even bother mentioning him in this update. I consider that dude to be a ghost at this point. 

-The most hype transfer from UAPB ever, Javonnie Gibson, will not be starting the season suited out and is not on the chart either. 

-Venables' Center choice appears to have won the battle versus the guy that Nagy paid from Stanford, someone he's told people will be starting. 

-Just look at TE. Some dude from Kennesaw State. Another guy from Pittsburg State (KS). Jaren KanekKanek. 

-The Keontez Lewis dude wasn't mentioned as a factor in the WR corps until literally this week. He's starting. 

-Eli Bowen isn't listed.

-The Adebawore 5 star Edge is mentioned only in the vein that he may show up at some point. A guy named Taylor Wein, who was expected to be a garbage time player, is ahead of him on the depth chart.

-The defense is going to have to do a lot of work this season if this is a team with a record above 7-5. 

  Reveal hidden contents

Final Oklahoma football depth chart projection for 2025 season

One final depth chart projection for Oklahoma football's offense, defense and special teams with the Sooners' 2025 season opener a little more than a week away.

Tom GreenTom Green83 minsVIP4

 

 

NORMAN — The hay is in the barn, and Oklahoma is turning its attention to the start of the 2025 season.

For the last three-plus weeks, the Sooners have been prepping for what is shaping up to be a pivotal Year 4 for the program under head coach Brent Venables. Oklahoma is fresh off a disappointing first season in the SEC, in which the team finished 6-7 for the second time in three years, and is aiming for a big-time bounceback this fall. Venables is back in the saddle as the Sooners' defensive coordinator, taking over play-calling for a unit that has made strides in each of his first three years as head coach, while 29-year-old rising star Ben Arbuckle is charged with resuscitating the offense with his quarterback, John Mateer.

While Oklahoma returns seven regular starters from last year's defense, several positions have been up for grabs this preseason — with other returning starters fighting to maintain their roles. Offensively, there have been few sure things aside from Mateer's standing as QB1.

Oklahoma will roll out its official Week 1 depth chart ahead of Venables' weekly press conference Tuesday, but as the coaching staff puts the finishing touches on that initial two-deep this weekend, Sooners Illustrated is here to take a final stab at projecting OU's season-opening depth chart for the offense, defense and special teams. These projections are based on observations from available practice windows, information gleaned from speaking with Venables, six OU assistant coaches and 37 Sooners players over the last three-plus weeks, as well as feedback from other sources around the program.

So, with that being said, let's dive in…

 
 

OFFENSE

 

13238012.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: DOUG HOKE/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images, USA TODAY Sports)

 

QUARTERBACK

-- John Mateer, redshirt junior

-- Michael Hawkins Jr., sophomore

The 411: After starring at Washington State under Ben Arbuckle last season, Mateer followed his OC to Oklahoma and is set to take over as QB1. One of the most productive quarterbacks in the country last season, Mateer will try to replicate his success with the Sooners this fall. Since arriving in January, he has worked to leave his mark on the program and take ownership of the team—and by all accounts has. Hawkins, after starting a few games as a true freshman last season, has developed well thus far under Arbuckle and will serve as Oklahoma's backup.

 

RUNNING BACK

-- Jaydn Ott, senior

-- Jovantae Barnes, senior

The 411: Ott, the transfer from Cal, was Oklahoma's big splash addition during the spring portal window. Though he missed some time this preseason, he should be good to go for the opener and take over the lead role in the Sooners' backfield. While Ott was recovering from a shoulder issue for a portion of camp, Barnes handled primary reps with the offense. The real intrigue here is who will be No. 3 in the rotation to start the season after Xavier Robinson and Taylor Tatum both missed time this preseason, with freshman Tory Blaylock making the most of his quality reps and surging during camp.

 

 

 

 

13218731.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: DOUG HOKE/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images, USA TODAY Sports)

 

WIDE RECEIVER

-- Isaiah Sategna, redshirt junior

-- Zion Kearney, sophomore

The 411: Sategna, the transfer from Arkansas, has been tabbed as Mr. Reliable for Oklahoma this preseason while being the most consistent wide receiver in the room and establishing a strong rapport with Mateer. He should have a starting role essentially locked up, whether it's on the outside or in the slot. Kearney has been impressive this fall too, though he missed some time due to a concussion early in camp. When healthy, Kearney is a big-bodied playmaker who could stretch the field in Arbuckle's system.

 

WIDE RECEIVER

-- Keontez Lewis, redshirt senior

-- Elijah Thomas, freshman

The 411: This spot would likely belong to Javonnie Gibson, but the Arkansas-Pine Bluff transfer is still on the mend after an April leg injury. While he's expected back in the coming weeks, his absence opened the door for other candidates this preseason. Lewis was hampered in the spring due to a hamstring injury but has put together a strong fall while impressing teammates and coaches with his competitiveness and willingness to fight for contested catches. The Southern Illinois transfer, whom receivers coach Emmett Jones likened to CeeDee Lamb and Nic Anderson, seems like the favorite to be OU's other outside receiver when it opens the season, though Thomas — a true freshman — has had a quality fall as well, drawing comparisons to New York Giants wideout Malik Nabors while impressing with his explosiveness and natural pass-catching ability.

 

 

13221299.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: NATHAN J. FISH/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images, USA TODAY Sports)

 

SLOT RECEIVER

-- Deion Burks, redshirt senior

-- Jacob Jordan, sophomore OR

-- Josiah Martin, sophomore

The 411: Burks was supposed to be Oklahoma's prized portal addition a year ago, but he was limited to just five games due to injury last season. After deciding to come back for another year, he has solidified himself as the leader of Oklahoma's receiving corps and sure-fire starter, likely in the slot (though, like Sategna, he can play both inside and outside). Behind him, look for either Jordan, who made the most of his opportunities as a freshman walk-on last season, or Martin, the transfer from Cal.

 

TIGHT END

-- Carson Kent, redshirt junior

-- Will Huggins, redshirt senior OR

-- Jaren Kanak, senior

The 411: Tight end remains the most unproven position on Oklahoma's roster and the biggest question mark on the offense entering the season. Kent, the transfer from Kennesaw State, gets the nod here for the top spot as the most well-rounded option, but expect both Huggins and Kanak to play roles in the offense, with Kanak — the converted linebacker — likely serving as an H-back type who could make for an intriguing playmaker with the ball in his hands. Kaden Helms should also have some opportunities after he recovers from a hand injury he sustained early in the preseason.

 

 

13238020.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images, USA TODAY Sports)

 

LEFT TACKLE

-- Jacob Sexton, senior

-- Michael Fasusi, freshman

The 411: Sexton and Fasusi have been pushing each other for the job at left tackle, with Fasusi getting his share of first-team reps while Sexton missed some time earlier in the preseason. While Fasusi will play this season and have a real role in the rotation up front, Sexton — who has settled in at tackle after playing both tackle and guard last season — gets the nod for the starting job heading into Week 1.

 

LEFT GUARD

-- Heath Ozaeta, redshirt sophomore

-- Eddy Pierre-Louis, sophomore

The 411: Pierre-Louis was the hot name through the offseason and at the start of camp, but he's still honing his craft and working to strike a balance between his physicality and his precision at left guard. Meanwhile, Ozaeta has settled back into things in recent weeks after starting eight games last season but missing spring and much of summer due to a January shoulder procedure.

 

 

13238022.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: Andrew Dieb-Imagn Images, USA TODAY Sports)

 

CENTER

-- Troy Everett, redshirt senior

-- Jake Maikkula, redshirt junior

The 411: Everett has made the most of his first full offseason with Oklahoma (he was a summer addition prior to the 2023 season, and he sustained a knee injury in the spring that cost him the start of the 2024 season), developing into the unquestioned leader of the Sooners' offensive line. He should be back in his role as starting center, though Maikkula has made a strong push since transferring in from Stanford this summer. The competition, it seems, has brought out the best in both players.

 

RIGHT GUARD

-- Febechi Nwaiwu, redshirt senior

-- Ryan Fodje, freshman

The 411: Nwaiwu started all 13 games at right guard for OU last season and led all offensive linemen in snaps after transferring in from North Texas a year ago. While he was uneven as times last fall, Nwaiwu has been the Sooners' most consistent offensive lineman during the preseason and seems to have taken his game up a notch heading into Year 2 with the program. While Nwaiwu should hold onto his starting job at right guard, Fodje has looked good as a true freshman, with offensive line coach Bill Bedenbaugh saying Fodje and Fasusi are unlike any other freshmen he has coached during his decade-plus with the program. Fodje will play this season; it's just a matter of how much and what that role will look like.

 

RIGHT TACKLE

-- Logan Howland, redshirt sophomore

-- Derek Simmons, redshirt senior

The 411: After transferring in from Western Carolina, Simmons was the longstanding favorite to take over the open right tackle spot on Oklahoma's offensive line. That changed over the course of fall camp, as Simmons missed significant time due to a concussion. That opened the door for Howland, who started six games at left tackle last season before undergoing a labrum procedure in January. Howland was eased back into action this fall, and with Sexton and Fasusi looking good at left tackle, he switched over to the right side and took advantage of the opening at right tackle. Simmons could very well return to the starting role at some point, but based on how much time he missed this preseason, I expect Howland to get the nod heading into Week 1.

DEFENSE

 

13238024.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: DOUG HOKE/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images, USA TODAY Sports)

 

DEFENSIVE END

-- R Mason Thomas, senior

-- Danny Okoye, redshirt freshman

The 411: Thomas is back after an All-SEC season as a junior, and he'll lead the Sooners' efforts off the edge while trying to play himself into the first round of next year's NFL Draft. Behind him, Okoye has come on strong this preseason after redshirting last year. Arguably Oklahoma's most athletic player, Okoye should see quality reps this season behind Thomas, with Venables saying earlier in the week that the Sooners are eager to unleash the 6-foot-3, 251-pounder on the SEC this fall.

 

DEFENSIVE TACKLE

-- Jayden Jackson, sophomore

-- Gracen Halton, senior

The 411: Jackson earned a starting job this time last year as a true freshman, becoming the first freshman defensive lineman to start for Oklahoma since 2001. He made the most of it with a Freshman All-America campaign, and though he missed spring due to a January shoulder procedure, he has picked up this preseason right where he left off last year. Halton, back for his senior year, missed significant time during the preseason out of precaution due to injury but should be back in the fray for the start of the season. If Oklahoma decides to hold him back in Week 1 (with sights set on making sure he's 100% for the Michigan game in Week 2), expect either Markus Strong to be the likely fill-in.

 

 

13234586.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: DOUG HOKE/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images, USA TODAY Sports)

 

NOSE TACKLE

-- Damonic Williams, senior

-- David Stone, sophomore

The 411: Williams started all 12 regular-season games for Oklahoma in his first season with the program after transferring from TCU, and this offseason he has grown into more of a leader along the defensive line. He should be back in his starting role at nose tackle, though according to Venables, Stone has been "fighting" for a starting job after putting together a strong fall camp. The former five-star defensive tackle played a small role as a freshman last year and flirted with the transfer portal in April, but since withdrawing from the portal and returning to OU, coaches and teammates have seen a "different animal" — one who has put in all work that points toward a breakout season on the interior of a deep, talented defensive line.

 

DEFENSIVE END

-- Marvin Jones Jr., senior

-- Taylor Wein, redshirt sophomore

The 411: The most hotly contested spot on Oklahoma's defensive line has been the end opposite Thomas. Wein received ample buzz during the offseason and heading into fall camp, while Jones—the former five-star prospect with prior stops at Georgia and Florida State—was still settling into things during the spring. Jones has looked much improved during fall practices, and he seems to have the edge for the top spot heading into the opener, though Wein isn't far behind. Adepoju Adebawore, another former five-star, should also be in the mix for reps here. This is one of the spots where an "OR" on the official depth chart would not be a surprise.

 

 

13234997.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: NATHAN J. FISH/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images, USA TODAY Sports)

 

MIKE LINEBACKER

-- Kobie McKinzie, redshirt junior

-- Sammy Omosigho, junior

The 411: McKinzie should be stepping into the starting role previously held by All-American Danny Stutsman after being the third player in OU's three-man rotation at inside linebacker a year ago. He has received plenty of competition from Omosigho, even challenging him to come take the starting job from him in fall camp. It has been a healthy competition that has paid dividends for both players, especially for Omosigho as he has settled into the Mike linebacker role after spending the last two seasons focusing on Cheetah.

 

WILL LINEBACKER

-- Kip Lewis, redshirt junior

-- Owen Heinecke, redshirt junior

The 411: Lewis is back for his second full season starting at inside linebacker for Oklahoma and will try to build off a strong 2024 campaign in which he was third on the team in tackle and had a pair of pick-sixes in OU's two SEC wins. Behind him, Heinecke has emerged as a viable option at linebacker. The former walk-on has been primarily a special teams contributor the last two years but has developed into someone who has earned the respect of Venables and the coaching staff and could play a real role on defense this season.

 

CHEETAH LINEBACKER

-- Kendal Daniels, redshirt senior

-- Reggie Powers III, sophomore

The 411: Daniels has made himself at home in the Cheetah spot after transferring over from Oklahoma State in the offseason. The versatile veteran looks like he can be a real weapon for the Sooners this season and could get on the field in different roles (including inside linebacker, if needed). Powers has been one of the most impressive players on the defensive side of the ball, as the sophomore has been pushing for time at both Cheetah and safety — and should see the field in both spots. Both Daniels and Powers have made the case as guys who need to be on the field as much as possible and in any manner possible for Oklahoma's defense this season. Kendel Dolby, who worked his way back from a gruesome September ankle injury but has also missed time in the preseason, is another valuable option at Cheetah who's also expected to contribute at cornerback.

 

 

13224710.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: SARAH PHIPPS/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK, USA TODAY Sports)

 

CORNERBACK

-- Gentry Williams, redshirt junior

-- Jacobe Johnson, junior OR

-- Jeremiah Newcombe, redshirt freshman

The 411: Williams missed nearly all of last season due to a shoulder injury—the second year in a row he sustained an injury to his shoulder—but worked his way back into the fray after being limited in the spring. Now the "big brother" of the cornerback room, he should have a starting role so long as he can remain healthy. I'd expect either Johnson, who has been getting settled full-time at corner after moonlighting at wide receiver for part of last season, or Newcombe, the redshirt freshman who has also been repping some in the Cheetah rotation, to be listed in the backup spot. When Kendel Dolby is fully healthy after dealing with some nagging preseason issues, expect him to be in the rotation at cornerback and at Cheetah.

 

CORNERBACK

-- Devon Jordan, sophomore

-- Courtland Guillory, freshman

The 411: This would have been Eli Bowen's starting spot, but he has missed all of the preseason due to an ankle injury that has kept him in a protective boot. While cornerbacks coach Jay Valai expects Bowen, an ESPN Freshman All-American and OU's top cornerback last season, to be back in due time, his absence has meant opportunity for the Sooners' wave of young cornerbacks. It seems like every week has presented a different name emerging as a potential starter here, but I lean Jordan — the sophomore from Tulsa — over Guillory, the impressively confident true freshman who has been a favorite of Venables since the offseason.

 

 

13238038.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: John Reed-Imagn Images, USA TODAY Sports)

 

FREE SAFETY

-- Robert Spears-Jennings, senior

-- Michael Boganowski, sophomore

The 411: Spears-Jennings was somewhat quietly one of Oklahoma's best defensive players last season, and now he is back as the team's leading returning tackler. He'll be the starter at free safety for the second year in a row while stepping into a larger leadership role on the back end. Behind him, Boganowski is expected to be the backup, as the hard-hitting sophomore has had a solid offseason after getting his feet wet as a true freshman last year.

 

STRONG SAFETY

-- Peyton Bowen, junior

-- Reggie Powers III, sophomore

The 411: This is another spot that has had a healthy competition for the starting role, as Bowen — the former five-star prospect — has looked to return to form after begin hampered by a turf toe issue last season, and Powers has been one of the most impressive players on the defense while vying for reps at strong safety and Cheetah. I'm giving a healthy Bowen the nod here for the starting job, though I expect both to feature heavily into Oklahoma's defensive plans.

SPECIAL TEAMS

 

13204713.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320  (Photo: JAMES D. JACKSON, 247Sports)

 

KICKER

-- Tate Sandell, redshirt junior

-- Austin Welch, redshirt senior

The 411: Sandell has been as advertised after transferring in from UTSA this summer. That has included a 58-yard field goal during the team's second preseason scrimmage. Expect him to handle place-kicking duties, with Welch, the Kennesaw State transfer, backing him up after looking much better this fall than he did during an uneven spring for the Sooners' kickers.

 

PUNTER

-- Jacob Ulrich, redshirt sophomore

-- Grayson Miller, senior

The 411: Ulrich was among the better punters in the country last season at Kennesaw State, and now he's prepared to step into the starting role vacated by Luke Elzinga, who was quietly quite the weapon for Oklahoma the last two seasons in terms of the field-position battle. Miller, a transfer from UCO, should be next in line.

 

 

 

13238060.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,off (Photo: NATHAN J. FISH/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images, USA TODAY Sports)

 

KICKOFF RETURNERS

-- Elijah Thomas, freshman AND

-- Tory Blaylock, freshman

-- Jaydn Ott, senior AND

-- Zion Ragins, sophomore

The 411: The kickoff and punt return spots are more speculation than any other position, as we got limited opportunities to see the candidates for those spots during open practice periods. Ott may have the most upside (and experience) as a kickoff return specialist, but OU may opt to not force that onto his plate on top of his role as lead running back. Thomas and Blaylock have been a pair of impressive freshmen with explosive playmaking ability and could be intriguing options in the return game, if the Sooners choose to go in that direction.

 

PUNT RETURNERS

-- Isaiah Sategna, redshirt junior

-- Peyton Bowen, junior

The 411: Sategna and Bowen both bring experience to the return game. Bowen was Oklahoma's primary punt return specialist last season but had some issues fielding punts. He said this preseason that he hopes to be in that role again now that he's healthy, with his turf toe issue behind him. Sategna was among the early-camp options working on punt returns, and two years ago at Arkansas he was one of the nation's better punt returners.

 

 

13238048.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,off (Photo: Photo by Brian Bahr/Getty Images, Getty)

 

LONG SNAPPER

-- Ben Anderson, redshirt junior

-- Seth Freeman, freshman

The 411: Anderson is back as an All-SEC long snapper, serving as the triggerman for Oklahoma's special teams operations this season. Freeman, a freshman who signed with the program this offseason, waits in the wings.

 

HOLDER

-- Austin Welch, redshirt senior

-- Grayson Miller, senior

The 411: While Welch likely won't be Oklahoma's primary kicker, he was working as the holder for Sandell during an early-camp viewing window. Miller also repped there, though I wouldn't rule out Ulrich, who also has experience holding from his time at Kennesaw State.

 

If Venables plays Ott against Ill St. he's even dumber than I thought.

Posted
2 hours ago, closetojumping said:

TIGHT END

-- Carson Kent, redshirt junior

-- Will Huggins, redshirt senior OR

-- Jaren Kanak, senior

The 411: Tight end remains the most unproven position on Oklahoma's roster and the biggest question mark on the offense entering the season. Kent, the transfer from Kennesaw State, gets the nod here for the top spot as the most well-rounded option, but expect both Huggins and Kanak to play roles in the offense, with Kanak — the converted linebacker — likely serving as an H-back type who could make for an intriguing playmaker with the ball in his hands. Kaden Helms should also have some opportunities after he recovers from a hand injury he sustained early in the preseason.

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Posted
1 hour ago, HtownHorn said:

Wasn't he a LB at some point in the past?

Yes, that's where he started.  He was supposed to the next Isaiah Simmons.  Great athlete that was a tweener but could be a swiss army knife defender.  He played quarterback in high school.  He never developed the instincts to play defense at this level and is now 3rd on the depth chart at tight end. 

Posted (edited)

I’ve been reading SoonerScoop. They believe they have the nation’s best DL. Reason- it’s their deepest position, with the fewest concerns, so…it has to be the nation’s best?

I mean- you’d think they might take a look at a couple other team’s DLs, like Georgia or Ohio State? For comparison?

Edited by statsman
Posted (edited)

I’ve never seen a fanbase/mods so far apart on expectations and reality. Lehman recently said they’re going to win the national championship. 
 

That Michigan loss is going to hit like a ton of bricks. 

Edited by billfromlaketravis
Posted
On 8/22/2025 at 11:16 AM, closetojumping said:
  Hide contents

Miller also repped there, though I wouldn't rule out Ulrich, who also has experience holding from his time at Kennesaw State.

OU doesn't need anymore experienced holders.  They historically are really good at that and usually don't get flagged.

 

Posted
2 hours ago, statsman said:

I’ve been reading SoonerScoop. They believe they have the nation’s best DL. Reason- it’s their deepest position, with the fewest concerns, so…it has to be the nation’s best?

I mean- you’d think they might take a look at a couple other team’s DLs, like Georgia or Ohio State? For comparison?

I remember under chuckles when everyone thought our DL was going to dominate because how amazing they looked during spring/fall and it turned out they just looked that good because our OL was abysmal... that was a good time. 

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Posted
1 hour ago, Lou_Sassle said:

I remember under chuckles when everyone thought our DL was going to dominate because how amazing they looked during spring/fall and it turned out they just looked that good because our OL was abysmal... that was a good time. 

They’ve got that Tom Herman thing going, where, for example, we had a room full of WRs that were highly rated recruits, with none distinguishing themselves, and say, “we’re deep at that position”. Sark came in, fresh from his Alabama roster, and said, “Why do I have 18 WRs on scholarship, and none that can play?”

Posted

Allegedly, Ott has incentives in his NIL deal that require him to play to get some of his $.  He turned down a bigger guaranteed payday at Cal to get less total $ at OU and some of it is dependent on snaps.  Lulz.  He left cause his RB coach got shown the door and the new guy didn't coddle him and made him do up/downs when he missed blocks in Spring ball.  OU filled his ears with BS and he bought in.  So now he'll make less money, get killed behind OU's shit OL and the brutal schedule they play and probably lessen his chance at a good draft spot next season (if he gets drafted at all).  So fucking dumb

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Posted
21 hours ago, pyrofiend said:

OU just released their week 1 depth chart. As predicted by people here, it's a fucking mess.

oudepthchart.png.d5e571df0ac4f9433c00a4ca40fa4eca.png

 

There is some interesting and comical shit going on here.

1) Ott is not listed as the starter and is listed behind a true freshman. Now, he's had new injury problems in camp and has missed practices, so maybe that's the reasoning. Still, they and the national media have assumed his health, and they've used that to buoy their expectations of the offense this season. They had one of their beat guys on XM 84 last week specifically citing that "well, the offense will be better no matter what just due to Mateer and Ott at QB and RB". Well, if, lo and behold, they get the Ott more akin to 2024 than 2023, that immediately changes the color and shape of that offense. 

2) Venables said at SEC Media Days that Javonnie Gibson was out of his boot and would be participating in fall camp and early games. Dude hasn't run a drill yet and isn't listed. Neither is Jaydon Gibson, yet those two were cited all offseason as big reasons why the offense would be better this year as well. 

3) Jaren Kanak as the starting TE is hilarious. The okie boards are seeing this as a good thing. A sign of pure athleticism meeting terrific development by ol'Joe Jon. It's remarkable delusion to witness. I have been saying from the spring forward that their TE room looked like a plumber's ass crack, but even I didn't think it could be this bad.

4) They have 4 starting OL positions with "OR" as an option. One of those includes listing a true freshman first and another position includes listing 3 guys as costarters. OU fans and writers see this as depth. If you witnessed their OL last year and have followed all of their injury issues through this camp, you know it isn't depth, it's desperation. 

5) If Taylor Wein might start for you on the defensive front, maybe don't start calling that defensive front the best in college football. 

6) Eli Bowen is still in a boot. Is that dude even going to make it back for later in the season? 

7) Starting a true freshman at CB should go really well for them. I want to see that guy go up against the Auburn and Texas WR corps. 

This is a team that Phil Steele ranked #9 in the country. People are picking these guys as their CFP dark horse. 

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Posted

In catching up on the sooner thoughts regarding the depth chart, Ott at the 3rd RB spot is really polarizing. Guys are saying he's getting paid $800k and has been bragging about that in the locker room, that he's had a bad attitude and hasn't put the work in at practice. Some guys are using the move to rationalize that this is finally going to be Barnes' big year. It's all just outstanding. 

Venables indirectly shit talked Ott and several other guys on his call-in show, stating that "the best ability is availability" and they weren't just going to trot guys out for games who aren't able to push themselves in practices. This shit is great. 

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Posted

Spoilered is a roundtable of their writers discussing expectations this season. 

Highlights: 

-8-4 is the floor for the team to be viewed as a "success" this season, with one of the guys calling for a playoff run.

-They really think Ott, Arbuckle and Mateer are the truth and will transform their putrid offense into a top 30 scoring offense. 

-One guy touches on their CB room being a potential disaster. This almost reads like foreshadowing. 

Spoiler

Sooners Illustrated Roundtable: What to expect from Oklahoma in pivotal Year 4 under Brent Venables

The Sooners Illustrated staff answers questions and makes predictions about what to expect from Oklahoma in Year 4 under Brent Venables ahead of the team's season opener.

Tom GreenTom Green3 hrsVIP9

 

 

NORMAN — We survived another offseason, folks.

Week 1 of the 2025 season has arrived, and with it, Year 4 for Oklahoma under head coach Brent Venables. Oklahoma opens the season Saturday at home against Illinois State (No. 6 in the FCS preseason rankings), with kickoff set for 5 p.m. inside Oklahoma Memorial Stadium and the game streaming on ESPN+/SEC Network+.

It will be a fresh start for the Sooners, who are looking to rebound after a brutally disappointing inaugural first season in the SEC. Oklahoma posted its second losing campaign in three seasons under Venables, finishing 6-7 overall and just 2-6 in league play, as an improved defense was weighed down by a historically dismal offense that was ravaged by injuries at wide receiver and offensive line. Following an offseason of change — including the hiring of 29-year-old offensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle and the addition of quarterback John Mateer, both from Washington State — the 2025 season has arrived with renewed hope, as the Sooners aim to turn things around this fall, albeit against perhaps the nation's most daunting schedule.

Before Oklahoma sets out on its 2025 campaign this weekend, the staff at Sooners Illustrated wanted to set the scene for the upcoming season with a roundtable previewing the season and what we expect from Team 131, including some predictions on how the year plays out. So, without further ado, let's dive in…

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1. After the disappointment of last season’s 6-7 mark, what would you consider to be a “successful” season for Oklahoma this fall?

 

 

13244400.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: DOUG HOKE/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images, USA TODAY Sports)

 

Collin Kennedy: I think an 8-4 record at the end of the regular season definitely marks a "successful" year. Add in a bowl win, hard to be upset about that type of campaign. Especially when you consider not just the difficult schedule, but the amount of change that's taken place behind the scenes, to go 8-4 or better amidst plenty of challenges and transition would be a win.

Josh Callaway: There's always nuance to these things because a lot of what would be a "successful" season is hard to quantify in that it'll lie in what the actual product looks like on the field on Saturdays. That said, Oklahoma has to win at least eight games this year. That's a bare minimum. Truthfully, nine wins is what I would consider a successful season. But even then, nuance is needed. Were the three losses blowouts? Did they beat Texas? Do they have one or two signature wins? These are all questions that will influence how good the season was beyond just the record. But, in no way is 7-5 an acceptable year — no matter what.

James D. Jackson: Given the difficulty of the schedule, I think 9-3 gets Oklahoma into the College Football Playoff. I don't think a blueblood like Oklahoma can have a season that's deemed successful without advancing to the 12-team postseason format. 

Tom Green: The baseline for success this year, against this schedule, has to be an 8-4 regular season. Another year of going 6-6 (or even 7-5) won't cut it for Brent Venables. An eight-win regular season gives you a chance to win nine games overall, including a bowl game. If Oklahoma can get to nine regular-season wins, it should be in the conversation for the College Football Playoff.

 

 

2. What are your realistic expectations for Oklahoma’s offense in its first year under Ben Arbuckle and with John Mateer at quarterback?

 

 

13244402.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images, USA TODAY Sports)

 

Collin: I think this group has a chance to be very fun to watch. It wouldn't shock me if this is one of the better units in the Southeastern Conference or even from a national perspective. I think Ben Arbuckle has a chance to solidify himself as one of the best young offensive minds in the sport right now and I really think John Mateer has what it takes to be a household name in college football. Now, do I expect a top-five group, a Heisman Trophy or anything of the sort? Probably not. But for me, this is more about returning to offensive capabilities OU is used to, and I think this group can meet and then exceed expectations.

Josh: I'm trying to keep it measured here because expecting these guys to just come in and immediately start lighting it up probably isn't realistic or fair. However, I do think this offense has a chance to be legitimately good. There are still questions on the offensive line and even really at wide receiver, but when you've got the quarterback and the offensive coordinator in place — you're in really good shape. Add in a star running back, and I think this could be one of the top six or seven offenses in the SEC. 

James: I think it'll be a lot more cohesive with plenty more explosive plays. Overall, the Sooners will be better at passing and running the ball, which has a lot to do with the added personnel, but Arbuckle's scheme will be effective as well. Oklahoma's offensive line looks to be much improved, which will also make things easier.

Tom: This is hard to gauge, because Ben Arbuckle doesn't have an extensive track record to really draw from. He has been an offensive play-caller at the FBS level for three years (Western Kentucky in 2022 and Washington State in 2023-24). His offense finished top-15 in scoring in his lone year at WKU, 38th in his first year at Washington State and then sixth last season. Arbuckle will benefit from having a returning starter at quarterback in John Mateer, and this will easily be the most talent he has had to work with on the roster—but it will also be the toughest schedule he'll face throughout a season, with five top-10 units (and nine top-25 defenses) on the schedule this season, according to ESPN's SP+. That being said, I fully expect this unit to be much improved from last year's paltry offense, and I believe that a top-30 scoring offense is a realistic expectation — with a ceiling that's higher than that, assuming health and other things break right for the Sooners.

3. What’s your biggest concern about the team heading into the season?

 

 

13244403.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: NATHAN J. FISH/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images, USA TODAY Sports)

 

Collin: If I'm really honest, I think I'd go back to the offensive line. It feels like there's been a complete elevation of the group compared to last year. But seeing it play out on the field? The proof everyone needs. Especially when bumps and bruises create more shuffling in fall camp. Now, it is nice to have an opener like Illinois State to essentially allow an extension of competition from fall camp. But if a lot of the positive discussion surrounding this group, from the talent to depth, doesn't show itself, then we have to drastically shift expectations for the season. For the record, I do think this offensive line is going to be much improved. And I'm not saying it is a concern right now. But really, I'm saying it could be and that at least has to be accounted for.

Josh: Simply put: Does this team know how to win? Over the last three years, we've seen Oklahoma blow a lot of games it should have won. That includes the 2023 season when it won ten games. Those losses to Kansas and Oklahoma State that year have been as egregious as any in the Venables tenure. This team is going to be in position to get wins this fall, I believe that. But can they get the drive when they need it or a big stop late to seal the deal? That's what they still have to prove they can do consistently. 

James: The cornerback room is somewhat inexperienced behind Gentry Williams and Eli Bowen. Bowen is already missing time due to an ankle injury, and Williams has had a shoulder injury take him off the field for two seasons. There's a scenario where both Freshman All-American Eli Bowen and NFL-talent Gentry Williams are both on the field at the same time. But there's also a scenario where Oklahoma is forced to play some inexperienced freshmen in the critical spots of ball games.

Tom: While I expect the offensive line to be considerably better than last season, when injuries and poor play resulted in Oklahoma allowing the most sacks in the country and struggling to consistently establish the run, that unit is still the biggest concern, so to speak. The Sooners are deeper and more talented in Bill Bedenbaugh's room than they were a year ago—and they're also much healthier up front. By all accounts, the offensive line is in completely different spot than it was last season, but until that group goes out and proves it on Saturdays, I think it's understandable to have some apprehension about the unit. I said it last year, and I'll say it again going into this season: Oklahoma's offensive line will either raise the ceiling for this team, or it will lower its floor.

4. Who do you think will be the team’s most important (not necessarily its best) offensive player, and why?

 

 

13244406.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: DOUG HOKE/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images, USA TODAY Sports)

 

Collin: I know everyone is going to list quarterback John Mateer here, and rightfully so, because he is the pick. I don't know the rest of the staff's answers, but I wouldn't be surprised if trying to go away from the Mateer path led to responses like Jaydn Ott or a receiver. So, for the sake of discussion and this piece, I'll try to take this angle. Is it Troy Everett? He's the guy touching the ball every single play. He's healthy and staritng out the year, different from last year, a subtly necessary presence for the offensive line. But he's also going to be someone who keeps this team from doubt. We've heard a lot about not only how vocal a leader Everett is, but how adamant he's been behind the scenes that this team has to be better than last year. When adversity hits, and memories from a year ago trickle in, Everett is going to be the leader OU needs to stifle those thoughts. And again, his direction will impact the offensive line and the team in general. Everett has a pretty important job description, he plays a premium position, and he should get to have a say in how things go for a full year. I'm interested to see how that helps this team.

Josh: The most important has to be John Mateer; it all starts at quarterback. But, for the sake of conversation, I'll note that Deion Burks really needs to have a good year — both for the team and himself personally. This wide receiver room has talent but is basically entirely brand new and made up of guys that will be leaned upon at a stage as big as Oklahoma for the first time. Burks needs to be able to stay on the field and productive to really make this position reach its top level.

James: John Mateer knows the offense better than anyone else, having been in it for a couple of years. He's the most important offensive player for that reason. 

Tom: John Mateer is the layup here, but I'm going to go with running back Jaydn Ott—even after he debuted at No. 3 on the Sooners' season-opening depth chart. He missed some time in the preseason with a shoulder injury, but I still expect him to be the team's lead back this season and when it matters most. The Cal transfer is a supremely talented three-down back with great vision, shiftiness in the open field, tackle-breaking ability and a penchant for explosive plays. Simply put, the Sooners haven't had a running back quite like him during Venables' tenure. Add in his ability to split out wide and contribute in the passing game, and it's clear that he'll be a valuable weapon in Ben Arbuckle's offensive arsenal.

5. Who do you think will be the team’s defensive MVP, and why?

 

 

13244417.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,off (Photo: DOUG HOKE/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images, USA TODAY Sports)

 

Collin: The clear pick here is R Mason Thomas. But I also think Robert Spears-Jennings deserves to be chosen. Oklahoma likes to do a lot with its defensive line and its safety group. Spears-Jennings is the epitome of that. The amount of ground he covers in a game, whether he's starting out or finishing the play in the back end or up on the line of scrimmage, is wildly impressive. He's a chess piece and a leader who backs it up with his play. I think Spears-Jennings is in for a massive year and will prove why he's a foundational piece of this defense.

Josh: I'm completely in on R Mason Thomas being an All-SEC level of player in 2025. We saw it in spurts last year, and he has followed that up with a great offseason. The speed and power he has off the edge should give OU every single chance to create some huge negative plays defensively this fall. When it's the fourth quarter, and it's a big 3rd-and-8 with the game on the line, I'm looking for Thomas to get after the quarterback and make a play. He's the go-to guy on this defense for me. 

James: R Mason Thomas will be the tone-setter for the team, and he has the ability to back up his words with action. Oklahoma likely has a top defensive line in the country, and that starts with the pass-rushing ability of Thomas, who believes he has only added to his game after a great season last year.

Tom: R Mason Thomas will put up the big numbers, but I'm going to go with another crucial piece of Oklahoma's defensive line — a unit that has a chance to be one of the best in the country this year. My vote here goes to Jayden Jackson, the sophomore defensive tackle who is an absolute anchor in the middle of that defensive front. Jackson was a Freshman All-American last season while playing through a torn labrum. He got it fixed in January and is 100% heading into the season. That's a scary proposition, considering how well he played as a true freshman. I don't expect Jackson to put up gaudy numbers, but his ability to hold the point of attack and absorb double-teams will go a long way toward Oklahoma's ability to stop the run and affect opposing quarterbacks this fall.

Lightning round predictions

 

13218731.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: DOUG HOKE/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images, USA TODAY Sports)

 

 -- _____ will be the biggest surprise player for Oklahoma this season.

Collin: Isaiah Sategna

Josh: Jaren Kanak

James: Danny Okoye

Tom: Isaiah Sategna

 -- _____ will be Oklahoma's biggest transfer addition, other than John Mateer.

Collin: Jaydn Ott

Josh: Kendal Daniels

James: Kendal Daniels

Tom: Jaydn Ott

-- _____ will be Oklahoma's best freshman this season.

Collin: Courtland Guillory

Josh: Michael Fasusi

James: Courtland Guillory

Tom: Courtland Guillory

 

 

13244424.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,off (Photo: BRYAN TERRY/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images, USA TODAY Sports)

 

-- Oklahoma's biggest win this season will be against _____

Collin: South Carolina on the road

Josh: Texas

James: LSU. The final win of the regular season will get Oklahoma into the playoff.

Tom: Tennessee on the road to kick off November.

-- Oklahoma's most important game entering the year is against ____

Collin: Michigan

Josh: Auburn

James: Texas

Tom: Auburn. Winning that SEC opener, at home and against former OU quarterback Jackson Arnold, will be necessary considering what awaits on the schedule later in the season.

-- True or false: Oklahoma will finish the season with a top-20 scoring defense.

Collin: True

Josh: True

James: True, OU was No. 29 last season, and I think they would have been inside the top 20 if they weren't forced to defend so many possessions per game.

Tom: True.

-- True or false: Oklahoma will finish the season with a top-25 scoring offense.

Collin: True

Josh: False

James: True, Ben Arbuckle guided Washington State to a top-10 finish in this category. And Brent Venables has expressed that this offense looks more like the Sooners in 2023, which easily made the cut for a top-25 finish.

Tom: False, but it will be close.

 

  • Hook 'Em 2
  • Haha 1
Posted
On 8/21/2025 at 7:02 PM, LTtxfan said:

SIAP...

Oklahoma quarterback John Mateer's NIL salary revealed

image.thumb.jpeg.577dba336303146e0bf12fd08624aa33.jpeg

Originally posted on SI  |  By JC Shelton  |  Updated Aug 21, 2025 

 

I'm still trying to figure out where the hype comes from for  this guy.  Played an outlaw schedule in a fake conference and they didn't blow any team out of the water but got blown out themselves against Syracuse in their bowl game.  They got beat by the likes of New Mexico and Wyoming to along with razor thin wins against San Jose and San Diego State.   And he's being counted on to help save Burnt Veggies job?   

Posted
45 minutes ago, closetojumping said:

Spoilered is a roundtable of their writers discussing expectations this season. 

Highlights: 

-8-4 is the floor for the team to be viewed as a "success" this season, with one of the guys calling for a playoff run.

-They really think Ott, Arbuckle and Mateer are the truth and will transform their putrid offense into a top 30 scoring offense. 

-One guy touches on their CB room being a potential disaster. This almost reads like foreshadowing. 

  Reveal hidden contents

Sooners Illustrated Roundtable: What to expect from Oklahoma in pivotal Year 4 under Brent Venables

The Sooners Illustrated staff answers questions and makes predictions about what to expect from Oklahoma in Year 4 under Brent Venables ahead of the team's season opener.

Tom GreenTom Green3 hrsVIP9

 

 

NORMAN — We survived another offseason, folks.

Week 1 of the 2025 season has arrived, and with it, Year 4 for Oklahoma under head coach Brent Venables. Oklahoma opens the season Saturday at home against Illinois State (No. 6 in the FCS preseason rankings), with kickoff set for 5 p.m. inside Oklahoma Memorial Stadium and the game streaming on ESPN+/SEC Network+.

It will be a fresh start for the Sooners, who are looking to rebound after a brutally disappointing inaugural first season in the SEC. Oklahoma posted its second losing campaign in three seasons under Venables, finishing 6-7 overall and just 2-6 in league play, as an improved defense was weighed down by a historically dismal offense that was ravaged by injuries at wide receiver and offensive line. Following an offseason of change — including the hiring of 29-year-old offensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle and the addition of quarterback John Mateer, both from Washington State — the 2025 season has arrived with renewed hope, as the Sooners aim to turn things around this fall, albeit against perhaps the nation's most daunting schedule.

Before Oklahoma sets out on its 2025 campaign this weekend, the staff at Sooners Illustrated wanted to set the scene for the upcoming season with a roundtable previewing the season and what we expect from Team 131, including some predictions on how the year plays out. So, without further ado, let's dive in…

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1. After the disappointment of last season’s 6-7 mark, what would you consider to be a “successful” season for Oklahoma this fall?

 

13244400.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: DOUG HOKE/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images, USA TODAY Sports)

 

Collin Kennedy: I think an 8-4 record at the end of the regular season definitely marks a "successful" year. Add in a bowl win, hard to be upset about that type of campaign. Especially when you consider not just the difficult schedule, but the amount of change that's taken place behind the scenes, to go 8-4 or better amidst plenty of challenges and transition would be a win.

Josh Callaway: There's always nuance to these things because a lot of what would be a "successful" season is hard to quantify in that it'll lie in what the actual product looks like on the field on Saturdays. That said, Oklahoma has to win at least eight games this year. That's a bare minimum. Truthfully, nine wins is what I would consider a successful season. But even then, nuance is needed. Were the three losses blowouts? Did they beat Texas? Do they have one or two signature wins? These are all questions that will influence how good the season was beyond just the record. But, in no way is 7-5 an acceptable year — no matter what.

James D. Jackson: Given the difficulty of the schedule, I think 9-3 gets Oklahoma into the College Football Playoff. I don't think a blueblood like Oklahoma can have a season that's deemed successful without advancing to the 12-team postseason format. 

Tom Green: The baseline for success this year, against this schedule, has to be an 8-4 regular season. Another year of going 6-6 (or even 7-5) won't cut it for Brent Venables. An eight-win regular season gives you a chance to win nine games overall, including a bowl game. If Oklahoma can get to nine regular-season wins, it should be in the conversation for the College Football Playoff.

 

 

2. What are your realistic expectations for Oklahoma’s offense in its first year under Ben Arbuckle and with John Mateer at quarterback?

 

13244402.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images, USA TODAY Sports)

 

Collin: I think this group has a chance to be very fun to watch. It wouldn't shock me if this is one of the better units in the Southeastern Conference or even from a national perspective. I think Ben Arbuckle has a chance to solidify himself as one of the best young offensive minds in the sport right now and I really think John Mateer has what it takes to be a household name in college football. Now, do I expect a top-five group, a Heisman Trophy or anything of the sort? Probably not. But for me, this is more about returning to offensive capabilities OU is used to, and I think this group can meet and then exceed expectations.

Josh: I'm trying to keep it measured here because expecting these guys to just come in and immediately start lighting it up probably isn't realistic or fair. However, I do think this offense has a chance to be legitimately good. There are still questions on the offensive line and even really at wide receiver, but when you've got the quarterback and the offensive coordinator in place — you're in really good shape. Add in a star running back, and I think this could be one of the top six or seven offenses in the SEC. 

James: I think it'll be a lot more cohesive with plenty more explosive plays. Overall, the Sooners will be better at passing and running the ball, which has a lot to do with the added personnel, but Arbuckle's scheme will be effective as well. Oklahoma's offensive line looks to be much improved, which will also make things easier.

Tom: This is hard to gauge, because Ben Arbuckle doesn't have an extensive track record to really draw from. He has been an offensive play-caller at the FBS level for three years (Western Kentucky in 2022 and Washington State in 2023-24). His offense finished top-15 in scoring in his lone year at WKU, 38th in his first year at Washington State and then sixth last season. Arbuckle will benefit from having a returning starter at quarterback in John Mateer, and this will easily be the most talent he has had to work with on the roster—but it will also be the toughest schedule he'll face throughout a season, with five top-10 units (and nine top-25 defenses) on the schedule this season, according to ESPN's SP+. That being said, I fully expect this unit to be much improved from last year's paltry offense, and I believe that a top-30 scoring offense is a realistic expectation — with a ceiling that's higher than that, assuming health and other things break right for the Sooners.

3. What’s your biggest concern about the team heading into the season?

 

13244403.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: NATHAN J. FISH/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images, USA TODAY Sports)

 

Collin: If I'm really honest, I think I'd go back to the offensive line. It feels like there's been a complete elevation of the group compared to last year. But seeing it play out on the field? The proof everyone needs. Especially when bumps and bruises create more shuffling in fall camp. Now, it is nice to have an opener like Illinois State to essentially allow an extension of competition from fall camp. But if a lot of the positive discussion surrounding this group, from the talent to depth, doesn't show itself, then we have to drastically shift expectations for the season. For the record, I do think this offensive line is going to be much improved. And I'm not saying it is a concern right now. But really, I'm saying it could be and that at least has to be accounted for.

Josh: Simply put: Does this team know how to win? Over the last three years, we've seen Oklahoma blow a lot of games it should have won. That includes the 2023 season when it won ten games. Those losses to Kansas and Oklahoma State that year have been as egregious as any in the Venables tenure. This team is going to be in position to get wins this fall, I believe that. But can they get the drive when they need it or a big stop late to seal the deal? That's what they still have to prove they can do consistently. 

James: The cornerback room is somewhat inexperienced behind Gentry Williams and Eli Bowen. Bowen is already missing time due to an ankle injury, and Williams has had a shoulder injury take him off the field for two seasons. There's a scenario where both Freshman All-American Eli Bowen and NFL-talent Gentry Williams are both on the field at the same time. But there's also a scenario where Oklahoma is forced to play some inexperienced freshmen in the critical spots of ball games.

Tom: While I expect the offensive line to be considerably better than last season, when injuries and poor play resulted in Oklahoma allowing the most sacks in the country and struggling to consistently establish the run, that unit is still the biggest concern, so to speak. The Sooners are deeper and more talented in Bill Bedenbaugh's room than they were a year ago—and they're also much healthier up front. By all accounts, the offensive line is in completely different spot than it was last season, but until that group goes out and proves it on Saturdays, I think it's understandable to have some apprehension about the unit. I said it last year, and I'll say it again going into this season: Oklahoma's offensive line will either raise the ceiling for this team, or it will lower its floor.

4. Who do you think will be the team’s most important (not necessarily its best) offensive player, and why?

 

13244406.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: DOUG HOKE/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images, USA TODAY Sports)

 

Collin: I know everyone is going to list quarterback John Mateer here, and rightfully so, because he is the pick. I don't know the rest of the staff's answers, but I wouldn't be surprised if trying to go away from the Mateer path led to responses like Jaydn Ott or a receiver. So, for the sake of discussion and this piece, I'll try to take this angle. Is it Troy Everett? He's the guy touching the ball every single play. He's healthy and staritng out the year, different from last year, a subtly necessary presence for the offensive line. But he's also going to be someone who keeps this team from doubt. We've heard a lot about not only how vocal a leader Everett is, but how adamant he's been behind the scenes that this team has to be better than last year. When adversity hits, and memories from a year ago trickle in, Everett is going to be the leader OU needs to stifle those thoughts. And again, his direction will impact the offensive line and the team in general. Everett has a pretty important job description, he plays a premium position, and he should get to have a say in how things go for a full year. I'm interested to see how that helps this team.

Josh: The most important has to be John Mateer; it all starts at quarterback. But, for the sake of conversation, I'll note that Deion Burks really needs to have a good year — both for the team and himself personally. This wide receiver room has talent but is basically entirely brand new and made up of guys that will be leaned upon at a stage as big as Oklahoma for the first time. Burks needs to be able to stay on the field and productive to really make this position reach its top level.

James: John Mateer knows the offense better than anyone else, having been in it for a couple of years. He's the most important offensive player for that reason. 

Tom: John Mateer is the layup here, but I'm going to go with running back Jaydn Ott—even after he debuted at No. 3 on the Sooners' season-opening depth chart. He missed some time in the preseason with a shoulder injury, but I still expect him to be the team's lead back this season and when it matters most. The Cal transfer is a supremely talented three-down back with great vision, shiftiness in the open field, tackle-breaking ability and a penchant for explosive plays. Simply put, the Sooners haven't had a running back quite like him during Venables' tenure. Add in his ability to split out wide and contribute in the passing game, and it's clear that he'll be a valuable weapon in Ben Arbuckle's offensive arsenal.

5. Who do you think will be the team’s defensive MVP, and why?

 

13244417.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,off (Photo: DOUG HOKE/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images, USA TODAY Sports)

 

Collin: The clear pick here is R Mason Thomas. But I also think Robert Spears-Jennings deserves to be chosen. Oklahoma likes to do a lot with its defensive line and its safety group. Spears-Jennings is the epitome of that. The amount of ground he covers in a game, whether he's starting out or finishing the play in the back end or up on the line of scrimmage, is wildly impressive. He's a chess piece and a leader who backs it up with his play. I think Spears-Jennings is in for a massive year and will prove why he's a foundational piece of this defense.

Josh: I'm completely in on R Mason Thomas being an All-SEC level of player in 2025. We saw it in spurts last year, and he has followed that up with a great offseason. The speed and power he has off the edge should give OU every single chance to create some huge negative plays defensively this fall. When it's the fourth quarter, and it's a big 3rd-and-8 with the game on the line, I'm looking for Thomas to get after the quarterback and make a play. He's the go-to guy on this defense for me. 

James: R Mason Thomas will be the tone-setter for the team, and he has the ability to back up his words with action. Oklahoma likely has a top defensive line in the country, and that starts with the pass-rushing ability of Thomas, who believes he has only added to his game after a great season last year.

Tom: R Mason Thomas will put up the big numbers, but I'm going to go with another crucial piece of Oklahoma's defensive line — a unit that has a chance to be one of the best in the country this year. My vote here goes to Jayden Jackson, the sophomore defensive tackle who is an absolute anchor in the middle of that defensive front. Jackson was a Freshman All-American last season while playing through a torn labrum. He got it fixed in January and is 100% heading into the season. That's a scary proposition, considering how well he played as a true freshman. I don't expect Jackson to put up gaudy numbers, but his ability to hold the point of attack and absorb double-teams will go a long way toward Oklahoma's ability to stop the run and affect opposing quarterbacks this fall.

Lightning round predictions

 

13218731.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,offset-y0.50&width=620&height=320 (Photo: DOUG HOKE/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images, USA TODAY Sports)

 

 -- _____ will be the biggest surprise player for Oklahoma this season.

Collin: Isaiah Sategna

Josh: Jaren Kanak

James: Danny Okoye

Tom: Isaiah Sategna

 -- _____ will be Oklahoma's biggest transfer addition, other than John Mateer.

Collin: Jaydn Ott

Josh: Kendal Daniels

James: Kendal Daniels

Tom: Jaydn Ott

-- _____ will be Oklahoma's best freshman this season.

Collin: Courtland Guillory

Josh: Michael Fasusi

James: Courtland Guillory

Tom: Courtland Guillory

 

 

13244424.jpg?fit=bounds&crop=620:320,off (Photo: BRYAN TERRY/THE OKLAHOMAN / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images, USA TODAY Sports)

 

-- Oklahoma's biggest win this season will be against _____

Collin: South Carolina on the road

Josh: Texas

James: LSU. The final win of the regular season will get Oklahoma into the playoff.

Tom: Tennessee on the road to kick off November.

-- Oklahoma's most important game entering the year is against ____

Collin: Michigan

Josh: Auburn

James: Texas

Tom: Auburn. Winning that SEC opener, at home and against former OU quarterback Jackson Arnold, will be necessary considering what awaits on the schedule later in the season.

-- True or false: Oklahoma will finish the season with a top-20 scoring defense.

Collin: True

Josh: True

James: True, OU was No. 29 last season, and I think they would have been inside the top 20 if they weren't forced to defend so many possessions per game.

Tom: True.

-- True or false: Oklahoma will finish the season with a top-25 scoring offense.

Collin: True

Josh: False

James: True, Ben Arbuckle guided Washington State to a top-10 finish in this category. And Brent Venables has expressed that this offense looks more like the Sooners in 2023, which easily made the cut for a top-25 finish.

Tom: False, but it will be close.

 

I hope that team is the disaster I expect them to be. I’m thinking 6-7 again. 

  • Drool 1
Posted
1 hour ago, closetojumping said:

In catching up on the sooner thoughts regarding the depth chart, Ott at the 3rd RB spot is really polarizing. Guys are saying he's getting paid $800k and has been bragging about that in the locker room, that he's had a bad attitude and hasn't put the work in at practice. Some guys are using the move to rationalize that this is finally going to be Barnes' big year. It's all just outstanding. 

Venables indirectly shit talked Ott and several other guys on his call-in show, stating that "the best ability is availability" and they weren't just going to trot guys out for games who aren't able to push themselves in practices. This shit is great. 

You are doing the Lord’s work, good sir. Of your many contributions to the site, your research and analysis of our chief enemy may be what I appreciate most. As South Austin’s mom is known to frequently say, “Don’t stop!”

  • Hook 'Em 2

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