The Oklahoma Sooners, a program synonymous with success in college football, find themselves navigating uncharted territory. After a disappointing 6-7 season in 2024, the Sooners are facing a period of uncertainty and rebuilding. This uncertainty is reflected in the early preseason rankings, with some outlets, such as ESPN, notably omitting them from their top 25 lists.
While ESPN’s omission might seem surprising for a program with a rich history and tradition, it’s a reflection of the Sooners’ recent struggles. Two losing seasons in three years, coupled with a failure to reach the College Football Playoff since 2019, have undoubtedly impacted the program’s national perception.
However, it’s important to note that Oklahoma has not entirely fallen off the radar. On3’s preseason rankings included the Sooners at No. 18, acknowledging the potential for a resurgence under the leadership of head coach Brent Venables.
The Sooners have taken significant steps to address their shortcomings. The hiring of Ben Arbuckle, a rising star in the coaching world, as the new offensive coordinator injects a fresh perspective and a proven offensive system. The addition of highly-touted quarterback John Mateer from the transfer portal further bolsters their offensive potential.
Despite these positive developments, the Sooners face a challenging road ahead. They must navigate a daunting SEC schedule, including matchups against several top-ranked opponents. Furthermore, they need to demonstrate significant improvement on both sides of the ball, particularly on offense, where they struggled to consistently score points in 2024.
While the initial preseason rankings may not reflect the lofty expectations of the past, they serve as a reminder of the challenges that lie ahead for the Sooners. However, with a talented coaching staff, a promising young quarterback, and a renewed focus on improvement, Oklahoma certainly has the potential to reclaim its position as a dominant force in college football in 2025.
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