Weekend Open Post | August 1st – 3rd
Posted on: August 1, 2025
Sooners Sunday | Fast-Five = Fab Five Freshmen
– Charlie S – Posted on: July 27, 2025
Happy Sunday!
Let’s talk about a handful of freshmen that I believe will have an impact for the Sooners on the field in the 2025 season!
OL Michael Fasusi. A consensus five-star offensive tackle out of high school, Fasusi (6’5, 300) impressed in spring ball with solid technical ability and athleticism that is rare for a true freshman. He was described as a guy who came to win a job. While experienced tackles like Logan Howland, Jacob Sexton, and Derek Simmons are ahead as camp begins, Fasusi’s potential and the need for offensive line depth make him a candidate for backup or even starting reps by season’s end.
WR Elijah Thomas. Thomas showed promise in one-on-one drills during spring practices as well as being consistently mentioned as a difference maker in player-led 7v7 outings. With the Sooners’ passing game needing a boost after a lackluster 2024, his athleticism could secure him a role in the receiver rotation. As we have noted repeatedly since he arrived on campus, no freshman receiver has received this level of hype since CeeDee Lamb. Not saying he will be CeeDee or have CeeDee’s freshman year, but things line up to where he certainly could have a CeeDee-esque/Marvin Mims type year one.
CB Courtland Guillory. Guillory capitalized on his opportunity due to injuries to cornerbacks Eli Bowen and Gentry Williams during spring, earning first-team reps. At 6’0 and 180 pounds, his size, competitiveness, and effort make him a strong candidate for playing time in the secondary, especially against SEC receivers. Guillory is a guy who has kept his head down and worked hard since arriving in Norman, and I expect to see him work his way toward the top of the depth chart early in the season.
S Omarion Robinson. A safety with tremendous range and instincts, Robinson was praised by coach Brent Venables for his natural ability. While the Sooners have a very solid 2-deep in the safety room with RSJ, Peyton Bowen, Jayden Hardy, and Michael Boganowski/Reggie Powers, the departure of Billy Bowman creates opportunities for snaps, likely on special teams or in sub-packages. The buzz around Robinson has actually picked up in the summer, which tells you he is continuing to do what is necessary to have an impact on the field this year. As I mentioned, it could come on special teams, but it does feel like Robinson will make a mark this season.
OL Ryan Fodje. At 6-foot-5 and 324 pounds, Fodje’s size, strength, and movement ability impressed in spring ball, setting him up as a potential contributor at guard. With Oklahoma’s offensive line needing depth, Fodje could compete for snaps, especially under coach Bill Bedenbaugh’s history of playing talented freshmen (yes, there is a history, we just want him to revert back to that history). Much in the same way as Michael Fasusi, sources rave about Fodje’s work ethic and determination to get better with every rep and every drill.
Three Key Games for 2025
– Charlie S – Posted on: July 28, 2025
Wanna call them must-wins?
Wanna call them, cannot afford to lose uglies?
However you want to label them, I think these three games are ones that need to be pinned by every OU fan.
Based on the 2025 Sooners schedule and the context of the challenges they face with the SEC slate, three of the most important games for OU to win in order to maximize their season’s success, boost playoff contention, and shift program perception are:
vs. Michigan (September 6, 2025, Norman, OK)
This Week 2 non-conference matchup against a power program is critical for setting the tone early in the season. A win over the Wolverines, who went 8-5 in 2024 and feature an extremely young quarterback in Bryce Underwood, would provide a massive confidence boost for OU’s revamped offense led by John Mateer and new coordinator Ben Arbuckle. It’s a high-profile game that could flip the narrative about OU’s competitiveness early in the season after a disappointing 6-7 2024 debut in the SEC. In an interesting twist, I read that simulations from EA College Football 26 show OU making the CFP in every instance they beat Michigan, which may or may not be of interest to you, but I thought it was pretty wild. Losing this game could pave the path toward a disappointing 7-5 or 8-4 season, while a victory sets up a potential 5-0 start heading into the Red River Rivalry.
vs. Texas (October 11, 2025, Dallas, TX)
The Red River Rivalry is a must-win for OU. Period. Not only for its historical significance, but also for recruiting and national perception. Texas, which is favored to contend for the SEC title, has dominated OU in two of Brent Venables’ first three seasons, including a 34-3 rout in 2024. A victory against Arch Manning and the Longhorns would be a statement win, proving OU can hang with the perceived SEC’s elite. This game’s outcome often sways recruiting battles and fan confidence, and a loss could derail momentum heading into a brutal stretch of SEC games. OU’s ability to go at least 1-1 in the Texas-South Carolina two-game stretch is critical for playoff aspirations, in my opinion.
vs. LSU (November 29, 2025, Norman, OK)
The regular-season finale against LSU has the potential to be a make-or-break game for OU’s playoff hopes or, conversely, Brent Venables’ job security. LSU, led by Heisman contender Garrett Nussmeier and a deep receiving corps, is expected to be a top SEC contender. A win in Norman could secure a playoff berth, especially if OU is hovering around 8-3 or 9-2. Last season, OU lost 37-17 to LSU, and a home victory would signal significant progress in Year 2 of SEC play. This game’s implications for bowl eligibility, fan morale, and program trajectory could make it a monumental matchup.
These games, Michigan for early momentum, Texas for rivalry and perception, and LSU for season-defining stake, are critical to avoiding a repeat of 2024’s struggles and positioning OU for a potential 10-2-ish type season and a College Football Playoff berth.
Three Games OU Cannot Afford to Lose
– Charlie S – Posted on: July 29, 2025
The OU football team faces a critical 2025 season, as they aim to rebound from a disappointing 6-7 record in 2024, their first year in the SEC. Losing to Auburn, Ole Miss, and Missouri, all home games, could significantly jeopardize OU’s season goals, coaching stability, and program reputation. Below are the key reasons why OU cannot afford to lose these games.
Losing these games would severely limit OU’s margin for error, as dropping all three could lead to a sub-.500 SEC record (2-6 or worse, given their 2-6 SEC record in 2024). A poor conference record risks missing bowl eligibility and falling short of playoff contention, something that should be a baseline expectation for OU in the 12-team playoff era.
Auburn:
Despite Auburn’s recent struggles (four straight losing seasons), they have bolstered their roster with OU transfer quarterback Jackson Arnold and top portal additions like Eric Singleton Jr. and Xavier Chaplin. A loss to Auburn, especially with Arnold facing his former team, would be a psychological and devastating blow, signaling OU’s inability to handle a middle-of-the-road SEC opponent at home.
Ole Miss:
Ole Miss, coming off a 9-3 season while having lost multi-year starting quarterback Jaxson Dart and a bunch of other key players. The Rebels are expected to start redshirt sophomore Austin Simmons, who lacks starting experience. A home loss to a transitioning Ole Miss would undermine OU’s ability to capitalize on opponents’ weaknesses, especially after a 26-14 loss to them in 2024.
Missouri:
Missouri’s offense will feature a host of new players after losing quarterback Brady Cook, and OU’s veteran defense is expected to handle them effectively. Losing to Missouri at home, after a 30-23 soul-crushing defeat in 2024, would fuel fan frustration and highlight OU’s inability to reverse course and get things on track while heading in the right direction. At least there is a zero percent chance of seeing an 8-play, 57-second, 75-yard drive from Drew Pyne again…right?
OU cannot afford to lose to Auburn, Ole Miss, and Missouri (especially at home) due to the rest of their brutal schedule, the pressure on Brent Venables, the need to rebuild offensive confidence, fan expectations, and the implications for SEC standings and playoff hopes.
NFL Scouts Like Auburn
– Super K – Posted on: July 29, 2025
As I mentioned last week, I got my hands on the insider NFL scouting reports that review seniors and upcoming juniors (guys the NFL scouts believe are 1st round locks).
Charlie mentioned that the Sooners have to beat Auburn and I’ll tell you, based on the report, it’s going to be tougher than one might have thought.
Again, keep in mind that the reports only including seniors (and rising juniors) but they have some high rated talent – at least in the eyes of the NFL scouts.
According to one of the two insider scouting reports, they have their OT, Xavier Chaplin as a first rounder. They have their center, Connor Lew as a 1st through 3rd round pick.
And the scouting reports show that they have at least three other seniors who have a 4th – 7th round grade.
Bottom line, the NFL scouts believe Auburn is absolutely stacked on the offensive line.
So, JA is going to be in a much different situation behind that line than he was last season.
Arnold is also going to have some targets. The scouts have WR Eric Singleton projected as a 2nd through 4th rounder. And they have a potential late round/FA TE. Obviously they have some younger guys but again these scouting reports focus on seniors.
The NFL likes some of their guys on the defensive front. They’ve got an interior DT projected to go as a late draft pick. And they’ve got a DE (Faulk) that the scouts have projected to go first round. They have another DE (Crawford) who the scouts currently have in the middle of the 4th to the middle of the 6th.
And, they have a linebacker (Wheatland) projected somewhere between the 4th and 6th rounds.
I’ll go through some other schools later but I can tell you that just looking over these, the SEC doesn’t slow down. They just reload. It certainly isn’t like the old Big 12. Keeping in mind, again, that these list evaluate, primarily, seniors, it is really amazing how much talent OU has but also how much they are going to face every week.
Fast Five | Key (Somewhat Under the Radar) Players Ahead of Fall Camp
– Charlie S – Posted on: July 29, 2025
For the Oklahoma Sooners to succeed in the 2025 football season, key players need to have standout performances due to their critical roles on the team, the expectations tied to their talent, and the team’s overall goals of rebounding from a disappointing 2024 season.
Let’s take a fast five look at why these specific five players’ success is vital.
Logan Howland (Offensive Line, Left Tackle)
Howland, a sophomore offensive lineman, emerged as a key starter at left tackle in 2024, playing in all 13 games and starting the final six at the position. His presence (and gained experience) significantly improved the Sooners’ offensive line, which struggled with injuries and inconsistency last season. A strong offensive line is crucial for protecting quarterback John Mateer and enabling a revitalized (hopefullY) passing and running game under new offensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle.
Howland faces competition from highly touted freshman Michael Fasusi and senior Jacob Sexton. A breakout year from Howland would solidify his role as a cornerstone of the offensive line, providing stability and experience to a unit that needs to perform this season. His ability to hold off challengers and perform consistently will be critical for an offense looking to improve from its 2024 ranking of 121st in FBS passing offense (167.1 yards per game). A strong left tackle protects Mateer’s blindside and supports a balanced offensive attack, which is essential for OU’s goals.
Marvin Jones Jr. (Defensive End)
Jones Jr., a former five-star recruit and transfer from Florida State and Georgia, is a highly athletic edge rusher with one year of eligibility remaining. In 2024, he recorded 25 tackles, six tackles for loss, and four sacks in nine starts, showcasing his potential as a disruptive force. At Oklahoma, he’s expected to potentially start opposite R Mason Thomas at defensive end, bolstering a defensive line that needs to generate pressure to support Brent Venables’ aggressive defensive scheme.
The Sooners’ defense, a strength under Venables, relies on a dominant front to disrupt opposing offenses. Jones’s ability to leverage his athleticism and experience could elevate OU’s pass rush, which is critical in the pass-heavy SEC. A big year from Jones would not only improve the defense but also draw attention from NFL scouts, potentially making him a draft pick. His performance (along with others in the EDGE room) is pivotal for OU to compete against top-tier offenses and regain a winning record after two 6-7 seasons in Venables’ first three years.
Isaiah Sategna (Wide Receiver/Return Specialist)
Isaiah Sategna, a redshirt sophomore transfer from Arkansas, brings speed and versatility to OU’s wide receiver room, which was decimated by injuries and transfers in 2024. In his 2024 season at Arkansas, Sategna caught 37 passes for 491 yards and one touchdown, emerging as a reliable target. His elite speed and experience as a return specialist make him a dual-threat weapon. At OU, he’s expected to compete for a starting role in a rebuilt receiver corps.
OU’s passing offense was among the worst in FBS in 2024, and Sategna’s ability to stretch the field aligns perfectly with John Mateer’s deep-ball tendencies. Offensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle has praised Sategna’s mental toughness and reliability, noting his ability to make big plays quietly. A breakout season would provide a much-needed spark to the offense and enhance the return game, where his punt return ability could flip field position. Sategna’s integration into OU’s system and his chemistry with Mateer will be crucial for offensive improvement and team momentum.
Kendal Daniels (Linebacker)
Daniels, a transfer from Oklahoma State, is a versatile defender who can play linebacker or the hybrid “cheetah” position in OU’s defense. A former Freshman All-American and Big 12 Defensive Freshman of the Year, Daniels recorded 240 tackles, 7.5 sacks, 13 pass deflections, five interceptions, and two fumble recoveries over three seasons with the Cowboys. His size, speed, and positional flexibility make him a pretty dynamic chess piece for Brent Venables and linebacker coach Nate Dreiling.
Daniels’ versatility allows OU to adapt to various offensive schemes in the SEC, where flexibility in the linebacker and secondary units is critical. His spring practice buzz highlights his speed and impact, and a big year could solidify him as a leader in a linebacker room that includes returning starter Kip Lewis. With future NFL player Danny Stutman’s departure, Daniels’ ability to execute complex schemes under new leadership, along with his versatility, will be vital for maintaining OU’s defensive strength. A standout season could also position him as an NFL prospect, boosting the team’s profile. Do not be shocked to see him playing a lot of MIKE this season.
David Stone (Defensive Tackle)
Stone, a sophomore defensive tackle and former five-star recruit, was a highly anticipated addition to OU’s 2024 class. As a freshman, he played in 12 games, recording seven tackles and 1.5 tackles for loss, showing flashes of his potential as a disruptive interior lineman. His size (6’4, 300) and athleticism make him a future cornerstone for OU’s defensive line, which needs to replace departing players and have new impact players emerge.
Why a Big Year Matters: The Sooners’ defensive success hinges on a strong front, particularly in the SEC, where they face physical, run-heavy offenses. Stone’s development into a dominant force would clog running lanes and pressure quarterbacks, easing the burden on linebackers and the secondary. As a former top recruit, expectations are high for Stone to emerge as a starter and leader in 2025. A breakout year would validate OU’s developmental prowess and help the defense maintain its reputation as a team strength.
Captain Obvious Bonus Player:
Gentry Williams (Cornerback)
A big year from Gentry Williams is critical for OU to improve its pass defense, stabilize the secondary, and compete in the SEC. His elite athleticism, health recovery, and leadership can elevate the defense, potentially leading to key wins and a playoff push. A standout season also positions him as an NFL prospect, making 2025 a defining year for both Williams and OU.
OU’s pass defense struggled in 2024, ranking 69th in pass efficiency defense (132.11) and allowing 42 pass plays of 20+ yards (fourth-most in SEC). Williams, when healthy, showed lockdown ability in 2023. His speed and instincts can limit big plays and boost OU’s interception total (down to just 9 in 2024). If it’s not Gentry standing tall at corner, expect the next most important CB to be Kendel Dolby (counting on a steady Eli Bowen as well).
One of OU’s Toughest Opponents According to NFL Scouts
– Super K – Posted on: July 30, 2025
Not surprisingly, it’s LSU. As I’ve noted in previous posts, there are two main insider NFL scout evaluations that go around.
On one of those, tries to estimate how many draft picks a team has. That doesn’t mean those are necessarily all the draft picks the team will have.
The highest estimate right now goes to LSU with at least 11 draft picks.
I will say that the evaluation does have Bauer Sharp as one of their tail end draft picks. In fact both insider evaluations have him going somewhere in the late rounds. One has him estimated in the 7th round and the other has him going somewhere between late 4th to late 6th.
Obviously, Garrett Nussmeier has an extremely high score.
But overall one of two scouting reports has LSU with the most potential draft picks in the country.
Injury Updates Ahead of Fall Camp
– Charlie S – Posted on: July 30, 2025
***At the conclusion of his fall camp presser, Brent Venables mentioned that starting cornerback Eli Bowen will miss the start of Sooners’ fall camp due to an ankle injury sustained during spring practices. He did not mention any time frame, but our sources continue to believe Bowen will be available for the season.
***Venables also confirmed our sourced notes from early in the offseason when he mentioned Kendel Dolby will take cornerback reps in fall camp (I would expect him to be running with the ones in Eli’s absence).
***Venables provided brief updates on several other injured Sooners:
***He noted that wide receiver Javonnie Gibson is on track to return from a spring leg injury.
***He also noted that offensive linemen Heath Ozaeta and Logan Howland are fully recovered from offseason surgeries and cleared for fall camp.
***He did not mention Jayden Jackson, who also had offseason surgery, but our sources have previously confirmed he is back and ready to go.
Insider Scouts | OU vs Texas
– Super K – Posted on: July 31, 2025
Continuing with the series I’ve been writing based on the two main NFL insider scouting reports I got my hands on, I want to give you a sense of OU’s roster vs Texas roster.
Again, I continue to remind you that these insider scouting lists tend to leave off underclassmen and the focus really is on seniors.
Yesterday, I mentioned that scouts have a very favorable few of LSU with at least 11 players already seen as potential NFL draft picks.
Well, on one of the reports, the Sooners have one of the best rosters in the country with already potentially eight draft picks. As I’ve said before, I believe that number will end up being the floor.
However, the scouting reports so far on Texas are not nearly as favorable. One of the reports has Texas with half as many potential NFL guys at the senior levels. The second report is about the same.
Obviously Texas has a lot of younger talent so it doesn’t tell the whole story.
But at the upper class level, the NFL scouts prefer OU’s roster over Texas.
Again, I’ve been saying for a while (prior to receiving these insider reports) that on paper, OU is a very talented team.
Fast Five | Talking Potential Breakout Performances
– Charlie S – Posted on: July 31, 2025
Sooners fall camp is underway!
Before things really get cooking, lets take a look at 5 potential players who could have breakout seasons for the Sooners!
Some of the names you would expect to be on the list, while some may surprise you!
1. PJ Adebawore (Defensive End, Junior)
Why He Could Have a Breakout Year:
Adebawore, a former five-star recruit, has elite pass-rushing tools but has been hampered by injuries. In 2023, he played all 13 games (177 snaps), recording 6 tackles, 3.0 tackles for loss (TFL), and 1.5 sacks. In 2024, injuries limited him to 10 games (86 snaps, e.g., 10 vs. Ole Miss), with 4 tackles and 1.5 TFL. Now at 260 pounds, he’s added size for SEC physicality, and teammates praise his “freakish” athleticism and pass-rush moves. With Ethan Downs, Trace Ford, and Caiden Woullard gone, Adebawore is projected to fight for the start opposite R Mason Thomas. Under coaches Brent Venables and Miguel Chavis, a healthy offseason could unlock his potential.
Key Opportunity: OU needs edge production after losing a handful of guys on the edge. Adebawore could start and double his career TFL if he avoids injuries on his way to becoming a disruptive force against SEC offenses.
2. Sammy Omosigho (Linebacker, Junior)
Why He Could Have a Breakout Year:
Omosigho, a four-star 2023 recruit, emerged in 2024, playing all 13 games with three starts at the “cheetah” position, ranking fifth on the team with 39 tackles, 5.0 TFL, 1 forced fumble, 1 pass breakup, and 2 QB hurries. His 2023 season (10 games, 7 tackles) was mostly special teams, but his 2024 stats show growth. With Danny Stutsman, Dasan McCullough, and Lewis Carter gone, Omosigho may shift to inside linebacker in a supporting or even starting role.. His physical attributes and speed fit Brent Venables’ aggressive scheme.
Key Opportunity: Linebacker depth issues give Omosigho a shot to start. He could be a guy that leads in TFL if he transitions successfully, and helps fill the void left by Danny Stutsmans departure..
3. Courtland Guillory (Cornerback, Freshman)
Why He Could Have a Breakout year:
Guillory, a four-star 2025 signee, brings speed and ball skills to OU’s secondary. At 6’0”, 170 pounds, the Klein Oak star chose OU over Texas and Tennessee. With Kani Walker and Woodi Washington gone, Eli Bowen and Gentry Williams are projected starters, but depth is largely unproven aside from the shift of Kendel Dolby to the outside corner room, with Jacobe Johnson, Devon Jordan, and freshmen like Guillory, Maliek Hawkins, and Trystan Haynes competing. Guillory’s early enrollment and high school pedigree give him a chance to play early, similar to Bowen’s freshman impact. OU’s scheme under Venables favors athletic corners, and Guillory could contribute in rotation and on special teams.
Key Opportunity: The secondary’s turnover offers Guillory 100-200 snaps. He could record 10-20 tackles and a handful of pass breakups as a freshman, especially if injuries pop up with some of the veterans.
4. Xavier Robinson (Running Back, Sophomore)
Why He Could Have a Breakout Year:
Robinson was a 2024 bright spot, rushing for 233 yards and 4 touchdowns on 49 carries (4.8 yards per carry) and adding 13 receptions for 119 yards despite being a guy who was a planned redshirt. His late-season emergence showed an opportunity for a bigger role going forward. With Jaydn Ott, Jovantae Barnes, and Taylor Tatum, the backfield is crowded, but Robinson’s efficiency stands out. An improved offensive line and Ben Arbuckle’s scheme should boost the run game. His explosiveness and tough running style will likely earn him ample opportunity.
Key Opportunity: OU’s 2024 run game struggled, but better blocking could elevate Robinson. He might see 100-150 carries, which could result in 500-700 yards and 5-7 touchdowns in a crowded and shared backfield.
5. Jaydan Hardy (Safety, Sophomore)
Why He Could Have a Breakout Year:
Hardy has consistently been singled out by sources and staff as a high-upside sophomore. Listed as a backup safety heading into camp, Hardy’s early career and practice reports suggest readiness for Venables’ physical safety role. He is the guy who has a knack (and habit) of being in the right place at the right time. With Billy Bowman gone, Peyton Bowen and Robert Spears-Jennings lead the way, but Hardy could compete for rotational snaps and should one of the veterans get banged up, he likely would be the first off the bench to fill the void.
Key Opportunity: Safety depth allows Hardy to earn 100-200 snaps, projecting to 10-15 tackles and multiple interception opportunities.
Sourced Notes | Fall Practice One
– Charlie S – Posted on: July 31, 2025
Not going to get deep into the weeds here, but a couple things I wanted to pass along from fall camp, day one.
***First…by the sounds of the way things went today, you can start making reservations for Miami. Number 8 is on the way!! Just kidding, but that’s the level of seriousness about sourced notes after day one.
***The ONE thing I do think is important that came out of today is the list of guys who were out or limited.
DL Markus Strong (source says hammy)
DL Gracen Halton (source says hammy)
WR Javonnie Gibson
WR Jayden Gibson (who was present)
WR KJ Daniels
RB Taylor Tatum
OL Darius Afalava
DB Kendel Dolby
CB Eli Bowen
***As many of you saw from the OU Twitter account, Kip Lewis had an INT. Was told Courtland Guillory got his hands on a couple balls.
***Sounds like the starting safeties were RSJ and Peyton Bowen and source said Peyton is moving very well and fully healthy.
***Was told the OL started much as it ended in the spring (as you would expect before the battles take place) with Sexton-EPL-Everett-Nwaiwu- Simmons from left to right.
***DL ran out RMT-Williams-Jackson-Wein with PJ and MJJ taking turns mixing in with the ones at times.
***Only superlative I’m going to bother passing along at this time…”Ott is the real thing. Different.”
