Weekend Open Post | November 14th – 16th
Posted on: November 14, 2025
Sunday Brunch | Eat, Sleep, Repeat
– Charlie S – Posted on: November 9, 2025
It is officially Bama week. The stress-free bye week for OU football is in the rearview, so sit up straight, strap in, and let’s get focused. We’ve got work to do!
Oklahoma heads into next week’s showdown in Tuscaloosa with a chance to make yet another national statement. Taking down Alabama on the road is one of the toughest challenges in college football, but as we have maintained since the end of last season, this Sooners team has the pieces to compete. To pull off the upset, Oklahoma will need to be sharp, physical, and disciplined from start to finish. Here are three things they must do to get the win.
The quest starts with protecting the Football and winning the Turnover Battle. Turnovers are the great equalizer, and they’ll be especially crucial in a hostile Bryant–Denny Stadium. Alabama’s defense thrives on creating chaos…stripping the ball, jumping routes, and capitalizing on mistakes. For Oklahoma, that means ball security must be the top priority. Offensively, John Mateer has to make quick, smart decisions and avoid giving the Tide short fields. If OU wins the turnover battle, they’ll keep momentum on their side and take the home crowd out of the game early.
OU must establish the run and keep Alabama honest. The Sooners’ offensive balance has been one of their biggest strengths of late, and it has to show up again in Tuscaloosa. Establishing the run early will not only help to control the clock but also open up play-action opportunities that can stretch Alabama’s defense. The Crimson Tide front seven is big and physical, but they’ve shown vulnerability when opponents mix tempo and formation variety. Oklahoma’s running backs must hit holes decisively (fewer of the slow-developing plays and more good old-fashioned runs right at them), and the offensive line needs to play its most complete game of the season.
Defensively, OU must pressure the quarterback and disrupt Alabama’s rhythm. This game will test every level of Oklahoma’s unit. The Sooners’ defensive front, led by the best pass rush Alabama will see this season, has to make Ty Simpson uncomfortable from the first snap. Brent Venables’ scheme is built on disruption, and that means bringing pressure from different looks while staying disciplined in coverage. The goal is to force hurried throws, create third-and-long situations, and limit Alabama’s explosive plays downfield.
The bottom line: winning in Tuscaloosa takes more than talent. It takes toughness, focus, and execution. If Oklahoma protects the ball, commits to the ground game, and unleashes its defense to pressure Alabama, the Sooners will have every opportunity to walk out of Bryant–Denny with one of the biggest wins of the season.
Last year, against Alabama at home in Norman, the Sooners played the exact game they needed to play in a dominating victory. The key here for the Sooners will be to eat, sleep, and repeat what they did last season.
Can they replicate that execution and efficiency that they displayed last year on the road down in Tuscaloosa this year? We will see.
Update | Sooners Offer ’26 OL Noah Abebe
– Charlie S – Posted on: November 10, 2025
***Late last week the Sooners extended another ’26 offensive line offer. This one went out to Noah Abebe (6’3 275) out of Friendswood, TX.
***Abebe is currently committed to Tulane.
***I caught up with Noah and he was excited by the offer from Bill Bedenbaugh. He told me he and his family were sitting down on Sunday evening (last night) to discuss the plan going forward in regard to setting up a visit to Norman.
***Abebe mentioned that currently, OU and Houston are the programs that are pushing hardest for him outside of Tulane.
***He mentioned that the uncertainty with Tulane head coach Jon Sumrall is playing a role in his process and Oklahoma and the track record and stability of Bill Bedenbaugh is something that is very attractive to him.
***The Sooners are recruiting Abebe as a center and guard, and from the sound of it, Abebe is on board with that plan.
***Expect an official to be set up for one of the Sooners final two home games this season.
Upcoming Matchup | First Thoughts
– Super K – Posted on: November 11, 2025
We’ve been saying it since before the season – the Sooners can win and lose every game they play and they’re going to have to win a lot of close games.
This upcoming game is no different.
My guess is 28 points will get it done.
The statistical profile of Alabama has continued to change.
They started out very shaky on both sides of the ball. Then, as Ty Simpson started to figure things out, the offense took a big step forward but the defense lagged behind a bit.
In recent weeks, the offense has been a little inconsistent but the defense has been playing much better. Bama is now in the top 20 in both scoring and total defense.
Oklahoma has morphed a bit, as well. The defense has remained consistent. But the offensive passing game feels a little more suspect than it looked earlier in the season but the run game has started to emerge.
So here’s a simple way of looking at it for me…
***Run game, advantage OU
***Pass game, advantage Bama
***Total offense, I advantage Bama. I don’t think they’re as dangerous for OU has Tennessee could have been. Though I think Bama is less mistake prone.
***Defensively, OU has the advantage. And, as always, the opposing team’s success is going to depend on their ability to give their QB a little time and stay with the run game against OU even if it isn’t working. Anyone who goes away from the run game against BV, pays dearly.
As I said, I don’t think it’s going to take more than maybe 28 points to win this game for either team. I spoke with a friend who is tied in over at Bama and he seems to feel the same.
Sourced | Bowl Season Arriving Early?
– Charlie S – Posted on: November 11, 2025
Okay, so this was originally intended to be an offseason/postseason note, but it got pushed forward due to the rapidly changing landscape of college football.
***Since NIL became a part of the sport, it has become commonplace for players to skip bowl games in order to get into the portal to find their next best paycheck. Bowl games have suffered, obviously, as the level of competition gets watered down with the absence of important players and depth pieces on teams.
***Well, according to sources in the agent world, the next step in that progression appears to be arriving in the near future as there are agents out there who are actively encouraging players to sit out the last few games of the regular season, particularly at programs where there is nothing of consequence to play for…meaning, teams that are out of conference races and playoff contention.
***Source tells me agents are using “Don’t risk hurting yourself for nothin if ya ain’t getting what ya deserve’ as some of the rationale for advising their players to pack it up for the season. Not necessarily for them to announce they are entering the portal, but to protect themselves physically in order to help secure next year’s bag either from their current team or another team. Sounds like source believes we may begin to see a rash of ‘nagging injuries’ across the college landscape.
***Source thinks that there is a danger of this practice gathering traction and even spreading to teams on the fringe of relevancy (outside chances at conference championship games and whatnot) as the schools simply have no control in the matter with the way things are currently structured. There is zero chance that they will police themselves regarding the open market at this time (someone will always pay up).
***It will be interesting to follow as the weeks wind down, but on the other hand, you would think that players who take this route would be hurting themselves (on the market) more than helping themselves, at least those who do not shut things down without a deal already in place.
***I know it’s not a topic that impacts the games on the field for OU at this time, but it is something I felt I should get out before the last couple weeks of the season are upon us and we start potentially seeing this play out across the country.
***Source does not believe it will be all that widespread this year, but they do believe the wheels are turning, and we may be in the process of seeing the bowl season mentality creep into the tail end of the regular season over the next couple of years.
***Just something for us to keep an eye on around the country.
Know Your Opponent | Alabama – 2025
– Charlie S – Posted on: November 12, 2025
Head Coach: Kalen DeBoer – 2nd year
Offensive Coordinator: Ryan Grubb – 1st year
Defensive Coordinator: Kane Wommack – 2nd year
Through nine games of the 2025 season, Alabama football has reasserted itself as a national contender under second-year head coach Kalen DeBoer. The Crimson Tide is 8–1 overall, 6–0 in SEC play, and ranked No. 4 in the College Football Playoff standings. First-year offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb has brought more balance and efficiency to the offense, while the defense, led by Kane Wommack, continues to work on improving its consistency against the run. After an early loss to Florida State, Alabama has steadied with strong conference wins, showing growth but still chasing the disciplined, physical “Bama standard.” With key SEC matchups still ahead, the Tide remain firmly in the playoff race.
On Offense…
Alabama’s offensive scheme under coordinator Ryan Grubb is a balanced, up-tempo system that mixes spread concepts with pro-style structure. It emphasizes quick reads for the quarterback, motion to create mismatches, and a strong blend of the run and short passing game to control tempo. The Tide uses multiple formations, often with tight ends and motion, to disguise plays and keep defenses off balance, aiming for efficiency, rhythm, and explosive plays downfield.
Starters and impact players…
#15 QB Ty Simpson: Steady dual-threat leader with 2,461 pass yards, 21 TDs, and just 1 INT (66.9% comp.); adds 87 rush yards and 2 TDs, anchoring the Tide’s offense.
#26 RB Jam Miller: The lead running back who brings a three‐down skill set and is considered the top option in the backfield.
#1 WR Germie Bernard: Dynamic slot weapon leading receivers with 605 yards and 6 TDs on 41 catches. Versatile gadget player with 97 rush yards, key in explosive plays.
#13 WR Ryan Williams: Speedy deep threat with 528 yards and 4 TDs on 36 receptions; hauled in a 13-yard TD vs. LSU, thriving in vertical scheme with 14.7 YPC.
#14 WR Isaiah Horton: Big-bodied outside complement with 298 yards and 5 TDs on 24 catches; transfer addition bolstering red-zone presence at 12.4 YPC.
#81 TE Josh Cuevas: Reliable chain-mover with 261 yards and 3 TDs on 24 receptions; consistent blocker in run-heavy sets.
#74 LT Kadyn Proctor: Massive road-grader anchoring left side; pivotal in protecting Simpson, enabling balanced attack.
#78 LG Kam Dewberry: Transfer mauler with strong pull-block mobility; dinged up late vs. LSU but key to gap/power runs, allowing some pressures.
#72 C Parker Brailsford: Veteran pivot calling protections; snaps cleanly. One of the best centers in CFB
#77 RG Jaeden Roberts: Returning anchor with elite power; dominant in SEC matchups, paving lanes despite team’s 3.5 YPC rush average.
#71 RT Wilkin Formby: Versatile edge protector stepping up at tackle; crucial for play-action success.
***Balanced Play Calling – Under offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb, Alabama has developed a well-rounded attack that mixes the run and pass effectively. The Tide uses motion and multiple formations to keep defenses guessing and avoid predictability.
***Quarterback Efficiency – Ty Simpson has been accurate and careful with the football, throwing only one interception while maintaining a strong completion percentage. His decision-making has improved as the season has progressed.
***Offensive Line Protection – Behind a veteran front anchored by Kadyn Proctor and Parker Brailsford, Alabama’s pass protection has been steady, giving Simpson time to operate and allowing the offense to sustain drives.
***Consistency in the Run Game – While Jam Miller and the backs have shown flashes, Alabama hasn’t always controlled games on the ground, particularly against physical SEC defenses.
***Red Zone Efficiency – Too many drives have stalled inside the 20-yard line, leading to field goals instead of touchdowns, a key area to clean up before the postseason.
***Explosive Plays Downfield – The passing game has been efficient but not as explosive as past Alabama offenses. Developing more deep-threat production from wide receivers would open up the entire offense.
On defense…
Alabama’s defensive scheme under coordinator Kane Wommack is an aggressive, multiple-front system built around a 4-2-5 base that emphasizes speed, discipline, and versatility. It mixes traditional Nick Saban-style principles, sound gap control and disguised coverages, with Wommack’s attacking approach that uses varied blitz looks and hybrid defenders. The Tide rely heavily on press-man coverage, simulated pressures, and quick adjustments to create confusion for opposing quarterbacks while maintaining strong run fits and pursuit angles.
Starters and impact players…
#96 DT Tim Keenan III: Veteran anchor run-stuffer leading a D-line that’s top-15 in rushing yards allowed
#44 DT London Simmons: Disruptive interior force recovered a strip sack vs. LSU
#92 DE Yhonzae Pierre: Speed-rush specialist who strip-sacked LSU’s Van Buren, anchoring edge pressure in top-20 scoring D
#23 DL James Smith: A junior defensive lineman starting inside; looked to develop into more play-making and penetration.
#22 DL LT Overton: A senior edge/defensive end who brings experience and physicality to the front, key in run-defense and setting the edge. 4 sacks on the year.
#30 LB Deontae Lawson: Emerging playmaker who is reliable in coverage and blitzes
#10 LB Justin Jefferson: A senior linebacker in the hybrid role; contributes in coverage and run support.
#2 CB Domani Jackson: Ball-hawking transfer who can be lockdown in man/zone
#5 DB Dijon Lee Jr.: A true freshman cornerback with high recruiting acclaim; expected to contribute and develop. Has come in for Jackson lately.
#7 CB King Mack: Physical freshman who is versatile slot/outside, key in quarters coverage for top-25 pass efficiency defense.
#26 CB Zabien Brown: Speedy boundary corner who is a breakout sophomore shutting down deep threats.
#14 S Keon Sabb: Sure-handed safety that is rangy in pattern-matching, a leader in the secondary
#29 S Bray Hubbard: Hard-hitting backup-turned-starter who is strong vs. run/pass, essential in simulated pressures
***Front Seven Aggression – The defensive line and linebackers excel at controlling gaps, setting the edge, and generating pressure on opposing quarterbacks.
***Versatile Secondary – The defensive backs are athletic and flexible, able to play press coverage, zone, or hybrid roles, which allows Alabama to disguise coverages and respond to multiple offensive schemes.
***Tackling and Pursuit – Alabama emphasizes disciplined tackling and gang‑tackling principles, which limits big plays and keeps opposing offenses in check, particularly on runs outside the tackles.
***Run Defense Consistency – Despite strong individual talent, the Tide occasionally allows opponents to gain chunks of yardage on the ground, highlighting a need for sharper gap discipline and alignment.
***Third-Down Stops – Conversion rates on third downs have sometimes been too high for opposing offenses, indicating that the defense needs to tighten situational execution.
***Creating Turnovers – Alabama’s defense generates pressure but has struggled to consistently force interceptions or fumbles, limiting their ability to shift momentum in critical moments.
Bottom line…
***OU needs to win up front in both phases. On offense, establish the run and sustain drives to keep the Tide’s offense off the field. On defense, disrupt Alabama’s line of scrimmage so they don’t dictate tempo or dominate the trenches.
***The Sooners need to protect the football and force turnovers. Alabama has minimized mistakes all season, so Oklahoma must take care of the ball on offense and try to force a turnover or two to shift momentum.
***OU needs to try to exploit Alabama’s defensive weaknesses with tempo and chunk plays. Use motion, misdirection, and big‑play opportunities to pull the Tide out of their preferred rhythm. Taking what they give you can create a chance for momentum shifts.
***Oklahoma needs to control field position and special teams execution. Good punt, kick‑return, and coverage play matter enormously when facing a disciplined foe. Pin Alabama deep, avoid giving them short fields, and capitalize on any special teams edge.
***OU needs to stay physically tough and execute for 60 minutes. Alabama expects pressure, discipline, and error‑free football from its team. Oklahoma must match the physicality, avoid lapses or mental mistakes, and maintain consistent effort through every quarter.
Sourced | NIL Doing Just Fine at OU
– Charlie S – Posted on: November 12, 2025
***Just wanted to pass along further evidence that, despite the narrative, the Sooners are not ‘poor’ and they are in fact more than fine when it comes to NIL for high school recruits.
***I was recently in touch with a source very close to a priority defensive player in the ’27 class who has direct knowledge of the NIL contract from OU on the table for said player. Let’s just say the offer was quite impressive.
***When source was asked about where the offer ranked, source said it is in the ballpark of what other top programs are offering.
***Important to note that the player is not a trench player, and we already know OU does well there with NIL.
Sourced | NIL Note
– Super K – Posted on: November 13, 2025
As you know, the college football world has moved towards the revenue sharing model. NIL deals will now be run through a clearinghouse to ensure that deals are bona fide NIL deals and not inducements to play at a particular school.
However, I spoke with a source recently who told me that the clearinghouse is giving a lot more latitude to high profile positional targets like quarterbacks.
Why does that matter?
Because paying 4 million dollars for your quarterback out of your revenue sharing budget, would absolutely be cost prohibitive. It would be very difficult to build a good roster if a quarter of your budget is going to one position.
However, if you can take care of that via relaxed NIL scrutiny, then you gain an advantage.
The point, then, is that program are still going to need to ensure that they have solid NIL funds and plans in order to take as much off of their revenue sharing as possible.
Update | Recruiting Notes and Refresher | Update: Bathurst – 11:55
– Charlie S – Posted on: November 13, 2025
Signing day for the 2026 class is about three weeks away and the Sooners are still doing some work on the trail.
I just wanted to put all the remaining pieces (that we are aware of) in one place for you all.
I also added a couple updates on the Sooners red hot 2027 class below the 2026 notes.
2026
***RB Messiah Mickens – As we have noted, he is very high on OU and the Sooners are in a good spot. Ole Miss is still in the picture and I believe if Penn State makes a hire prior to signing day, they will get a long hard look. I know there are some predictions in for him, but I still feel like there is a ways to go here for OU.
***OL Jonas Muya 6’7 280, Fort Wayne, Indiana – Will officially visit Norman right before singing day. I like OU should they push. West Virginia is involved.
***OL Noah Abebe 6’3 275, Friendswood, Texas – Tulane Commit – Will also officially visit OU before signing day. Previously noted the Tulane coaching situation is playing a role here along with the push from the Sooners. Houston also involved here.
***DL Malique Franklin 6’5 250, Daphne, Alabama – OU is hoping to get him on campus for the LSU game right before signing day. They view him as an athletic DL, much like Nigel Smith as I previously noted.
***WR Jayden Petit 6’4 195, Naples, Florida – Just a matter of will he flip from Wisconsin or not at this point. Sooners made a big push during the Ole Miss week and Petit appeared to be close to flipping, but to this point, it has not materialized.
Potential New Offer – LB Dane Bathurst 6’3 220, Carmel, Indiana – Duke Commit – Sooners and LB Coach Nate Dreiling doing some work here in the dark.
2027
*** CB Mikyal Davis 5’11 175, Goodyear, Arizona – Made his way to Norman for the Ole Miss weekend and the Sooners put themselves in a good position. You may have seen the predictions from national pundits on social media; they aren’t wrong here.
***LB Taven Epps 6’4 220, Tustin, California – Another guy who is picking up a lot of predictions publicly, and again, those predictions are for good reason. Epps was committed to Texas and has been to Norman multiple times, with the possibility of getting back again this season. OU is in a very good spot.
Update: 11:55 AM
Things with Bathurst are picking up steam as he has now publicly decommitted from Duke. Expect an offer and OV announcement here shortly.
One On Ones | Oklahoma vs Alabama – 2025
– Charlie S – Posted on: November 13, 2025
The Sooners are back on the road this weekend as they head to Tuscaloosa to take on the Crimson Tide of Alabama.
Alabama is 8-1 on the year and they are coming off a 20-9 win over LSU last weekend.
Last year in Norman, the Sooners shellacked the Tide by the score of 24-3
There are a couple of one-on-ones I will be paying close attention to, so let’s talk about them!
One on One Number One
Oklahoma EDGE Danny Okoye vs Alabama Offensive Tackle Kadyn Proctor
Alabama offensive tackle Kadyn Proctor is a massive, athletic blocker with elite size (6’7”, 366 lbs) and surprising mobility for his frame. He excels in the run game, using power and leverage to drive defenders off the ball, and has the physical tools to develop into a top-tier pass protector. However, his technique can be inconsistent, particularly with hand placement and pad level, and he sometimes struggles with hip flexibility against quicker edge rushers. While still refining his footwork and consistency, Proctor’s blend of strength, length, and upside makes him one of college football’s most promising linemen.
With R Mason Thomas, the Sooners most prolific pass rusher questionable, Marvin Jones, PJ Adebawore, and Taylor Wein will likely see increased snaps should he not be able to go…but Danny Okoye may be the guy to keep an eye on, particularly when it comes to rushing the passer. RMT could give Proctor all he could handle if he is able to go, but Okoye represents all that gives Proctor some problems. Okoye is long, strong, quick, and very agile and if he gets the opportunity, he may be a guy who makes a big impact in the game on Saturday.
One on One Number Two
OU Cornerback Eli Bowen vs Alabama wide receiver Ryan Williams
Alabama wide receiver Ryan Williams is an explosive playmaker with elite speed, fluid route-running, and the ability to create separation and big plays against any defense. His body control and hands make him dangerous after the catch, and he showed flashes of star potential as a freshman. However, he’s still developing consistency in areas like blocking and route precision. Despite those minor weaknesses, Williams’ combination of speed, skill, and football IQ makes him one of the most dynamic young receivers in college football.
Last season, Sooners freshman cornerback Eli Bowen did a great job in his duties against the Crimson Tide which included covering Williams more often than not. In last years game, Bowen helped the Sooner defense limit Williams to two catches and 37 yards and if Bowen and the Sooners can take Williams out of the picture for the most part, they can allocate extra defenders and plans to help mitigate the impact that the Tide’s other main receiver, Germie Bernard can have on the game.
One on One Number Three
OU running back Xavier Robinson vs Alabama linebacker Justin Jefferson
In Oklahoma’s 24–3 upset win over Alabama on November 23, 2024, running back Xavier Robinson turned in a breakout performance that showcased his power and poise. The freshman carried the ball 18 times for 107 yards and two touchdowns, including an 18-yard scoring run just before halftime and a one-yard plunge in the third quarter that helped seal the victory. Robinson also added four receptions for 20 yards, proving his versatility against one of the nation’s top defenses. After a slow start to the 2025 season (for one reason or another), Robinson has firmly established himself as running back one in Norman and has been wrecking shop against SEC defenses for the last three weeks, and he is now averaging 6.4 yards per carry on the season (52 carries for 332 yards).
Justin Jefferson is the Crimson Tides’ leading tackler to this point of the season as he has totalled 54 tackles to this point. Here is the thing…X Rob is actually bigger than Jefferson and if the Sooners focus on pounding the rock, Jefferson will be tasked with getting out from under the rubble more often than not. Last year, the Sooners and Robinson won this matchup; they would love to see a repeat performance this season as OU would benefit greatly from controlling the ground game against a defense that does not crack the top 50 in run defense.
