Weekend Open Post | October 16th – 18th
Posted on: October 16, 2026
Red River | Post Game Thoughts
– Super K – Posted on: October 10, 2026
***In my post from this past Thursday, I said the following (HERE)…
You have to go into this game knowing that the only way the Sooners win is if the defense plays well, which means the strategy for the offense in the first half should be at the very least to tenderize the DL (run the ball) even if it seems to yield no results.
Your goal here is to win this game in the second half.
***I continued by saying…
I’m thinking of this as a turtle vs the hair situation. You’re playing to contain them in the first half and soften them up while you let your OL get live in game reps coming off the ball.
Then you make your move in the second half, just as they did to OU last year.
***It was the patience with running the ball that allowed the running game to start paying off just enough in the second half. It allowed the OL to push on the DL enough to make pass pro easier.
Again, the problem this whole season has been too much faith in Mateer and a game plan that makes him central. He did well because he wasn’t made the star. They limited what he did and they kept feeding the backs.
***Finally, I said…
The game plan, to me, remains the same, you’re playing to not beat yourself, to wear them down and to make your move in the second half.
There are obviously a number of ways this could play out but if it’s going to be a Sooner win, I’d surmise the most likely out come is something like that – OU down early but they keep the game within striking distance and make a push in the second half to win a close one.
***It was very simple and it’s why OU could’ve beat UGA and Michigan. The defense is good. Just don’t give the other team free points. And trust that your backs and your OL will figure it out if you keep feeding them.
***Congrats, folks! If the Sooners learn from this – meaning, they understand who they are and who they aren’t, they can continue to win.
Sourced Team Note | Potentially Getting One Back
– Charlie S – Posted on: October 10, 2026
Real quick…
***Source tells me there is a very good chance Sooners offensive tackle Michael Fasusi will practice this week and play in the game against Kentucky if all goes according to plan. Source said Fasusi was looking to practice this week, but he did not get cleared for contact. Something we will keep an eye on.
Sunday Brunch | OU Knocks Off No. 1 Texas. Now What?
– Charlie S – Posted on: October 11, 2026
Well, Sooner Nation, THAT was a lot more fun than the last few weeks.
Oklahoma needed this one in the worst way, and Brent Venables’ squad delivered by taking down No. 1 Texas in the Cotton Bowl. Tate Sandell’s game-winning field goal as time expired made it even sweeter, sending the Sooners to 3-2 and giving this team, this staff and this fan base a much-needed shot in the arm.
Let’s be honest. Had OU lost this game, the questions surrounding the program would have gotten a whole lot louder. Instead, the Sooners have their biggest win of the season, bragging rights over the Longhorns and a chance to get this thing moving in the right direction.
But what does it actually mean going forward?
First, the confidence boost is HUGE. Beating the No. 1 team in the country can change the mood in a locker room. These players now have proof that they can compete with an elite opponent and find a way to win. For a fan base that’s been frustrated with the direction of the offense, this was a reminder that the season isn’t dead yet.
And you know this win helps on the recruiting trail. Beating Texas in the Cotton Bowl gives Venables and his staff something to sell. Recruits want to play in big games, compete for championships and be part of a program that can deliver on the biggest stages. This win helps make that case.
Retention matters, too. Players want to believe they’re building toward something. A win like this can reinforce that belief, although OU still has plenty of work to do to keep its roster together and continue adding talent.
Now, let’s talk about that defense. Good grief. This unit gives Oklahoma a chance against anybody. Peyton Bowen’s interception return for a touchdown was a massive play, and Danny Okoye’s blocked punt, recovered by Dakoda Fields, gave the Sooners another huge special teams moment in a game where the offense struggled to get much going.
And that’s the biggest takeaway for me: OU doesn’t need an elite offense to win games with this defense. It needs competent quarterback play.
The Sooners don’t need John Mateer to play Superman every week. They need him to protect the football, make good decisions and take what’s available. A quarterback who manages the game and lets the defense do its thing is a whole lot more valuable than one who puts his own team in trouble trying to make something happen.
With this defense, Oklahoma can win any game remaining on its schedule if the quarterback play is good enough. That’s not a prediction that OU will win them all, but the opportunity is there.
And that brings us to Ben Arbuckle.
Enjoy the win, but don’t ignore the offensive problems. Oklahoma finished with just 238 yards of total offense, compared with Texas’ 382. The Sooners scored only one offensive touchdown, with the other two coming from the defense and special teams.
That tells you plenty.
Arbuckle has to find a way to make this offense more functional. That starts with leaning into what the personnel does well, finding a more consistent run game and making things easier on Mateer.
The quarterback doesn’t have to win the game on every snap. Sometimes the right call is the simple completion, a run up the middle or throwing the ball away and living for the next play. With this defense, there’s no reason to play reckless football.
That’s part of Arbuckle’s job as an offensive coordinator. He has to help Mateer understand when to attack and when to manage the game. Mateer deserves his share of the criticism, but the coaching staff has to put him in a position to succeed, too.
The good news? OU just proved it can win a massive game without much production from the offense. The bad news? That isn’t a formula you want to rely on every Saturday.
So, where does that leave the Sooners?
At 3-2, with a huge rivalry win, a defense that can keep them in any game and an offense that still has plenty to prove. That’s a much better place to be than 2-3 and staring at another week of questions.
Now the challenge is turning this into something bigger. The defense has established its identity. Special teams came through when it mattered. The offense needs to find its own answers.
Enjoy this one, Sooner Nation. Beating No. 1 Texas never gets old.
But if OU wants this win to mean something beyond bragging rights, Arbuckle and Mateer have to build on it. Give this defense competent quarterback play, stop giving opponents unnecessary opportunities and let the rest take care of itself.
Because with a defense like this, Oklahoma has a chance against anybody.
Now let’s see what the Sooners do with it.
Sunday Afternoon Notes and Clarity
– Charlie S – Posted on: October 11, 2026
Damn fine Sunday afternoon to all!
I sincerely hope you all are enjoying the massive win yesterday against Texas and sitting back and soaking it all up!
A couple of notes about the game yesterday that I think could use some clarification and a new injury to report:
***First, the injury. Running back Tory Blaylock will begin the week in concussion protocol and that immediately makes him ‘Questionable’ at best for the Kentucky game. There is a world where he can clear protocol, but I am not banking on him being available.
***Next…there has been a lot of talk about OU swapping the offensive guards at halftime. That did not happen. Noah Best started in place of EPL at left guard and he played every snap there. Heath Ozaeta started at right guard and Peyton Joseph filled in for 6 snaps. I don’t know if the broadcast said something or people thought they saw some sort of flip, but that was not the case. I will add that neither Ozaeta or Joseph are completely healthy, but they did a great job against the best DL OU will face the rest of the regular season, so props to them. The announcers were horrible in the first half for calling out an OL that was doing a damn fine job when they should have been focusing on Mateer and his ineptness.
***Then I am starting to see rumors of Kevin Wilson somehow calling plays in the second half. We have not heard that at all, and on the surface, it feels like folks searching for answers as to why the OU offense looked at least competent in the second half. The real reason the OU offense looked competent? OU went away from the RPO, limited the called QB runs, handed the ball to the backs, let the OL get in a rhythm, and threw a couple deep balls, which got the Texas safeties to at least respect that aspect even if they didn’t connect (lightened the box for the run game). However, I can assure you, when OU moved the ball onto the Texas side of the field by running and quick passes late in the 3rd quarter, Kevin Wilson is not going to call a trick play that would almost cost the Sooners the game if Texas had not committed a penalty of roughing the passer who was a wide receiver. That was an Arbuckle special, and OU survived it thanks to Texas.
***Enjoy your Sunday, you deserve it, the team deserves it, and allow yourself to soak it all up! Big win!
Position Group Progress Report | Week Five ’26: Texas
– Charlie S – Posted on: October 12, 2026
Checking out how the position groups performed in the Sooners’ thrilling 27-24 win over Texas. OU was an underdog against Texas, and they won the game and obviously covered the 8.5 point spread.
This will be the fifth progress report of the season.
I will include the previous week’s ranking at the top of each position group’s report in all subsequent progress reports!
Let’s see how things shook out against Texas.
QB: Low 3* (Last week: Black hole)
John Mateer came into the game under the heaviest of microscopes, and he delivered a somewhat improved performance, and most importantly, he did not turn the ball over, despite appearing to try to on a couple of occasions. He played the majority of the game at a below-average level based on decision making, missed opportunities, and lack of awareness, but he gets bumped to the 3* based on the last two throws he made in the game when OU needed him the most. To be clear, John Mateer was still not good enough; he wasn’t good enough to win the game yesterday with the offense and without the defense and special teams, but he was better, and that’s a good sign; still a lot of work to do.
RB: Low 4* (Last week: 2*)
Lloyd Avant was the engine that kept the OU offense from completely falling off the cliff and he sparked what was probably the best half of offensive football by the Sooners this season with a big run and some even more impressive runs that he just would refuse to be taken down on. Jonathan Hatton got the start, and he was ok and flashed a few times briefly, but Avant was the dude that would not be denied.
WR: 3* (Last week: 3*)
Isaiah Sategna led the team with 5 catches for 64 yards, and while he did have what looked like a crucial 3rd down drop late in the game, he made up for it on the final drive with two ‘must haves’ on each of the sidelines to move OU into field goal range. Thought Manny Choice (2 catches) stood out and while he wasn’t targeted much, Elijah Thomas was running open pretty much all day.
TE: 3* (Last week: 2*)
Rocky Beers notched 4 receptions, a couple chain movers and was solid on the day. Hayden Hansen added a first down reception, but he also had a bad penalty. Not a big day for the group, but solid overall.
OL: 4* (Last week: Low 3*)
Despite being banged up (3 starters out or out of position) the Sooners offensive line put forth their best and most complete outing of the season against a very good Texas defensive front. A LOT of what we saw was exactly what we thought we would see when the offense got competent QB play and more consistent play calling. The move away from the RPO, the commitment to the run game, some deep shots, and a quick passing game all helped the OL find a rhythm, particularly in the second half. It’s amazing how much better things look when the QB is not sabotaging the offense, and in this case, the OL didn’t do anything extraordinary; they were just allowed to play and fire off the ball instead of waiting to see what John would do.
DL: 5* (Last week: 5*)
David Stone was the best player on the field. Period. His stats weren’t flashy but his impact could not be denied. Trent Wilson has officially arrived and while his sack was really a coverage sack, he did what a dominant DL should do and shut the play down. Bishop Thomas had some really bright moments as he was quick off the ball and Jayden Jackson’s impact in the game has been very underrated as he took on and occupied multiple linemen almost every snap. Another strong outing for this group.
EDGE: 4* (Last week: Low 3*)
The Texas offensive tackles will look forward to not having to see Taylor Wein next week. Wein was throwing the Horns linemen around for much of the second half. PJ Adebawore was very stout against the run as well. Then OU brings in Jake Kreul who was bullying guys 100 pounds heavier and 3 years older than him while Danny Okoye was consistently disrupting the pocket. Wyatt Gilmore also flashed a few times. Very nice day for the EDGE guys.
LB: 4* (Last week: 4*)
Best game as a duo for Owen Heinecke and Kip Lewis? I think it may have been. Heinecke led the team in tackles and Lewis appeared to always be the guy in the right spot at the right time. Cole Sullivan was a bit rusty as he was just returning, but he gave the LBs some quality reps and let Kip and Owen catch their breath.
CB: High 4* (Last week: 3*)
I know it’s a 4* rating, but I honestly don’t know that they had a 5* ceiling on the day as Trystan Haynes was getting his first start and while Sark tested him, and found some success, Haynes got better as the game went on. On the other side, Courtland Guillory had that huge interception and played very well throughout most of the game, and I think his PI penalty late in the game was actually a very smart play cause he knew Coleman was about to beat him. I love the confidence these youngsters played with, and they will need to carry that over to the Kentucky game. Oh…each of them played every defensive snap of the game.
S: 5* (Last week: 2*)
Having a difficult time here handing out this 5*, but Peyton Bowen deserves it. Not only did Bowen have the pick 6, but he made multiple crucial stops in the open field, including the one late in the 4th quarter on 3rd down that set up the Horns missed field goal. The safety spot opposite Bowen still has work to do in coverage, but both Robinson and Boganowski were solid in the physical game and run stopping. Bowen carries the room to the earned 5*.
ST: 5* (Last week: 2*)
Tate Sandell got his groove back at the right time. After missing his first field goal, he stepped up and drilled the next two opportunities, including the walk-off winner.
The punt block was something that will go down in RRS lore and Danny Okoye and Dakoda Fields will remain legends.
Punting was a bit shaky to start, but that evened out, and there were no mistakes in the return game.
No Rest for the Weary | The Trap Has Been Set
– Charlie S – Posted on: October 13, 2026
This Kentucky game has been on my radar since the schedule came out…OU has to be on their toes this week. I’ve been saying things like I said below about the game for months:
One might be tempted to overlook Kentucky, but that would be a mistake. The Wildcats are 5-1 for a reason, and Will Stein’s offense is capable of putting points on the board in a hurry.
Kentucky is averaging 35 points and more than 414 yards per game. The Wildcats have shown they can hurt you through the air, but the running game is what makes this offense dangerous. They put up 390 rushing yards against South Alabama, and CJ Baxter ripped off a 77-yard run against LSU. This isn’t an offense OU can afford to sleepwalk through.
There are concerns. Alabama held Kentucky to just 17 points and 209 total yards, proving this offense can be slowed down when it can’t establish the run. But Kentucky has also won back-to-back one-point games against South Carolina and LSU. This team has shown it can hang around and find a way to win.
OU better come ready to play. Kentucky isn’t Alabama or Georgia, but the Wildcats are plenty capable of making this uncomfortable if the Sooners show up flat. After the emotional high of beating Texas, a letdown is a real concern. OU can’t afford to confuse last week’s celebration with this week’s preparation.
The Lessons to Learn
– Super K – Posted on: October 13, 2026
There is a lot the Sooners can learn from last weekend. One of them is not that John Mateer is “back.”
I believe, the lesson is that for the Sooners to win they have to have a clear understanding of who they are and how they are most likely to win.
***OU is a defensive team. That is obvious but it needs to be repeated in tandem with the following…
***OU is not a strong offensive team. Why does that matter? Because the Sooners are, in my estimation, better off assuming they will be a second half team for the rest of the year.
***Because you’re a defensive team, the Sooners can be patient with the offense and use the first quarter and a half or even the whole first half to prepare the offense for success in the second half.
***How? Again, run the ball. They ran a little more this past week and it’s no surprise that the big run came in the second half. Run games in the SEC don’t typically work early. The OU fan base still hasn’t come through customs when it comes to understanding the SEC difference. There is no more of that standing behind an OL and patting the ball and there is no more assuming you’re going to run counter in the first quarter and be able to run effectively.
***I’ve said it before, the Sooners used to face two or three NFL DL the whole year in the Big 12. Now? TAMU had three DL get drafted last year, alone.
***The Sooners can’t be stubborn with the run but they have to accept, it’s not usually going to work well in the first half. So it has to be a process. And, you have to do enough, even as a decoy, in the pass game to keep them from overplaying against the run.
***But I’d still like to see Avant get maybe another three to five carries.
***I really want to see Hatton pick up another three to five carries, as well. I have a feeling that kid is almost ready to break out. Can feel the twitch in his game. The game is moving a little fast for him right now. But I caught glimpses in the Texas game where it looked he just needs a few more touches to get comfortable.
***You have to set John up for success which means understanding his strengths and the areas he isn’t as strong in. He does not have touch on the ball. He’s not going to give you any consistency on anything down the field. He either won’t see it or he will miss it. That’s fine. It’s just what it is. If something in that arena changes, it’s the cherry on top. But I wouldn’t rely on it.
***What he can do is throw the ball to open WRs on a line. So set him with a lot of those passes by…
***Taking shots early even if you aren’t expecting them to pan out. Let him get his nerves out. Let him make his mistakes in a place where the defense can make up for them. And send a message to the opposing DC. Get your daggum safeties back! Oh and when you take those deep shots early, please let them be to Elijah. That kid is probably an NFL WR and he probably knows it even if no one else does and the Sooners need to at least act like they want him to stay.
***Again, feed your backs. Let Mateer take his run snaps early just to let the DC know it’s there. It’s not going to work but it will change the way they play you. And, if you go full Sun Tzu and hide that for the remainder of the game, the QB run game will be there later in the game.
***You’re trying to make sure that they can’t focus on the run by setting John up with the kinds of passes he is good at making.
***No trick plays. That’s not OU’s game and you risk turning the ball over.
***Any risk of a turnover should always been limited to a position where the Sooners defense can recover.
***This is a second half team. The defense should keep you within ten points or so and the investment the offense makes in the first half should lead to success in the second half.
***Perhaps I’m wrong but right now, it feels like this is the only formula that can be reasonably relied upon. What I’m most concerned about is the Mateer is “back” narrative leading to a return to hero ball. The reason that is problematic is that if John doesn’t lead you down for points, at worst you turn the ball over and at best, you’ve made no deposits for an offensive second half run.
***If John comes out firing and he’s putting up points, great. That’s a win win but playing for the second half gives you a better chance of winning when the QB play isn’t what you’d hope. Again, again, that requires set up and patience and everyone knowing where their strengths and weaknesses are.
Know Your Opponent | Kentucky – 2026
– Charlie S – Posted on: October 14, 2026
Will Stein – Head Coach – 1st year
Joe Sloan – Offensive Coordinator – 1st year
Jay Bateman – Defensive Coordinator – 1st year
Kentucky enters Norman at 5-1 overall and 3-1 in SEC play, riding a four-game winning streak under first-year head coach Will Stein. The Wildcats are averaging nearly 35 points per game and have shown they can run the football and make plays through the air. They knocked off South Carolina and LSU in consecutive one-point overtime thrillers, but their 45-17 loss to Alabama exposed some defensive concerns. Kentucky comes to Norman with plenty of confidence after its win over LSU, and OU cannot afford to overlook a team that has proven it can win close games.
On offense…
Kentucky’s offense under Will Stein is an up-tempo, spread-based attack that blends a vertical passing game with an aggressive rushing attack. The Wildcats use pre-snap motion, misdirection and space to create favorable matchups, while relying on explosive runs and play-action to keep defenses guessing. For OU, the key is containing the run without allowing easy throws over the top.
QB #3 Kenny Minchey — The senior transfer from Notre Dame leads Kentucky’s passing attack. Through five games, he had thrown for 1,148 yards, 11 touchdowns and one interception while completing 68.3% of his passes. His ball security will be critical against OU’s opportunistic defense.
RB #1 CJ Baxter — The former Texas running back is Kentucky’s lead back. He brings power and big-play ability, including a reported 77-yard run against LSU. OU must contain him early to prevent Kentucky from controlling the game on the ground.
WR #7 DJ Miller — The 6-foot-3 receiver provides size on the outside and the ability to challenge defensive backs downfield. His availability should be monitored heading into Saturday.
WR #4 Nic Anderson — The former Oklahoma receiver gives Kentucky a familiar deep threat. He caught five passes for 80 yards and a touchdown against South Carolina.
WR #19 Kenny Darby — The freshman has emerged as one of Kentucky’s most productive receivers. Through five games, he had 25 receptions for 322 yards and three touchdowns. His ability to work underneath and create yards after the catch makes him an important target.
TE #81 Willie Rodriguez — Rodriguez contributes as both a blocker and receiver. Kentucky’s use of multiple-tight-end formations can help establish the run and create opportunities for play-action passes.
LT #53 Lance Heard — The senior left tackle is a key protector of Minchey’s blind side. He has been a fixture in the starting lineup and brings valuable experience to Kentucky’s offensive front.
LG #73 Olaus Alinen — The senior guard transferred from Alabama and brings experience from a major college program. He is an important piece of Kentucky’s interior blocking and run-game execution.
C #72 Coleton Price — The fifth-year center transferred from Baylor and anchors the middle of the offensive line. His communication and ability to handle defensive movement will be important against OU’s defensive front.
RG #77 Tegra Tshabola — The fifth-year guard arrived from Ohio State. He provides experience and size on the interior, helping Kentucky create running lanes and protect Minchey.
RT #71 Malachi Wood — The senior right tackle stands 6-foot-8 and weighs 329 pounds. His size and experience give Kentucky a substantial presence on the right side of the offensive line.
The big picture for OU…
***Contain CJ Baxter. Kentucky’s rushing attack can take over a game if OU allows explosive runs early.
***Pressure Minchey without losing contain. His early-season efficiency makes him dangerous when he has time to find his receivers.
***Account for Anderson and Darby. Anderson brings explosive-play potential, while Darby has been a consistent target in the passing game.
***Kentucky’s offensive line has provided a veteran presence up front (OU pursued both players on the left side), helping fuel an explosive rushing attack while giving Minchey time to operate. OU will be a good test for them.
On defense…
Kentucky runs an aggressive, multiple-front defense that mixes four-man fronts with pressure packages and disguises coverages to keep quarterbacks guessing. The Wildcats look to create disruption up front, attack gaps and force mistakes, but that aggression can leave openings in coverage and create opportunities for explosive plays if OU can handle the pressure.
DE #90 Mi’Quise Humphrey-Grace — Kentucky’s veteran defensive end and one of its most disruptive defenders. Through six games, he had recorded 17 tackles, 2.5 sacks, four tackles for loss and an interception returned for a touchdown. He is a major player for OU’s offensive line to account for.
NT #94 Tavion Gadson — The senior defensive tackle brings size and strength to the middle of Kentucky’s defensive front. Through five games in the available statistical tracking, he had 17 tackles, three tackles for loss and 1.5 sacks. His ability to occupy blockers will be important against OU’s rushing attack.
DT #91 Jaden Williams — The veteran transfer from Wyoming adds experience and interior depth. He had recorded 12 tackles, one tackle for loss and a forced-fumble recovery in the available early-season tracking. Kentucky will need him to help control the line of scrimmage.
LOLB #15 Cedric Works — The sophomore outside linebacker provides length and versatility along the edge. Through four games, he had seven tackles and three passes defended. His ability to contribute in coverage as well as against the run makes him an interesting matchup for OU’s offensive personnel.
WLB #0 Elijah “Bo” Barnes — The young linebacker transferred to Kentucky and has worked into the starting lineup. He brings athleticism to the second level, though his production is still developing.
MLB #22 Grant Godfrey — Godfrey is the centerpiece of Kentucky’s linebacker group and its leading tackler. Through six games, he had 52 tackles, three tackles for loss, two sacks and one interception.
ROLB #2 Sam Greene — The senior transfer from USC gives Kentucky an experienced edge defender. Through six games, he had 22 tackles, one tackle for loss, 1.5 sacks and an interception. His pass-rush ability could be important if Kentucky can put OU into obvious passing situations.
LCB #12 Hasaan Sykes — The transfer cornerback is projected to start on the left side. He had recorded 19 tackles through five games in the available statistical tracking.
SS #14 Ty Bryant — Bryant is an experienced safety who contributes in both run support and pass coverage. Through six games, he had 42 tackles, one interception and a half-sack.
FS #5 Jordan Castell — Castell is a key piece of Kentucky’s secondary and one of its most productive defenders. Through six games, he had 47 tackles, two interceptions and two passes defended. His ability to read the quarterback and create turnovers will be especially important against OU.
RCB #20 Terhyon Nichols — Nichols is projected to start at right cornerback. Through four games, he had recorded 20 tackles and one tackle for loss.
NB #3 Aaron Gates — Gates is Kentucky’s projected nickel defensive back, giving the Wildcats an extra coverage option against spread formations. His role can involve covering slot receivers, supporting the run and blitzing.
The big picture for OU…
***Protect against Humphrey-Grace. His pass-rush production makes him Kentucky’s most obvious threat to disrupt the pocket.
***Know where Godfrey and Castell are. Both have been productive tacklers, and Castell’s two interceptions show his ability to create turnovers.
***Make Kentucky defend consistently. The Wildcats have playmakers, but OU can test their discipline by mixing the run, quick throws and quarterback movement.
Bottom line…
***Protect the football. OU cannot afford turnovers that give Kentucky short fields or swing momentum. John Mateer needs to make smart decisions, take what the defense gives him, and avoid forcing throws. Winning the turnover battle starts with not giving the ball away.
***Establish the run. OU needs to commit to the ground game early, stay ahead of the chains, and keep Kentucky’s defense from teeing off on obvious passing downs. A productive running game also helps control the tempo.
***Contain Kentucky’s rushing attack. The Wildcats have shown they can create explosive plays on the ground, including CJ Baxter’s 77-yard run against LSU. Oklahoma’s defensive front and linebackers must maintain gap discipline, tackle well, and prevent one run from becoming a game-changing score.
***Win on third down. Kentucky has been aggressive about extending drives. OU needs to get off the field, create negative plays, and force quarterback Kenny Minchey into obvious passing situations where the defensive front can pressure him.
***Make Kentucky defend the entire field. OU needs more consistency from John Mateer and the passing game. Get Isaiah Sategna III involved, create opportunities for the tight ends, and take advantage of one-on-one matchups without abandoning the run.
***Avoid the emotional letdown. Beating Texas was a massive boost, but Kentucky is 5-1 and coming off a win over LSU. OU cannot afford to show up flat or assume the Wildcats will roll over. Bring the same defensive intensity and urgency that fueled the Red River win.
Recruiting Notes | Knowles and Gash
– Charlie S – Posted on: October 14, 2026
Couple notes, one from last weekend and one for the upcoming home game against Kentucky.
***Oklahoma’s recruitment of 2027 WR Brody Knowles is one worth watching as the Sooners look to shore up their numbers at the position. OU was once in his top schools before both sides shifted their attention elsewhere. However, those lines of communication have remained open, and the Sooners are back in the picture with the Southlake Carroll standout, and they hosted him as a visitor for last week’s Red River Shootout.
The timing is worth noting. OU took a hit in its 2027 receiver class with the departures of Demare Dezeurn and Tra’Von Hall, making it important for the staff to identify options who can help fill those spots. At 6’4, Knowles brings the length and downfield ability that could add the desired dimension to the room.
Knowles is still committed to Illinois, and I wouldn’t say I hear anything imminent about that changing. But…the question is whether the renewed relationship can turn into something more. The staff has made its interest clear, and Knowles is a name to keep on the radar as OU continues working to reshape its 2027 receiver board. I really think it is important for OU to do a couple of things here: keep winning and show signs of life offensively. If they do those things, this certainly could turn into a similar situation to the Jayden Petit recruitment from last cycle.
***Texas Tech may have the commitment, but as we noted previously, Oklahoma isn’t ready to let 2027 ATH Gideon Gash slip away without a fight. The Sooners are continuing to work behind the scenes, and with Gash set to be in Norman this weekend for an official visit, OU has a prime opportunity to make up ground.
The Detroit Catholic Central standout has left the door open to the Sooners, and OU has continued working to keep itself in the conversation. At 6-foot-4, Gash brings the length and versatility Brent Venables likes defensively, with the potential to contribute at safety or closer to the line of scrimmage in the Cheetah role.
The biggest obstacle may be Texas Tech’s NIL operation. The Red Raiders have shown they’re willing to spend aggressively to build their roster, and OU will need to be prepared to compete on that front while selling Gash on the development plan and defensive role waiting for him in Norman. This weekend’s visit is an opportunity for the Sooners to make a serious push. The question is whether they can give Gash enough reason to reconsider his pledge. Again…impress the kid, win a game, and push OU’s vision for him. Source says Gash is enamored with BV and his developmental chops, and this is the opportunity the Sooners have been waiting for.
Mateer and the Sooners | How This Game Can Go
– Super K – Posted on: October 15, 2026
***Watching Kentucky, what stands out to me are the lines of scrimmage. BV mentioned in his presser that this may be the best OL the Sooners have faced all year. That is not an exaggeration. It’s probably accurate.
***What surprised me a bit was how good their front seven looked in the LSU game. Their defensive stats aren’t great but the stats don’t seem to tell the whole story. I was pretty impressed, but, again, it’s the SEC so we’ve come to expect good fronts.
***I should note that we liked their off-season haul and talent. In fact, I wrote about it back June (HERE). Here was the relevant part…
“Spoke with someone at Kentucky and someone at another program who is familiar with their talent and the feeling I got is they’re going to surprise some folks. Are they going to beat OU? I doubt it. But I don’t think this is a cake walk.”
***The question is, do I still doubt Kentucky will beat OU? I’ll get to that.
***As I was saying their lines are good on both sides of the ball.
***We know BV is a pressure guy and likes zone pressure. Kentucky’s QB, Minchey, isn’t a Heisman guy but he’s competent. He’s accurate and Stein is putting him in good positions. And he has a run game to help him.
***So, if the Sooners don’t get home it could be tough sledding. But, I think we are seeing that the Sooners back end in year two under BV are pattern matching their zones better and they appear better in man. Just, in general, I see tighter coverage. So, that should give the DL more time to get home.
***I also think, if anyone is going to perplex this talented Kentucky OL both in the pass and the run game, or get Minchey’s head to spin, it’s going to be BV.
***Should be a fantastic chess match between two highly regarded coordinators in BV and Stein.
***We don’t know if Baxter will go but he’s a savvy runner. I noticed that when we all first saw him at Texas. He’s like a rich man’s version of Kennedy Brooks. Not super flashy but he’s patient and good at setting you up.
***I fully expect BV to do what he always does, try to take away the QB’s blankie by looking to attack the run game on early downs even if it leaves his back end a little more exposed. If you can get Kentucky in 3rd and long…they have been statistically not good at all in 3rd and long.
***On offense, I’m going to contradict myself a bit from a post earlier in the week. I actually think Mateer has a chance to have a big game this week and I think some of that could be on the ground.
***I think Kentucky does a good job against the run when they have numbers or can match numbers. They look a lot less competent when the offense has an extra blocker against their defense. My guess is it’s because their secondary isn’t particularly good and while they play well together up front, I don’t think they have the kind of guys who can wreck shop.
***So, I’m going to guess that if the Sooners have success on offense this week, it’ll actually be, in part, due to Mateer’s ability to pick up some yards with his legs. And I wouldn’t mind seeing designed runs for him.
***I also like the way Kentucky plays coverage – meaning I like it for OU and Mateer. Mateer isn’t a deep threat or a big layered throw guy. But he can hit what’s in front of him and he likes to hit seem routes. I think there will be a lot of favorable coverage for Mateer to get in a rhythm. He just needs to get in a rhythm.
***My point about OU being a second half team, hasn’t changed. I still want there to be patience with the run game even if it doesn’t look great in the first half. And we obviously don’t want Mateer to turn the ball over.
***But I put John in the title of this post because watching Kentucky, I think there is a chance for the Sooners to get a lot more out of John than they’ve been getting. I think the Kentucky defense is solid but where their strengths are and how they play feels more suited to John.
***Again, there are a lot of ways this game can go. I think most believe it will be close. That’s probably the most likely outcome.
***But, I do think there is an opportunity in this game for the Sooners to have a breakout game. I don’t think there was any world where the Sooners were going to beat UGA or Texas by double digits. There is a chance for the Sooners to do that here. It starts with taking care of the ball. There is an opportunity in this game for Mateer to show a little more of his magic. And perhaps BV can welcome the younger Stein into the SEC in a way that the other team’s have yet to be able to do.
One On Ones | OU vs Kentucky 2026
– Charlie S – Posted on: October 15, 2026
The Sooners are back home to host the upstart Kentucky Wildcats!
OU comes into the contest at 3-2 while the Wildcats are 5-1.
I’ll be watching a couple of one-on-one matchups in this game as keys to Oklahoma’s success!
Let’s have a look!
One on One Number One
Oklahoma Linebacker Owen Heinecke vs. Kentucky Running Back CJ Baxter
Kentucky wants to run the football, and OU better have a plan to stop it. That puts Owen Heinecke and the Sooner linebackers squarely in the spotlight against CJ Baxter.
Baxter has been a big part of Kentucky’s offensive success, and the Wildcats want to establish the run, stay ahead of the chains and make life easier on Kenny Minchey. Let them get that ground game rolling, and suddenly Kentucky’s offense becomes a whole lot more dangerous.
That’s where Heinecke comes in. He needs to be decisive, fill his gaps and get downhill in a hurry. No waiting around, no arm tackles, and absolutely no letting Baxter bounce into the second level untouched. OU’s linebackers have to set the tone early and make Kentucky earn every yard.
Make Kentucky abandon the run game on OU’s terms. If Baxter starts ripping off chunk plays, the Wildcats will be happy to keep feeding him all afternoon. Heinecke and company need to make sure that plan goes nowhere.
One on One Number Two
Oklahoma Tight End Rocky Beers vs. Kentucky’s Banged-Up Linebacker Room
This is a matchup OU should look to exploit. Rocky Beers has become a reliable target for John Mateer, leading the Sooners’ tight ends with eight catches for 137 yards and a touchdown. He’s shown he can work the middle of the field and create explosive plays, and Kentucky’s linebacker situation could give him an opportunity to do more.
Kentucky is hurting at linebacker. Tavion Wallace and Antwan Smith are listed as out, while Alex Afari Jr. remains questionable. The Wildcats have already been forced to dig into their depth, and that creates a potential problem against an OU offense that needs easier ways to move the chains.
Beers could be the answer. If Kentucky is short-handed in the middle, OU should look to get him involved on crossing routes, underneath throws and play-action concepts. That gives Mateer a manageable option while making Kentucky’s replacement linebackers prove they can handle the assignment.
OU doesn’t need to force the ball downfield on every possession, and while Isaiah Sategna is THE featured target, they need more diversity on offense. Get Beers involved, make Kentucky defend the middle of the field and take advantage of a linebacker room that’s running thin. This is a matchup the Sooners should be looking to exploit.
One on One Number Three
Oklahoma EDGE Taylor Wein vs. Kentucky Offensive Tackle Lance Heard
This is a big one in the trenches. Kentucky LT Lance Heard brings SEC experience and size to the table at 6-foot-6, 325 pounds. He’s been reliable in pass protection, making him a tough assignment for OU’s Taylor Wein.
Wein has shown he can disrupt an offense, but he’ll need to win with quickness, leverage and an effective first move rather than trying to overpower Heard. In the run game, getting penetration and disrupting Kentucky’s blocking schemes will be just as important.
If Wein can win his share of reps, OU has a chance to put Kentucky behind the chains and force Kenny Minchey into obvious passing situations. If Heard keeps him contained, the Wildcats have a better shot at controlling the line of scrimmage.
Wein doesn’t have to dominate Heard, but he needs to make his presence felt.
Working Visitor List | Kentucky Game
– Charlie S – Posted on: October 15, 2026
With the Sooners returning home after nearly a month on the road, they are looking forward to hosting recruits and commits.
Below, you will find the working list of prospects who are scheduled to be in Norman.
As you know, the list will change and evolve, so just because you do not see a name on the list, it does not mean they will not be in town and inevitably, some of the guys on the list will not make it in for one reason or another.
The only OV set for this weekend is Texas Tech DB commit Gideon Gash, who we talked about earlier in the week.
I will update the list as we get further names and confirmation:
OV: ’27 DB – Gideon Gash – Novi, MI
OU ’27 Commits on unofficial visits:
TE Seneca Driver
OL Kaeden Penny
OL Cooper Hackett
QB Jamison Roberts
WR Greydon Howell
DL Sione Felila
OL Isaac Coughran
DB Mikyal Davis
EDGE Samuel Nelson
RB Keldrid Ben
’28 Unofficial Visitors
OL Aden Owolabi – Danville, CA
OL Joey Fleming – Huntsville, AL
OL Elisha Mueller – Bellflower, CA
S Brandon Nash – Bellflower, CA
DL Landen Wade – Chandler, AZ
S Jaelyn Easterling-Flores – Phoenix
CB Graydon Reid – Marion, MA
