What's Happening?
The Oklahoma Sooners have been ranked No. 11 in USA TODAY Sports' preseason 1-136 rankings for the 2025 college football season. This ranking places them as the fifth-best team in the SEC, trailing Georgia, Texas, Alabama, and LSU. The Sooners are looking to improve upon their previous season's 6-7 record, with new additions such as offensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle, quarterback John Mateer, and running back Jaydn Ott expected to bolster their performance. Despite being unranked in the US LBM Coaches Poll, Oklahoma is ranked No. 18 in the Associated Press Poll. Their season opener is scheduled against Illinois State on August 30th.
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Why It's Important?
The ranking is significant as it reflects expectations for the Sooners' performance in the upcoming season, highlighting their potential to be a competitive force in the SEC. The team's improvements in the offseason, particularly on the offensive side, suggest a possible turnaround from last year's disappointing record. This ranking also impacts the perception of the SEC, showcasing its strength with multiple teams in the top 25. For Oklahoma, a strong season could enhance their reputation and influence recruiting efforts, while also affecting the dynamics within the conference.
What's Next?
Oklahoma will begin their season with a home game against Illinois State, providing an opportunity to demonstrate their improved capabilities. As the season progresses, their performance will be closely watched to see if they can meet or exceed the expectations set by their preseason ranking. Success in early games could lead to higher rankings and increased attention from national media and scouts.
