What's Happening?
Oklahoma football has been left out of the preseason Coaches Poll for the first time since 1999, marking a significant shift for the team. Despite receiving 221 votes, Oklahoma fell short of the No. 25 spot held by Boise State, which garnered 246 votes. The Sooners faced challenges last season, finishing with a 6-7 record and losing in the Armed Forces Bowl to Navy. Under head coach Brent Venables, Oklahoma has experienced mixed results, including a 10-3 campaign in 2023. However, optimism remains for the 2025 season, with a strong recruiting class and a new offensive coordinator, Ben Arbuckle, who previously led Washington State to a top scoring offense.
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Why It's Important?
Oklahoma's absence from the preseason Coaches Poll is notable given their historical presence in the rankings. This development could impact the team's morale, recruitment efforts, and fan support. The ranking also reflects the competitive nature of the SEC, where Oklahoma is predicted to finish 10th, facing tough opponents like Alabama, South Carolina, and Tennessee. The team's performance this season will be crucial in reshaping perceptions and potentially regaining a spot in future polls. The changes in coaching staff and recruitment strategies highlight the team's efforts to improve and adapt to the challenges of competing in a strong conference.
What's Next?
Oklahoma will aim to leverage its new offensive strategies and recruitments to improve its performance in the upcoming season. The team faces a challenging schedule, including road games against ranked SEC opponents, which will test their capabilities and resilience. Success in these matchups could lead to a reevaluation of their position in future polls and influence their chances of postseason play.
