Oklahoma Eyes SEC Breakthrough with New Leaders at the Helm
<strong>Venables Takes Charge of Defense</strong>
After a shaky introduction to the SEC, Oklahoma is entering the 2025 season with renewed determination. Head coach Brent Venables is reclaiming his role as defensive play-caller following the departure of Zac Alley, a move many believe could stabilize the unit. The Sooners are determined to shake off last year’s setbacks and gain early momentum.
<strong>New Faces on Offense Bring Promise</strong>
A major development for Oklahoma is the addition of offensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle, previously with Washington State. Alongside him comes transfer quarterback John Mateer, who is expected to transform an offense that ranked just 98th in scoring nationwide in 2024. Mateer posted impressive numbers last season, throwing for over 3,000 yards and accounting for 44 total touchdowns, positioning him as a key figure in the Sooners’ revival.
<strong>QB Competition and Cole Gonzales’ Exit</strong>
The quarterback battle generated significant buzz, especially with Cole Gonzales, a two-time Walter Payton Award finalist from Western Carolina, briefly joining the team. However, following spring practices, it became clear that Mateer had secured the starting job. Gonzales opted to enter the transfer portal again, eventually landing at Pittsburgh to reunite with former coaches and seek a fresh start.
<strong>Depth Concerns in the QB Room</strong>
With Gonzales gone, Oklahoma’s quarterback depth is under scrutiny. Michael Hawkins Jr. now steps in as the backup, and freshman Jett Niu fills out the third-string spot. The coaching staff has indicated they may explore transfer options to reinforce the position.
<strong>Excitement Builds Around Mateer-Ott Duo</strong>
Much of the excitement surrounding the team stems from the dynamic backfield combination of John Mateer and Jaydn Ott. Mateer’s dual-threat abilities—over 3,100 passing yards and nearly 800 rushing yards last season—have energized the fanbase. Meanwhile, Ott, a former standout from Cal, has been recognized as one of the most dangerous running backs in college football when healthy. He ran for more than 1,300 yards and 12 touchdowns in 2023.
The synergy between Mateer and Ott is already catching national attention. Mateer’s versatility in run-pass option schemes opens up space for Ott to exploit, while Ott’s explosive speed and receiving skills prevent defenses from locking in on one threat. Pro Football Focus recently graded Mateer at 84.1 and Ott at a remarkable 90.1, signaling their potential to become one of the country’s most feared QB-RB tandems.
<strong>Looking Ahead to the 2025 Season</strong>
With Venables doubling down on his commitment by taking over defensive duties and bolstering the coaching staff, Oklahoma appears focused on rewriting their narrative in the SEC. Though there are still gaps to address—particularly in quarterback depth—the foundation seems strong. The chemistry between Mateer and Ott could be the spark that drives the Sooners to conference contention.
The question remains: Is this the beginning of a new era for Oklahoma football, or will the pressure of the SEC prove too much? One thing’s for sure—fans will be watching closely.