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Sport: College SportsCountry: United StatesCategory: Breaking News

Caleb Nitta expected to start at center for Oklahoma against UTEP

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 2, 2026, 4:26 PM

Last updated Sep 2, 2026

Caleb Nitta expected to start at center for Oklahoma against UTEP
Summary

Oklahoma prepares for its season opener against UTEP this Friday with offensive line adjustments. Western Kentucky transfer Caleb Nitta is in line to start at center while Jake Maikkula remains out. Coach Brent Venables expressed confidence in Nitta, noting his maturity and competitive approach after the lineman logged 653 snaps for his previous team last season. The offensive line depth remains a focus as sophomore Ryan Fodje is also reportedly sidelined with an injury sustained in practice. Meanwhile, Arkansas transfer defensive tackle Danny Saili continues to practice with the Sooners despite currently being ineligible to play. Venables indicated that Saili has integrated well during training sessions while the team monitors his eligibility status.

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Status Watch
  • •Caleb Nitta is projected to start at center for Friday's opener against UTEP.
  • •Jake Maikkula remains unavailable at center for the Sooners.
  • •Ryan Fodje is reportedly out with an injury sustained in recent practice.
  • •Danny Saili is practicing with the team despite current ineligibility.
Latest Updates
  • 4:26 PMYahoo Sports — Who is OU football's starting center vs UTEP? Sooners have confidence in Caleb Nitta
What they're saying
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OU football coach Brent Venables has been impressed with Western Kentucky transfer offensive lineman Caleb Nitta, who might start Friday for the Sooners.

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