Gabe Ikard predicts Oklahoma rushing touchdown total will double

Oklahoma enters the 2026 season looking to improve a rushing attack that averaged 118.5 yards per game last year. The Sooners scored 18 rushing touchdowns in 2025, a figure that ranked among the lowest for teams in the College Football Playoff. Former Sooner Gabe Ikard projects the team will double that total this season. The coaching staff returns running backs Xavier Robinson and Tory Blaylock to address the issue. They have also added transfer Lloyd Avant and freshman Jonathan Hatton Jr. to the roster. Improving the ground game is expected to balance the offensive scheme under coordinator Ben Arbuckle and reduce the reliance on quarterback Mateer.

• 4:01 PMYahoo Sports — Oklahoma predicted to double its rushing touchdowns in 2026