Oklahoma opens 2026 season against UTEP in Norman

The Oklahoma Sooners begin their 2026 college football season on Friday with a home game against the University of Texas at El Paso Miners. This marks the team's first appearance since their loss to the Alabama Crimson Tide in the College Football Playoff. Quarterback John Mateer returns to lead the offense for his final season after playing through a broken thumb for much of the previous year. Mateer characterized the Miners as a physically disciplined opponent with significant returning personnel that requires focused preparation. Ranked No. 10 in the AP Poll, Oklahoma enters the contest with key returning starters on defense and offense. The performance serves as an initial assessment for the Sooners as they attempt to establish consistency early in their schedule.

• 12:02 PMYahoo Sports — Oklahoma's John Mateer reveals what's impressed him about UTEP