Oklahoma opens college football season with 51-0 shutout against UTEP
2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 5, 2026, 3:43 AM
Last updated Sep 5, 2026

The Oklahoma Sooners began their 2026 college football season with a 51-0 victory over UTEP at Gaylord Family — Oklahoma Memorial Stadium on Friday. Quarterback John Mateer led the offense by completing 11 of 17 pass attempts for 225 yards and three touchdowns, while Lloyd Avant contributed 79 rushing yards and a score. Isaiah Sategna III added to the production with an 88-yard punt return touchdown and two receiving scores. The Sooners utilized a heavy tight end rotation to support their ground game, which totaled 170 yards. Defensively, the team held the Miners scoreless in the program's first shutout since a 44-0 win against Kent State last season. Oklahoma now prepares for a road game against Michigan next week.
- •Oklahoma finished with 170 rushing yards and scored on its first eight possessions.
- •True freshman Noah Best started at center for the Sooners.
- •Isaiah Sategna III recorded an 88-yard punt return touchdown in the first quarter.
- •Danny Saili appeared in the game following a temporary restraining order regarding his eligibility.
- 3:43 AMYahoo Sports — OU football overwhelms UTEP as Lloyd Avant, Rocky Beers shine in debut | 5 takeaways
"The Oklahoma Sooners opened the 2026 college football season with a 51-0 win over UTEP, led by a strong rushing attack and a punt return TD.
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