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League: NCAAFSport: College SportsCountry: United StatesCategory: Scores & Results

Oklahoma opens the 2026 college football season against UTEP in Norman

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 3, 2026, 12:03 PM

Last updated Sep 3, 2026

Oklahoma opens the 2026 college football season against UTEP in Norman
Summary

The Oklahoma Sooners begin their 2026 college football campaign on Friday night with a home game against the UTEP Miners in Norman. Oklahoma enters the contest as the favorites following a 10-2 record and a College Football Playoff appearance last season. UTEP, which has managed only five total wins over the past two years, faces a program currently considered a contender in the SEC. Sooners staff projections anticipate a focus on the running game and defensive pressure, with expectations for John Mateer to lead the offense under coordinator Ben Arbuckle. The matchup serves as a season-opening test for Oklahoma before their subsequent game against Michigan. Players and staff look to establish a rhythm early, utilizing depth throughout the roster in anticipation of a lopsided result.

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By the Numbers
  • •Oklahoma hosts UTEP on Friday to open the 2026 season.
  • •The Sooners own a 5-0 all-time record against the Miners.
  • •Oklahoma is coming off a 10-2 season and a College Football Playoff appearance.
  • •John Mateer enters his fourth year playing in the offense of Ben Arbuckle.
  • •UTEP enters the game with an inexperienced offense and a new quarterback.
Latest Updates
  • 12:03 PMYahoo Sports — Oklahoma vs. UTEP: Sooners Wire Staff Predictions
What they're saying
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The Oklahoma Sooners open the season against the UTEP Miners on Friday night. The Sooners Wire staff predicts the outcome for Week 1.

Related Teams & Leagues
NCAAFCollege Sports

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