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League: NCAAFSport: College SportsCountry: United StatesCategory: Injuries

Oklahoma prepares for challenging 2026 college football season opener

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 15, 2026, 6:00 PM

Last updated Jul 15, 2026

Oklahoma prepares for challenging 2026 college football season opener
Summary

The Oklahoma Sooners begin their 2026 college football season on September 4 against UTEP. Analysts predict a tough road ahead, with the Sooners facing one of the nation’s toughest schedules, ranked second by ESPN's FPI. J.D. PicKell highlights Oklahoma's talent, suggesting they can overcome adversity despite a challenging SEC transition last season. Key players, including a healthy quarterback John Mateer, are expected to lead the team as they aim for a return to the College Football Playoff.

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Yahoo Sports
Status Watch
  • •Oklahoma faces UTEP in season opener on September 4.
  • •ESPN's FPI ranks Oklahoma's schedule as second-toughest.
  • •J.D. PicKell predicts Oklahoma can return to playoff contention.
  • •John Mateer returns healthy, contributing to team strength.
  • •Last year's season showed Oklahoma's ability to overcome adversity.
Latest Updates
  • 6:00 PMYahoo Sports — J.D. PicKell: 'Oklahoma is going to be a wagon once again'
What they're saying
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J.D. PicKell believes Oklahoma has everything needed to make another College Football Playoff run.

Related Teams & Leagues
NCAAFCollege Sports

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