Paul Finebaum questions Oklahoma's top-10 viability for 2026 season
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 18, 2026, 10:06 AM
Last updated Aug 18, 2026

ESPN analyst Paul Finebaum expressed skepticism about the Oklahoma Sooners' ability to maintain a top-10 ranking heading into the 2026 season. Specifically, he highlighted the team's challenging schedule as a major concern, particularly with tough SEC matchups and a nonconference game against Michigan. Oklahoma head coach Brent Venables has led the team to mixed results, with two losing seasons and two double-digit-win seasons in his tenure. The Sooners are coming off a College Football Playoff appearance, but overcoming this season's demanding slate will be critical for their success.
- •Paul Finebaum doubts Oklahoma's top-10 finish due to a tough schedule.
- •Oklahoma faces several SEC challenges and a nonconference game at Michigan.
- •Brent Venables has recorded two losing seasons in his four-year tenure.
- •The Sooners reached the College Football Playoff last season.
- 10:06 AMYahoo Sports — Paul Finebaum puts Oklahoma on blast ahead of 2026 season
"Paul Finebaum doubts Oklahoma can finish in the top 10 because of its demanding 2026 schedule.
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