Scouting Report: Oklahoma

Texas is looking for its third straight win against Oklahoma in the 122nd meeting between the two programs. The Sooners enter the Cotton Bowl at 2-2 on the season, with road losses to Michigan and Georgia. In typical Brent Venables fashion, Oklahoma has paired a very strong defense with a very questionable offense.

Offense

The hope all offseason out of Norman was that QB John Mateer would take a step forward in his second season as the starter after playing through a thumb injury in the second half of 2025. It has not happened. Mateer has tossed 4 interceptions so far this season and also contributed multiple fumbles. While his completion percentage is up to 66% (compared to 62% in 2025), the crippling turnovers and quiet start to the season with his legs (76 rushing yards and 0 touchdowns) are a microcosm of the OU offense.

Oklahoma was one of the worst teams in the country at running the ball last year, and this year has not been any better. Colorado State transfer Lloyd Avant is the leading rusher (164 yards) and has scored the only touchdown from an OU running back this season. As a team, the Sooners are rushing for 2.9 yards per carry.

Injuries and underperformance have hampered the Oklahoma offensive line. Star LT Michael Fasusi has barely played this season due to a shoulder injury and it is not known if he will be healthy enough to return in Dallas. Arkansas transfer E’Marion Harris has struggled at RT and the Sooners have had a revolving door at the interior spots as they look for the right combination.

The two biggest bright spots on the OU offense are WR Isaiah Sategna and TE Rocky Beers. They are the only two players with double-digit receptions and have combined for over 500 yards receiving. Former Longhorn Parker Livingstone has seen limited snaps (6 catches for 51 yards).

Defense

If Oklahoma hopes to pull the upset on Saturday, it will need its defense to play lights out. And the unit is certainly capable.

The Sooners rank inside the top 20 nationally in scoring defense, pass defense and 3rd down defense. Defensive tackles Jayden Jackson and David Stone are one of the better duos in the SEC, but it is worth noting that Stone dislocated his knee several weeks ago. He played against Georgia, but was at less than 100% and it impacted his performance.

Kip Lewis was a player to note heading into the season, but he has also battled injury and has only recorded 8 tackles. Former walk-on Owen Heinecke leads the team with 27 tackles.

The Oklahoma secondary appears to be the strength of the defense. Safety Peyton Bowen has never-ending eligibility, and his brother, Eli, is a multi-year starter at cornerback. Fellow safety Reggie Powers is a quality player.

Oklahoma averages 7 tackles for loss per game, and Texas has struggled to prevent negative plays.

Final Thoughts

Oklahoma has the defense to compete for 4 quarters against Texas. The real questions come on the other side of the ball and if Mateer can prevent the back-breaking turnovers to set Texas up with cheap points.

Texas has had its own offensive struggles and will need to show much better consistency in the passing game.

It is also worth noting that Oklahoma has a strong special teams unit, and the Longhorns had some special teams adventures the last time they took the field in Knoxville.