NORMAN, OK: The Oklahoma Sooners, a program navigating a pivotal transition into the SEC, are drawing bold predictions for a 2025 resurgence. On his Always College Football podcast, analyst Greg McElroy labeled Oklahoma a “legitimate top 25 team” (Yahoo Sports), citing their transfer portal additions and defensive progress as catalysts for a rebound following a 6-7 2024 season.
Portal Moves
Head coach Brent Venables aggressively addressed roster gaps this offseason, securing two of the portal’s top playmakers:
- Jaydn Ott (RB, California): The No. 3 RB transfer tallied 2,597 rushing yards, 24 TDs, and 736 receiving yards over three seasons, injecting explosiveness into Oklahoma’s backfield.
- John Mateer (QB, Washington State): The No. 2 overall portal player posted 3,139 passing yards, 29 TDs, and 826 rushing yards with 15 scores in 2024. His dual-threat skills align with OC Ben Arbuckle’s system, offering a dynamic upgrade at quarterback.
Team Breakdown
McElroy emphasized Oklahoma’s defensive improvements, particularly in the trenches. “They continue to recruit potential starters up front,” he said, highlighting the unit’s growing physicality. With Venables’ defensive expertise and key returners, the Sooners aim to stabilize a group that struggled in SEC prep last fall. Improved line depth and schematic adjustments could ease their transition into college football‘s most demanding conference.
Future Forecast
While the 2025 SEC schedule remains daunting, McElroy believes Oklahoma’s roster momentum positions them as a sleeper. “This is a team that deserves more attention,” he stated, pointing to their blend of offensive firepower and defensive upside. For a program that dominated the Big 12 but stumbled early under Venables, 2025 offers a chance to prove SEC legitimacy. With Ott and Mateer leading a reloaded attack, and Venables’ defense poised to take a leap, the Sooners could author one of 2025’s most compelling turnaround stories.
