Oklahoma suffered a humiliating 34-3 loss to the Texas Longhorns in last weekend’s highly anticipated Red River Showdown. The defeat left fans and analysts questioning whether the Sooners can salvage what is turning out to be a disappointing season.
Oklahoma’s offense was abysmal, especially against Texas’ stout defensive line. Michael Hawkins Jr. Hawkins, OU’s first-year quarterback, looked overwhelmed, struggling to gain rhythm behind an offensive line that offered little protection. The Longhorns’ front seven had their way with Oklahoma’s blockers, consistently pressuring Hawkins and forcing him into rushed throws and costly decisions.
The Sooners’ inability to move the ball effectively raises concerns about whether anyone can succeed under center right now. That said, Hawkins wasn’t the only quarterback option heading into the season. So, is it time to turn to Jackson Arnold or transfer quarterback Casey Thompson? Arnold, a highly-touted recruit, has also struggled this year, while Thompson, a seasoned veteran, might stabilize the offense. However, with the offensive line playing as poorly as it has, even an elite signal-caller might not succeed in this system.
Moreover, OU’s issues go beyond the quarterback position. The Sooners’ receiving corps has been ravaged by injuries, severely limiting their ability to stretch the field. The offense has looked predictable and stagnant without top weapons available, compounding the issues upfront.
The lack of offensive firepower has placed even more pressure on Seth Littrell, the Sooners’ offensive coordinator, who has become the focal point of fan frustration. In his first season calling plays, Littrell has taken heavy criticism for his inability to adjust in the face of adversity, and some are beginning to wonder if his days in Norman could be numbered. If things don’t improve, Littrell may become the scapegoat at the end of the season, as the Sooners could look to bring in a more seasoned play-caller to turn things around.
Beyond personnel and coaching questions, the bigger picture is whether Oklahoma can turn its season around. Outside of a convincing win against the FCS Maine Bears, the Sooners have looked outclassed in key matchups. The remaining schedule in a new league, with four games against ranked SEC opponents–Ole Miss, Mizzou, ‘Bama, and LSU–is difficult to say the least. It’s hard to see Oklahoma finding enough wins to secure a respectable finish, and that assumes the Sooners can beat Carolina this weekend.
With a storied tradition, playing for a bowl berth vis-a-vis competing for a CFP slot is anathema to Sooner faithful. The fan base, used to experiencing unforgettable seasons, now faces the prospect of a forgettable one.
While the Texas loss still stings, deeper issues are more concerning—from a porous offensive line to an injury-riddled roster. The Sooners need answers fast.
