In the world of college football, few programs boast the level of success and tradition that the University of Oklahoma (OU) has experienced over the years. Known for its dynamic offenses, Heisman-winning quarterbacks, and national championships, OU football has seen its fair share of highs and lows. The 2024 season, unfortunately, fell into the category of a challenging year for the Sooners, with inconsistencies on both sides of the ball and an inability to live up to the lofty expectations placed on the team. However, amidst the struggles, there was a bright spot that kept the Oklahoma faithful optimistic and reminded everyone of the magic the program can create—Baker Mayfield.
While the 2024 season was marked by underperformance on the field, Baker Mayfield’s influence, legacy, and connection to the program provided an inspiring storyline that helped reignite hope for the Sooners’ future. As one of the most iconic players in Oklahoma football history, Mayfield’s presence and the reminder of his electric playstyle brought a sense of pride to the program and its fans. His connection to the university and its culture highlighted the importance of leadership, passion, and perseverance, even in times of adversity.
The Struggles of the 2024 Oklahoma Sooners
For a program like Oklahoma, which has consistently been a fixture in the College Football Playoff conversation, the 2024 season was a bitter pill to swallow. The Sooners had entered the season with high hopes, especially after their successful recruitment and recent efforts to build a strong foundation under head coach Brent Venables. After all, Oklahoma had everything it needed: a storied football tradition, passionate fan support, and elite recruits. Yet, despite all this, the team’s performances throughout the season were far from the championship-caliber football that Sooners fans had grown accustomed to.
On the offensive side, quarterback Dillon Gabriel showed flashes of brilliance, but he struggled with consistency. His performance was sometimes marred by erratic play and turnovers, which stunted the team’s offensive momentum. The offensive line, which had been a strength for many years at Oklahoma, faced struggles in pass protection and run blocking, often failing to provide Gabriel the time he needed to make plays. Wide receivers also battled with injuries, leaving the Sooners with a lack of depth at the skill positions.
On the defensive side of the ball, the Sooners were also inconsistent. Though there were flashes of defensive brilliance, particularly with standout individual performances, the defense as a whole was often overpowered by better, more physical teams. Missed tackles, blown coverages, and lapses in judgment plagued the defense, making it difficult for them to hold leads or shut down opposing offenses in crucial moments. This was especially problematic as the Sooners entered their new phase of play in the SEC, where the physicality and speed of the game were elevated.
All these struggles led to an underwhelming 2024 season. The Sooners weren’t able to claim a Big 12 championship, nor did they make a significant splash in the national rankings. It was a tough year by Oklahoma standards, and fans began to grow frustrated, questioning the future direction of the program.
Enter Baker Mayfield: A Ray of Hope
While the Sooners’ 2024 season may not have unfolded as fans hoped, there was one individual who remained a beacon of hope and inspiration throughout it all—Baker Mayfield. Mayfield’s relationship with Oklahoma football and its fans is one that transcends the typical player-coach dynamic. Mayfield, who led the Sooners to a national championship game appearance, multiple Big 12 titles, and, of course, the 2017 Heisman Trophy, had established himself as one of the most beloved players in the history of the program. His leadership, confidence, and knack for making big plays made him a star at OU, and his legacy continues to resonate within the team and fan base.
Despite his professional career taking him to the NFL, where he has played for multiple teams, Mayfield’s impact on Oklahoma football has never waned. In 2024, his legacy continued to be a source of motivation for the team, and it was not just because of his on-field success. His fiery competitiveness, leadership qualities, and loyalty to the Sooners have left a lasting imprint on the program, one that served as a reminder of the standards that had been set in Norman.
Mayfield’s influence on the 2024 Sooners was felt not only in a motivational sense but also in a more tangible way. For example, Mayfield made a concerted effort to return to Oklahoma during the offseason to work with players, give speeches, and support the program. Whether it was through community events, social media messages, or simply showing up for games, Mayfield was there, offering his unwavering support. His involvement helped to bridge the gap between the old and new eras of Oklahoma football, reminding everyone of the greatness that had come before them and the potential that lay ahead.
Mayfield’s return to Oklahoma also aligned with the narrative of leadership and accountability. As the Sooners faced adversity, Mayfield’s example became a symbol of how to overcome challenges with grit and determination. Even in a difficult year, his legacy loomed large as a reminder that Oklahoma football had been—and could once again be—great.
Mayfield’s Role as a Mentor
For the young players on the 2024 Oklahoma roster, having someone like Baker Mayfield around was invaluable. Mayfield’s leadership qualities were well-known during his time at OU, and they were just as apparent when he returned to Norman in a mentoring capacity. One of the greatest assets he provided to the team was his experience—both the highs of leading the Sooners to a national championship game and the lows of dealing with difficult losses. Mayfield had been through the grind of a high-pressure college football environment, and his words carried weight with the current players.
Quarterbacks on the roster, such as Dillon Gabriel and the young recruits looking to earn playing time in future seasons, had a unique opportunity to learn from one of the best quarterbacks in recent college football history. Mayfield’s playing style, known for its aggression, improvisation, and clutch performance, was exactly what the team needed to remind them of the qualities that could elevate them to another level. Whether it was small nuggets of wisdom about reading defenses, understanding offensive schemes, or dealing with adversity, Mayfield’s advice was crucial for instilling confidence in the program’s future.
Moreover, Mayfield served as a link to the rich history of Oklahoma football. Players who had only heard about the greatness of past teams could now look to Mayfield as someone who had lived it and embodied that spirit. He was the living embodiment of what it meant to be a Sooner—a relentless, confident competitor who never backed down from a challenge, no matter the odds.
Mayfield’s Influence on Recruiting
Another aspect of Mayfield’s impact on the 2024 season was his influence on recruiting. Oklahoma, despite the struggles of the 2024 season, continued to attract top-tier talent, and much of that was due to the presence of players like Mayfield who had put Oklahoma on the national map. The idea of playing for a program with a history of success—and with a former Heisman-winning quarterback who had gone on to achieve success in the NFL—was a huge draw for recruits.
Mayfield’s ability to connect with recruits during his visits and through social media was invaluable. Recruits saw the type of player they could become under the guidance of a quarterback like Mayfield and a coaching staff committed to rebuilding the program. His story, from walk-on to Heisman winner, became a source of inspiration for young athletes looking to follow in his footsteps and contribute to the next era of Oklahoma football.
Mayfield’s Legacy: More Than Just Football
Baker Mayfield’s influence on Oklahoma football extended far beyond his time as the quarterback of the team. His legacy is not just defined by his Heisman Trophy or his records at OU; it is defined by the way he carried himself on and off the field. Mayfield was known for his cocky, competitive attitude, but also for his sense of humor, humility, and authenticity. He connected with fans on a personal level, and his presence in Norman continues to be felt as a positive force that transcends wins and losses.
For the Oklahoma Sooners, the 2024 season was a reminder that football is more than just about the scoreboard. It’s about the heart of the program, the people who support it, and the pride that comes with wearing the crimson and cream. Baker Mayfield, even as the team faced a tough season, continued to embody everything that is great about Oklahoma football. His impact, both as a player and a mentor, kept the spirit of the Sooners alive, even in a year of struggle.
Conclusion
The 2024 season was undoubtedly a difficult one for the Oklahoma Sooners. With a team that couldn’t live up to its expectations, frustrations were high and the path to success appeared clouded. However, in the midst of it all, Baker Mayfield’s continued involvement with the program provided a much-needed ray of hope. His leadership, mentorship, and undying connection to Oklahoma football reminded everyone what the program was built on: hard work, dedication, and the pursuit of greatness.
While the struggles of 2024 will be remembered as a low point, Baker Mayfield’s influence on the team is a legacy that continues to inspire, offering hope for the future of Oklahoma football. His example will remain a guiding force as the Sooners look ahead to better seasons, knowing that greatness can always be achieved with the right mindset, dedication, and heart.