The Bedlam Series between Oklahoma State University and the University of Oklahoma is one of college football’s most storied rivalries. The rivalry has a deep-rooted history, intense fan passion, and a natural regional and cultural significance that transcends just the game itself. For decades, the annual Bedlam matchup has been a highlight of the college football season in Oklahoma, drawing attention from fans across the nation. However, changes in scheduling, conference alignments, and other external factors have threatened to diminish the rivalry’s consistent presence on the calendar, prompting concern from both fans and analysts alike. Recently, a prominent Fox Sports analyst made a compelling case for the revival of the annual Bedlam game, emphasizing its importance not only for the teams involved but for the broader landscape of college football. According to this analyst, college football simply needs Bedlam back every year.
The Bedlam Series, named after the chaotic and passionate nature of the contests, pits the Oklahoma Sooners against the Oklahoma State Cowboys. The rivalry stretches back to the early 1900s and has since become an iconic fixture in American sports. The games have often been filled with memorable moments, from unexpected upsets to thrilling finishes and legendary performances by some of college football’s greatest players. For many fans, Bedlam is more than just a game; it is a yearly tradition, a source of pride, and a cultural event that unites communities and sparks lifelong memories.
Despite its rich heritage, the Bedlam game’s scheduling has seen considerable fluctuation in recent years. Traditionally, the matchup was held annually, often serving as the climax of the regular season for both programs. However, various factors have complicated the annual scheduling. Conference realignments, evolving television contracts, and strategic scheduling decisions have all played a role in pushing the Bedlam Series out of its guaranteed yearly slot. The result has been an inconsistent Bedlam schedule, which has frustrated fans, players, and alumni who long for the regularity and anticipation that the rivalry once commanded.
The Fox analyst’s recent commentary highlights these frustrations while also providing a passionate argument for why the Bedlam game should be reinstated as a fixed annual fixture. The analyst stressed that the rivalry is a vital part of college football’s identity, especially in the state of Oklahoma. Moreover, it holds national appeal given the competitive programs, the passionate fan bases, and the cultural significance that surrounds the event. By restoring Bedlam to its rightful place as a yearly rivalry game, the analyst believes that college football can recapture some of the excitement and tradition that has become increasingly rare in the modern era of the sport.
One of the core arguments made is that rivalries like Bedlam bring something unique to college football that no other games can replicate. In an age where conferences are expanding, schedules are becoming more homogenized, and the commercialization of college sports is at an all-time high, traditional rivalries offer fans a sense of authenticity and emotional investment that money can’t buy. These games generate intense local pride, foster long-standing traditions, and create a narrative that can sustain interest throughout the season. The analyst’s view is that the return of the annual Bedlam game would help preserve this authenticity and give fans something to truly rally around each year.
The Bedlam rivalry has produced many iconic moments that have helped define college football history. From legendary players who have etched their names into the annals of the sport to unforgettable games that have impacted conference standings and national rankings, Bedlam has been a stage for drama, excellence, and passion. The rivalry’s significance extends beyond just the scoreline — it is about bragging rights, state pride, and a legacy that players and coaches aspire to be part of. When the game is absent from the schedule, these moments are lost, and the opportunity to create new history is diminished.
The analyst also pointed out that the Bedlam game has economic and cultural implications for the state of Oklahoma. The rivalry draws massive crowds, boosts local businesses, and creates an electric atmosphere in the host cities. The media attention and national spotlight on Bedlam games also serve to showcase Oklahoma’s rich football heritage to a broader audience. This exposure helps recruit top talent, energize alumni networks, and strengthen the community’s connection to both universities. Losing the annual matchup, therefore, risks weakening not just the teams’ athletic programs but also the cultural fabric that connects fans, families, and communities across the state.
Furthermore, the analyst emphasized the importance of tradition in college football, which is often cited as the sport’s greatest strength. Unlike professional leagues, college football thrives on the pageantry, history, and longstanding rivalries that give each season its unique character. The annual Bedlam game is a prime example of this tradition in action. Restoring the game to an annual event would reaffirm college football’s commitment to preserving its roots amidst rapid change. It would also signal to fans and players alike that the sport values its heritage and the emotional connections that make college football special.
In a broader context, the call for Bedlam’s return speaks to a larger conversation happening in college football about the value of rivalries and traditions in the modern era. As college football continues to evolve with playoff expansions, new conference alignments, and an increasing emphasis on national television contracts, some critics argue that traditional rivalries are at risk of being sidelined or lost altogether. The analyst’s advocacy for Bedlam’s annual return is a reminder that these rivalries are not just nostalgia but vital components of the sport’s identity and appeal. They keep fans engaged, provide meaningful storylines, and maintain a sense of continuity in an ever-changing landscape.
The issue of scheduling the Bedlam game every year is not without its challenges. Both Oklahoma and Oklahoma State belong to the Big 12 Conference, which has undergone significant changes in recent years, including membership fluctuations and altered scheduling formats. Coordinating schedules to ensure an annual Bedlam matchup requires cooperation from both institutions, conference officials, and television partners. There are also competitive and strategic considerations, as some coaches and administrators may prefer more flexibility in scheduling non-conference games or rest weeks. Despite these challenges, the analyst argues that the benefits of preserving this rivalry outweigh the logistical complexities.
Importantly, fans have consistently voiced their desire to see Bedlam return annually. Social media platforms, fan forums, and local communities have expressed frustration over the game’s absence in certain seasons, highlighting how much the rivalry means to them. For many Oklahoma football enthusiasts, Bedlam is a cornerstone of the season, a moment they circle on their calendars and eagerly anticipate. The Fox analyst’s call echoes this grassroots demand and lends it credibility by amplifying the message on a national stage. This confluence of fan passion and expert opinion adds momentum to the movement to reinstate the Bedlam Series as a yearly event.
Moreover, the return of Bedlam on an annual basis could enhance the quality of college football nationally. Rivalry games often bring out the best in teams, creating intense, hard-fought contests that capture the imagination of viewers. These games can influence conference standings, playoff implications, and national rankings, adding meaningful drama to the regular season. The Bedlam game, with its history of competitiveness and unpredictability, fits this mold perfectly. By making Bedlam a guaranteed annual showdown, the sport as a whole benefits from a marquee matchup that elevates interest and excitement.
In conclusion, the call from a Fox Sports analyst for the return of the annual Bedlam matchup highlights the enduring importance of college football rivalries. Bedlam is not just a game between Oklahoma and Oklahoma State; it is a cultural institution, a source of pride, and a cherished tradition that resonates far beyond the playing field. Bringing back Bedlam on a yearly basis would reaffirm college football’s commitment to tradition, enhance the sport’s authenticity, and provide fans with the thrilling, meaningful matchups they crave. It would also serve as a reminder that, despite the many changes sweeping through college athletics, some things—like a fierce rivalry game between two great programs—should never be lost.
As college football moves forward, the voices calling for Bedlam’s return are likely to grow louder, driven by fans, former players, and analysts who understand what this rivalry represents. The hope is that decision-makers in the Big 12 and the two universities will recognize the value of preserving this historic rivalry and work together to ensure that Bedlam remains a fixture on the college football calendar for generations to come. After all, as the Fox analyst said, college football needs Bedlam — not just for Oklahoma, but for the entire sport.
