Why the Oklahoma Sooners Will Be Better in 2025
The Oklahoma Sooners have a rich football tradition, filled with numerous conference titles and national championships. After a few years of transition and adjusting to new coaching staff and philosophies, fans and analysts alike are starting to believe that 2025 will be a breakout year for the Sooners. With a solid mix of returning talent, a promising recruiting class, and an evolving program, here’s why the Oklahoma Sooners will be better in 2025:
1. Brent Venables’ Coaching Experience and Stability
Brent Venables is in the midst of his second season as Oklahoma’s head coach, and as the program continues to adjust to his defensive-first mentality, the Sooners will only get better. Venables, a longtime defensive coordinator at Clemson, is known for creating elite defenses and for his ability to recruit top-tier talent.
- Improved Defense: Venables’ first year as head coach had growing pains, particularly on the defensive side of the ball. However, as he continues to install his system and recruit players suited for his schemes, the Sooners’ defense is expected to take a significant leap forward in 2025. The focus on fundamentals, discipline, and player development will make Oklahoma’s defense much more formidable.
- Depth and Scheme: Under Venables, the Sooners are building depth across the roster, especially in the front seven and secondary. As his recruits mature and gain experience in his system, expect Oklahoma to have one of the more complete defenses in the Big 12 in 2025.
2. Talent-Filled Recruiting Classes
The Sooners have always been known for their ability to recruit elite talent, and this will be a huge factor in their improvement in 2025. Venables has made a concerted effort to attract top-tier players to Oklahoma, particularly in positions of need.
- Defensive Upgrades: After a few years of defensive struggles, Oklahoma’s recruiting efforts in 2023 and 2024 have focused heavily on bringing in top defensive players. The 2025 class will feature high-profile recruits who will immediately impact the Sooners’ defense, particularly at linebacker and defensive back.
- Quarterback Depth: The Sooners are always competitive at quarterback, and they’ve made significant moves to ensure that they continue to field a high-level QB in 2025. With a top-tier quarterback recruit potentially joining the program, the Sooners will have a future star under center for the next several seasons.
- O-Line and Skill Players: Recruiting efforts to bolster the offensive line and skill positions will also pay off in 2025. With young, talented players at running back, wide receiver, and tight end, the Sooners’ offense will have the tools to thrive.
3. Quarterback Play and Offensive Progression
In 2025, the quarterback position for the Oklahoma Sooners should be in excellent hands. After a few seasons of transitional play at the position, Oklahoma appears set to have a more stable and explosive quarterback room.
- Veteran Leadership: By 2025, Oklahoma’s starting quarterback will likely be either a talented transfer or a highly-rated recruit who has had a year or two to develop. With more familiarity with the system, the offense will be more dynamic and efficient.
- Consistency and Playmaking: As the offensive line and receiving corps continue to improve, the quarterback will have better protection and more options downfield. The Sooners’ quarterbacks will be able to take advantage of this talent, becoming more consistent and making explosive plays in both the air and on the ground.
4. Offensive Line Improvement
One of the key factors in Oklahoma’s anticipated improvement in 2025 will be the growth of their offensive line. After a few years of subpar offensive line play, the Sooners have focused their recruiting efforts on bolstering this critical unit.
- Experienced Line Play: With several key linemen returning in 2025, Oklahoma will have a more experienced and physical offensive line. Improved blocking will create better running lanes and provide more time for the quarterback to make plays.
- Recruitment and Development: The Sooners have recruited some of the best offensive line prospects in the country, and those players will mature by 2025. Under the guidance of a strong position coach and offensive coordinator, the offensive line will be much more effective in both run blocking and pass protection.
5. Depth at Key Positions
Depth has always been a hallmark of Oklahoma football, and by 2025, this depth will allow the Sooners to compete at a higher level across all positions. Venables and his staff have worked hard to create a well-rounded roster that can compete against top teams in the Big 12 and nationally.
- Running Back Committee: Oklahoma has several talented running backs who will provide a balanced attack in 2025. With fresh legs and diverse styles, the Sooners will have the ability to rotate players and keep opposing defenses on their heels.
- Wide Receiver Talent: With key playmakers returning and a strong incoming class, the Sooners’ wide receiver corps will be explosive. Their ability to stretch the field will complement the running game and provide the quarterback with multiple weapons.
- Defensive Depth: As mentioned earlier, Oklahoma has made strides in improving their defense, and depth will be a huge advantage. The defensive line, linebacker corps, and secondary will all be deeper in 2025, allowing for greater rotation and fresher players on the field.
6. The Transition to the SEC
Oklahoma’s move to the SEC in 2025 will be a significant factor in the team’s future success. Though the competition will be tougher, the transition will ultimately help Oklahoma become a stronger program in the long run. The exposure and competition of playing in the SEC will only make the Sooners better prepared for the next level.
- Recruiting Impact: Playing in the SEC gives Oklahoma more visibility and a stronger recruiting edge. Being in the nation’s toughest conference will attract more top recruits who want to compete at the highest level.
- Improved Competition: The opportunity to compete against powerhouse programs like Alabama, Georgia, and LSU will push Oklahoma to elevate its game. The Sooners will learn from the best and build the toughness necessary to contend for championships in the SEC.
7. Strong Coaching Staff Continuity
While Venables’ transition to head coach has had some bumps, the Sooners are beginning to establish a cohesive coaching staff that will help the program succeed in 2025. The combination of veteran coaches and rising stars on the staff will allow for more effective player development and game planning.
- Coaching Development: Venables has surrounded himself with a talented coaching staff that understands the intricacies of both offense and defense. The continuity and ability of the coaching staff will ensure that Oklahoma’s players are well-coached and prepared for every challenge in 2025.
- Position Coaches: The position coaches, particularly those working with the offensive line and defensive backfield, have shown improvements in developing their players. With continued development, the 2025 season should see significant progress in these areas.
8. A Favorable Schedule
Oklahoma’s 2025 schedule will play a significant role in their success. As the Sooners look to get better, having a favorable schedule with a mixture of winnable games and tough challenges will give them the opportunity to build confidence throughout the season.
- Big 12 Showdowns: The Big 12, while competitive, still offers Oklahoma the chance to compete against teams they know well. Having a favorable conference slate will allow the Sooners to find their rhythm before facing SEC opponents.
- Non-Conference Challenges: Non-conference games in 2025 will test Oklahoma’s mettle but will also help them prepare for the grind of SEC play.