Sooners Wire Staff Predictions for every Oklahoma game in 2026

Oklahoma Sooners Begin 2026 Football Season with Predictions from Sooners Wire Staff

The Sooners are set to kick off the 2026 college football season in six days, coming off a 10-win season and a College Football Playoff appearance under head coach Brent Venables. This offseason, OU made significant additions to improve their chances of a playoff return. The Sooners are considered one of the best teams in college football heading into the season.

The Sooners are predicted to start the season with victories against UTEP, Michigan, and New Mexico. Against UTEP, the Miners' poor 2025 season and weak defense are viewed as an easy opportunity for the Sooners to showcase their offensive firepower. The Michigan game is expected to be more competitive, with the Wolverines ushering in a new era under head coach Kyle Whittingham. A victory in Norman against New Mexico is predicted due to Oklahoma's talent and physicality.

In Week 5, the Sooners will face Georgia in Athens, Ga., marking their first trip to the state. Historically, Georgia has been difficult to beat at home, but the Sooners' talent and physicality are expected to overwhelm the Bulldogs. The bye week will feature Texas and the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, with the Sooners expected to again prove their mettle against a formidable opponent.

The Kentucky Wildcats visit Norman in Week 6, with the Sooners predicted to outplay their opponent thanks to their defensive talent. Mississippi State in Starkville presents a closer matchup but is still expected to favor the Sooners. South Carolina, ranked higher than anticipated, will face the Sooners in Week 8, but the prediction still leans to a Sooners' victory.

The season concludes with a Florida Gators matchup in Gainesville, with the Sooners still favored to win.