Trystan Haynes reacts to first career start against Texas
Trystan Haynes says starting against Texas was special as an Oklahoma native who grew up watching the rivalry.
The Oklahoma Sooners are grappling with a wave of injuries in the 2026 college football season. Notable absences include cornerback Eli Bowen, who missed last weekend's game against the No. 15 Kentucky Wildcats after suffering an injury in practice. Bowen, a three-year starter from Oklahoma, was replaced by sophomore Trystan Haynes, who had never started a game before.
Haynes entered the match with only three career tackles but delivered a strong performance. He started the match with a long touchdown catch from star receiver Cam Coleman and finished with seven tackles and one pass deflection. Haynes expressed the significance of the experience as an Oklahoma native, stating it was different and exciting to run out of the tunnel as a starter for his first career game.
His performance in the Red River Rivalry provided Oklahoma with a positive sign amid their injury challenges, highlighting the importance of depth as they navigate the demanding weeks ahead.
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