NORMAN — The Oklahoma Sooners made a strong impression in their season opener, overwhelming the UTEP Miners with a decisive 51-0 victory at Gaylord Family — Oklahoma Memorial Stadium. The game was a showcase for the Sooners' revamped offense, which emphasized a more aggressive rushing attack, a goal they had vocalized throughout the offseason.
The opening play of the game set the tone for the Sooners, who utilized a 12 personnel formation featuring two tight ends and one running back. This strategy paid off immediately as Colorado State transfer Lloyd Avant dashed for a 12-yard gain, leading the team to a total of 170 rushing yards by the end of the game. Avant was the standout performer on the ground, accumulating 79 yards on 15 carries, including a touchdown.
Oklahoma's defense also played a crucial role in the shutout, marking their first since a 44-0 win over Kent State last season. The Sooners scored on their first eight possessions, demonstrating their offensive efficiency. Quarterback John Mateer, in his second season with the team, completed 11 of 17 passes for 225 yards and three touchdowns, showcasing his growth and confidence in the pocket.
Freshman running back Jonathan Hatton Jr. also made a notable contribution, gaining 21 yards on three carries, including a 21-yard run that highlighted his potential. The tight ends, coached by new position coach Jason Witten, were instrumental in the game plan, with Rocky Beers making an immediate impact. Beers, the brother of former Sooners women's basketball star Raegan Beers, scored a touchdown on his first reception, impressively hurdling a UTEP defender on his way to the end zone.
While the Sooners' offense shone brightly, they did face some challenges, particularly with injuries to key offensive linemen. Starting center Jake Maikkula was sidelined due to an injury sustained during a scrimmage, and Ryan Fodje, expected to fill in, also missed the game due to a practice injury. This situation forced true freshman Noah Best to start at center, making him the first OU true freshman to do so in a season opener since 1992.
Despite these setbacks, the Sooners maintained a positive atmosphere surrounding their offense. Isaiah Sategna III added to the excitement with a spectacular 88-yard punt return for a touchdown, marking the seventh-longest punt return in Oklahoma history. Sategna also caught four passes for 76 yards and another touchdown, proving to be a key player in the offensive scheme.
Defensively, the Sooners were bolstered by the presence of Arkansas transfer Danny Saili, who made his debut after receiving a temporary restraining order that allowed him to play. Saili contributed to the defensive line depth, which was considered thinner than in previous seasons. Additionally, PJ Adebawore stepped up in the absence of Danny Okoye, recording three tackles and the team's first sack of the season.
The Sooners now turn their attention to a challenging matchup against Michigan, scheduled for September 12 at 11 a.m. CT. As they prepare for this marquee road trip, the confidence gained from their dominant win over UTEP will be crucial for their momentum moving forward in the season.
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