July 15, 2026, 9:08 a.m. CT
The Oklahoma Sooners enter the 2026 season coming off their first College Football Playoff appearance since 2019. Despite that breakthrough, oddsmakers remain skeptical about Oklahoma’s chances heading into the 2026 season. FanDuel Sportsbook set Oklahoma’s win total at 7.5 despite the Sooners returning a significant portion of their production from last season. Much of that skepticism likely comes from the fact that, despite making the playoff, Oklahoma was not viewed as a dominant team throughout the season. The “Hard to Kill” mantra existed for a reason, as the Sooners built their success by consistently finding ways to win close, physical games. However, On3’s J.D.
PicKell believes the national conversation surrounding Oklahoma is focused on the wrong things. He believes that the focus should be on the talent Oklahoma is bringing back rather than the narrow margins of victory from last season. “I think the conversation on Oklahoma and the college football public is going the wrong way,” PicKell said. “All I hear is the over/under 7.5 wins out there in Vegas. I hear how fortunate they were to make the playoff last year and all the skepticism around John Mateer.
I’m like, I think we’re looking at this wrong. Oklahoma, from what I have gathered, feels like they might have their best 11 on the defensive side of the football…
I think the national narrative on them is way out to lunch.”
Oklahoma’s 2025 season proved the Sooners can compete in the SEC, but the national perception still appears to be focused on how they won rather than the fact that they won. With quarterback John Mateer returning, a loaded defense led by Brent Venables and a roster that ranks among the best in the country in returning production, Oklahoma has the pieces to exceed expectations. The Sooners will face one of the toughest schedules in college football, but if the defense takes another step and the offense improves, the 7.5-win projection could look very different by the end of the season.
Contact/Follow us @SoonersWire on X (formerly known as Twitter), and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Oklahoma news, notes, and opinions. You can also follow Jaron on X @jaronspor .
