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Oklahoma Sooners vs Temple Owls Picks and Predictions
The Oklahoma Sooners look to avoid a letdown after a statement win over Michigan when they travel to Philadelphia to face the Temple Owls. Oklahoma jumped to No. 13 in the rankings and is off to a 2-0 start, while Temple has surprised under new coach K.C. Keeler with an explosive 2-0 beginning to the season.
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Oklahoma: Keeping Momentum Alive
Coach Brent Venables stressed the importance of avoiding complacency after his team faded late last year. Quarterback John Mateer has been the catalyst, throwing for 662 yards and four touchdowns while adding 98 rushing yards and three scores. Against Michigan, Mateer totaled 344 yards of offense and three TDs, showing why the Sooners put the ball in his hands in key moments.
Oklahoma’s defense also showed progress by limiting Michigan’s offense to 213 yards outside of a long touchdown run. Venables knows execution on the road will be critical as the Sooners try to show they can consistently play at a playoff-contender level.
Oklahoma Snapshot
| Category | Stat | Key Note |
|---|---|---|
| Record | 2-0 | Win vs Michigan 24-13 |
| QB John Mateer | 662 pass yds, 7 total TDs | Dual-threat weapon |
| Offensive Style | Up-tempo, balanced | New system under Arbuckle |
| Ranking | No. 13 | College Football Playoff chase |
Temple: Fast Start Under Keeler
The Owls have outscored opponents 97-17 through two weeks, building confidence under new coach K.C. Keeler. Quarterback Evan Simon has been lights-out, completing 77.1 percent of his passes for nine touchdowns without an interception. His national-best passing efficiency rating (263.28) reflects a system that is clicking early.
Temple’s challenge will be elevating execution against a physical Oklahoma defense. Keeler has emphasized that details matter, as plays that worked against Howard and UMass won’t hold up against the Sooners’ speed and size. The Owls’ offensive line will need to hold up to give Simon time to operate.
Temple Snapshot
| Category | Stat | Key Note |
|---|---|---|
| Record | 2-0 | Wins vs Howard, UMass |
| QB Evan Simon | 77.1% comp, 9 TD, 0 INT | National-best efficiency |
| Offensive Output | 97 pts in 2 games | Fast start |
| Head Coach | K.C. Keeler | First season at Temple |
Key Matchups to Watch
The duel between John Mateer’s running ability and Temple’s defensive front is central. If the Owls can pressure Mateer and force him into quick decisions, they have a chance to disrupt Oklahoma’s rhythm. On the flip side, Temple’s Evan Simon faces his first true test against a defense with speed at every level.
Both teams are undefeated, but the gap in talent and depth between the Sooners and the Owls is significant. Temple’s precision passing game will need to be nearly flawless to keep pace.
Series History and Context
This will be the fourth meeting between the programs. Oklahoma leads the series 2-1, though Temple’s lone win came back in 1942. Last season, the Sooners routed the Owls 51-3 in Norman. With the game moving to Philadelphia, Temple hopes to keep it competitive in front of its home crowd.
Picks and Predictions
Oklahoma is the clear favorite, but Temple’s early offensive success makes them an interesting storyline. Mateer’s dual-threat ability gives Oklahoma the upper hand, while Simon’s efficiency will be tested against the best defense he has faced this season.
Projection: Oklahoma 38, Temple 17. The Sooners’ speed and depth should wear down Temple over four quarters. Bettors can find the latest college football odds and check expert analysis at the NCAAF picks hub. For expanded betting strategies, the NFL Expert Guide is also available.
