Picks and Predictions for the Sooners

The 2025 season is going to be a hot one, and you don’t want to miss out on any choice wagers. Our team of handicappers have put together some of the best picks on the Oklahoma Sooners that you can use to start betting!

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Oklahoma Sooners History

The Oklahoma Sooners football program began in 1895, playing its first game against a local high school team. Under the leadership of coach Bennie Owen in the early 20th century, the team started to gain prominence, securing multiple conference championships. However, it was under coach Bud Wilkinson in the 1950s that the Sooners truly became a national powerhouse, achieving a record 47-game winning streak and securing three national championships during his tenure.

The 1970s and 1980s saw continued success under coach Barry Switzer, with the team clinching additional national titles and producing numerous All-American players. The program maintained its competitive edge into the 2000s, highlighted by a national championship win in 2000 under coach Bob Stoops. Throughout its history, Oklahoma has been known for its high-powered offenses and stout defenses, consistently ranking among the top programs in college football.​

In recent years, the Sooners have continued to be a formidable force, regularly contending for conference titles and making appearances in major bowl games. The program’s ability to recruit top talent and adapt to the evolving landscape of college football has kept it relevant and competitive. As the team transitions into the SEC, fans and bettors alike are eager to see how the Sooners will fare against new competition.​

Oklahoma Sooners Timeline

• 1895: Oklahoma plays its first football game.
• 1905: Bennie Owen becomes head coach, leading the team to multiple conference titles.
• 1950: Under Bud Wilkinson, the Sooners win their first national championship.
• 1953-1957: Oklahoma achieves a record 47-game winning streak.
• 1974 & 1975: Barry Switzer leads the team to back-to-back national championships.
• 1985: Sooners secure another national title under Switzer.
• 2000: Bob Stoops guides Oklahoma to a national championship victory.
• 2017: Quarterback Baker Mayfield wins the Heisman Trophy.
• 2018: Kyler Murray becomes the second consecutive Oklahoma QB to win the Heisman.
• 2021: Lincoln Riley departs; Brent Venables is named head coach.
• 2024: Oklahoma transitions to the SEC conference.
• 2025: Team undergoes roster changes aiming for a competitive edge in the SEC.
  

Oklahoma Sooners Stats 

The 2024 season was a challenging one for the Sooners, finishing with a 6-7 record. Offensively, the team averaged 21.1 points per game, ranking 110th nationally, and managed 303.2 yards per game, placing them at 126th. 

The rushing attack averaged 136.1 yards per game, while the passing game contributed 167.1 yards per contest. Defensively, the Sooners allowed 22.2 points per game, ranking 27th, and conceded 323.9 total yards per game, placing them 19th nationally. Notably, the defense was strong against the run, allowing just 3.1 yards per rush, ranking 8th in the nation. ​ Upgrade to pro-level insights—lock in our premium picks today and tip the scales in your favor.

Oklahoma Sooners Roster for 2025

The 2025 roster features a mix of returning talent and new additions. Quarterback John Mateer, a transfer from Washington State, is expected to lead the offense. The backfield is bolstered by the addition of Jaydn Ott, a standout running back from Cal, who led the Pac-12 in rushing yards in 2023. Wide receiver Jayden Gibson, known for his size and catching ability, is anticipated to be a key target in the passing game. On defense, linebacker Danny Stutsman returns after leading the team in tackles in 2024, and safety Billy Bowman Jr. is expected to anchor the secondary. The team also welcomes five-star offensive tackle Michael Fasusi, adding depth to the offensive line.​

Oklahoma Sooners Injury Report

Injuries have impacted the Sooners’ preparations for the 2025 season. Notably, wide receiver Javonnie Gibson underwent surgery for a broken leg, and several other players are expected to miss spring practices due to various injuries.

Before you risk your money betting on Sooner’s Players, make sure you read up on the injury  report:

Oklahoma Sooners Betting Outlook and Trends

As the Oklahoma Sooners gear up for their first full season in the SEC, bettors should expect a few notable trends to emerge in 2025. The transition into a tougher conference, combined with personnel changes and a defense-heavy identity, offers several opportunities for sharp wagers. Below are three key trends that could shape the Sooners’ betting profile this season:

Transition to SEC Play

Oklahoma’s entry into the SEC marks a new era—one defined by weekly matchups against more physical and defensively disciplined teams. The Sooners may experience a period of adjustment, particularly on offense, where timing and tempo can be disrupted by elite SEC defensive lines. 

Bettors should be cautious when backing Oklahoma in early-season matchups, especially when they’re favored against seasoned SEC programs. Until the team proves it can execute consistently against this higher level of competition, there may be value in betting against inflated spreads.

Defensive Strength Could Favor the Under

Despite offensive struggles in 2024, Oklahoma’s defense showed major improvement—finishing top 20 nationally in total defense and top 10 in rushing defense. This defensive identity is likely to remain intact with core returners like Danny Stutsman and Billy Bowman Jr. anchoring the unit. In games where the Sooners face methodical or run-heavy SEC offenses, totals could trend lower than expected. 

Bettors should keep a close eye on early-season totals and be ready to pounce on inflated over/under lines, particularly when public perception still leans toward Oklahoma being an “offense-first” team.

Improved Offensive Balance with New Playmakers

The addition of Jaydn Ott in the backfield and Michael Fasusi on the offensive line could provide Oklahoma with the kind of offensive balance it lacked last year. With a more reliable ground game, the Sooners may lean on time-of-possession strategies that reduce shootouts and help the defense stay fresh. 

If the run game succeeds in extending drives, this could lead to stronger second-half performances and better results against the spread, particularly in games where Oklahoma is listed as a small favorite or underdog.

Betting Trends from Last Season

The 2024 season was a mixed bag for the Oklahoma Sooners, and that unpredictability created both challenges and opportunities for bettors. Below are three key betting trends from last season that shaped how the Sooners were viewed at the sportsbooks:

• Inconsistency Against the Spread (ATS): Oklahoma finished the season just 5-8 ATS, struggling to cover in matchups where they were favored by more than a touchdown. Their offensive woes led to several closer-than-expected games, even against inferior opponents. Bettors who faded the Sooners in high-spread situations were often rewarded. This trend highlighted the dangers of backing Oklahoma blindly based on historical dominance or name recognition.
  
• Strong Under Team in Low-Scoring Games: With an improved defense and a stagnant offense, the Sooners were one of the better “Under” teams in 2024, especially in matchups where the total was set above 48. They went under the total in 7 of their 13 games. The inability to finish drives combined with a defense that held opponents to modest scoring made low-scoring games a common theme throughout the season.
  
• Struggles on the Road: Oklahoma went just 2-4 straight up in road games and failed to cover in four of those matchups. In hostile environments, the offense struggled with consistency, often leading to stalled drives and missed red zone opportunities. Bettors who took the home underdog against Oklahoma often found value, particularly when public money inflated the Sooners’ line based on reputation.

Key Players for Betting on the Oklahoma Sooners

These five players are expected to have a major impact on the field in 2025, and savvy bettors should keep an eye on them when considering player props or team performance wagers. Track the hottest handicappers live on our leaderboard.

Jaydn Ott – Running Back

A high-profile transfer from Cal, Jaydn Ott brings explosiveness and versatility to the Oklahoma backfield. He rushed for over 1,300 yards in 2023 and could be the focal point of the Sooners’ offensive resurgence. Ott’s ability to break big plays and contribute in the passing game makes him a strong candidate for rushing yard and touchdown props. Early in the season, sportsbooks may undervalue his role in this new offense, offering value for bettors willing to back him.

Danny Stutsman – Linebacker

The heart and soul of Oklahoma’s defense, Stutsman led the team in tackles last season and is a preseason All-SEC selection. He’s a high-motor player who excels in stopping the run and dropping back into coverage. Bettors can factor in his presence when evaluating Oklahoma’s defense against run-heavy teams—he’s a key reason they held opponents to just 3.1 yards per carry in 2024. Look for team total unders on opponents who rely on ground production.

Jayden Gibson – Wide Receiver

A 6’5” red-zone threat with strong hands, Gibson is poised to become Oklahoma’s top receiving option in 2025. He showed flashes last season but lacked consistent quarterback play. With more stability under center, he could be a breakout player in terms of receptions and touchdown props. He’s especially dangerous in mismatches near the goal line, making him a strong candidate for first touchdown scorer bets.

Billy Bowman Jr. – Safety

One of the most athletic players on Oklahoma’s defense, Bowman is a ballhawk with great instincts. He finished 2024 with 6 interceptions and has the ability to shift momentum with game-changing plays. While he doesn’t often appear in prop markets, his presence helps support bets like the under or team total unders for opposing QBs, especially those prone to turnovers.

John Mateer – Quarterback

A transfer from Washington State, Mateer is a dual-threat quarterback looking to lead Oklahoma into the SEC era. While unproven in Norman, he has shown the ability to extend plays with his legs and deliver accurate throws on the move. Bettors should keep an eye on his rushing props early in the season, particularly if the offensive line struggles with pass protection. He’s also likely to contribute to team overs once the offense clicks.

Oklahoma Sooners Summary

The Oklahoma Sooners continue to be one of the most recognizable programs in college football, but name value alone doesn’t win bets. With a revamped roster, a transition into the SEC, and a defense that’s trending upward, this is a team bettors need to analyze from all angles—not just history or hype. The 2024 season showed us where the Sooners struggle (offensive consistency, road play) and where they shine (run defense, individual star power). By tracking evolving betting trends and key player performances, you’ll be better equipped to spot value throughout the 2025 season.

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