No. 15 Oklahoma has found ways to win over the past two weeks, but with their SEC debut looming, the challenges are set to intensify. Despite securing victories, concerning signs are emerging as the Sooners prepare for tougher competition.
After a lackluster 16-12 win against Houston, Oklahoma nearly blew a 21-0 lead against Tulane, eventually pulling off a 34-19 victory thanks to a late defensive effort. However, if the Sooners can’t build on the best moments of that uneven performance, next week’s clash with No. 7 Tennessee could be a harsh introduction to SEC play.
Oklahoma has struggled in pass protection, entering the Tulane game ranked 89th nationally, allowing pressure on 30.6% of dropbacks, and 108th in sacks allowed, giving up six. Tulane added three more sacks, raising concerns ahead of a showdown with a Tennessee defense that wreaked havoc against NC State, tallying 13 tackles for loss and three sacks.
OU’s offensive line struggled to protect quarterback Jackson Arnold against Temple, Houston, and Tulane. Now, they face a formidable Tennessee front led by future NFL pick James Pearce Jr., presenting a massive challenge for the Sooners’ shaky protection unit. Even Temple, who is 0-3, managed to sack OU three times in Week 1—highlighting the Sooners’ vulnerability.
Oklahoma’s offensive struggles were particularly glaring in the second half against Tulane, where they went four consecutive scoreless drives. During this stretch, Arnold threw a rushed interception that was returned for a touchdown, narrowing the lead to 24-19 and giving Tulane multiple chances to take the lead.
TYLER GRUBBS SAID I'LL TAKE THAT!!!! #AmericanWay x @GreenWaveFB pic.twitter.com/yvBgxF8WSL
— The American (@American_Conf) September 14, 2024
Oklahoma’s defense ultimately saved the day late in the fourth quarter with a crucial interception and a turnover on downs, giving the Sooners excellent field position in Tulane territory. From there, the offense finally capitalized, scoring two much-needed insurance touchdowns to secure the win.
One bright spot for the Sooners was Jackson Arnold’s effectiveness as a runner, tallying 97 yards and two rushing touchdowns, including a 24-yard dash that extended OU’s lead to 31-19 with just over six minutes left. Arnold also broke off runs of 17 and 47 yards, showcasing his mobility.
However, relying on Arnold to carry the ball 10+ times per game, as he has in each of Oklahoma’s three wins, could be a dangerous strategy moving forward. If the Sooners had to rely on his legs against lesser opponents, how often will he be scrambling for safety against stronger SEC defenses in the coming months?
Oklahoma’s remaining schedule is daunting, with six of their next nine games against teams ranked in the top-16 nationally entering Week 3. Additionally, they face tough matchups at Auburn and against a scrappy South Carolina team.
While Oklahoma has managed to scrape by with timely defensive plays against weaker competition, success in the SEC will require much more support from an offensive line that has struggled to keep Arnold protected. The search for wins in this tougher conference must begin by solidifying that protection upfront.
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