NORMAN — OU is a touchdown underdog in Saturday’s SEC opener against Tennessee (6:30 p.m., ABC).
It’s a rarity for the Sooners, who haven’t been this big of an underdog at home in any game since way back in 1998 vs. Texas Tech, according to ESPN Stats and Info.
A ranked Sooners team hasn’t been more than four-point underdogs at home since at least 1978.
So how will the game turn out?
Here’s a look at The Oklahoman’s staff predictions for the game:
More: What is Josh Heupel’s legacy with OU football? Tennessee coach reignited ‘Sooner Magic’
Tennessee 31, OU 27
LIVING UP TO THE HEUP
Sooners hang with Vols until late but Josh Heupel’s offense too much in the end as Tennessee pulls out the victory. OU’s defense stands tall at times but Nico Iamaleava and the Vols’ offense proves to be too much.
More: Jackson Arnold vs. Nico Iamaleava: How OU football, Tennessee QBs match up in Week 4 game
Tennessee 34, OU 20
PEARCE THE ARMOR
Tennessee spoils OU’s SEC debut. The Sooners’ offensive line struggles to contain James Pearce Jr., who records two sacks.
Tennessee 27, OU 21
VOLUNTEER HOURS
Tennessee spoils OU’s SEC debut. Josh Heupel gets win in return to Norman.
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Tennessee 37, OU 34
ORANGE CRUSH
Nico Iamaleava jumps toward the top of the list of Heisman favorites after a flawless, four-TD night spoils the Sooners’ debut in the SEC.
Tennessee 38, OU 35
MEANS MORE
This is why OU joined the SEC, for these types of matchups being played at home. The Sooners’ crowd steps it up, making this a reasonably tough road game for Tennessee. Jackson Arnold looks the part and the Sooners keep it close but Tennessee’s offense rolls.
More: Which OU football players are listed on SEC injury report for Tennessee game?
Tennessee 34, OU 23
ROCKY ROAD
Sooners get rough welcome to the SEC as Josh Heupel and the Volunteers again put up big offensive numbers to continue hot start.
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Eric Moody, ESPN Staff WriterDec 23, 2024, 02:06 PM ETCloseFantasy football, basketball and sports betting writer for ESPN Former manager at a Fortune 100 finan
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