Oklahoma Sooners Football: 2023 Schedule, Results, and Analysis

Introduction

The Oklahoma Sooners, a perennial powerhouse in college football, are set to embark on their 2023 campaign with a daunting schedule. The Sooners will face several top-ranked opponents, both in and out of conference play. Led by head coach Brent Venables, Oklahoma will aim to reclaim their place among the nation's elite.

Schedule and Results

Analysis

The Sooners, coming off a disappointing 6-7 season, will have their work cut out for them in 2023. Their schedule features seven ranked opponents, including two games against top-five teams in Texas and TCU.

Despite the challenging schedule, the Sooners have a number of factors that could lead to a turnaround season. Quarterback Dillon Gabriel, a transfer from UCF, has shown promise in early camp and is expected to provide a dynamic playmaker on offense.

The Sooners' defense, which struggled in 2022, will need to improve significantly under the guidance of new defensive coordinator Ted Roof. The defense has the potential to be a strength with the return of several key players, including linebacker DaShaun White and safety Key Lawrence.

Key Matchups

Sept. 16 vs. Nebraska Cornhuskers: The Sooners will face their first major test of the season in Week 3 when they host the Nebraska Cornhuskers. The Cornhuskers, led by head coach Scott Frost, have been rebuilding in recent years but will present a tough challenge at home.

Sept. 23 at TCU Horned Frogs: This game is a potential trap game for the Sooners, who will travel to Fort Worth to face the TCU Horned Frogs. The Horned Frogs are coming off a 12-1 season and are expected to compete for the Big 12 championship.

Oct. 8 at Texas Longhorns: The Red River Rivalry is always one of the most anticipated games of the college football season. The Sooners will travel to Austin to face the Texas Longhorns in a game that will likely have huge implications in the Big 12 race.

Strategies for Success

Establish a strong running game: Oklahoma has a number of talented running backs, led by Eric Gray. The Sooners will need to be able to establish a consistent running game to open up the passing game and keep the defense honest.

Limit turnovers: The Sooners committed a nationally-leading 25 turnovers in 2022. Limiting turnovers will be crucial for the Sooners' success in 2023.

Improve defensive efficiency: The Sooners allowed 469 yards and 33 points per game in 2022. Improving defensive efficiency, particularly on third down and in the red zone, will be essential for the Sooners to compete for a Big 12 championship.

Benefits of Success

Increased revenue: A successful season for the Sooners would generate increased revenue from ticket sales, merchandise, and television contracts.

Improved recruiting: A successful season would help the Sooners attract top recruits, both in-state and out-of-state.

Increased national profile: A successful season would help the Sooners regain their national prominence and cement their status as one of the top programs in the country.

Conclusion

The Oklahoma Sooners have a challenging schedule in 2023, but they also have the potential to be a successful team. With a talented offense led by quarterback Dillon Gabriel and a defense that has the potential to improve, the Sooners could compete for a Big 12 championship and a spot in the College Football Playoff.