Oklahoma Football 2023 Regular Season Schedule: In-Depth Analysis and Predictions

Introduction

The University of Oklahoma Sooners, a perennial powerhouse in college football, is poised to embark on another thrilling season under the leadership of head coach Brent Venables. The 2023 campaign promises to be filled with exciting matchups and challenges, as the Sooners navigate a demanding regular season schedule. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into each game, examining the key factors, making predictions, and providing insights that will help you stay informed and engaged throughout the season.

2023 Oklahoma Football Schedule

September

• September 2 vs. Nebraska (Home)
• September 9 vs. Central Arkansas (Home)
• September 16 at Texas (Away)
• September 23 vs. TCU (Home)

October

• October 1 at Baylor (Away)
• October 7 vs. West Virginia (Away)
• October 14 (Bye Week)
• October 21 vs. Kansas (Home)
• October 28 at Iowa State (Away)

November

• November 4 vs. Texas Tech (Home)
• November 11 at Kansas State (Away)
• November 18 vs. Oklahoma State (Home)

Game-by-Game Analysis and Predictions

September 2 vs. Nebraska (Home)

Key Factors:

• Nebraska is entering its second season under head coach Matt Rhule, who has a history of rebuilding struggling programs.
• The Cornhuskers have a talented and experienced quarterback in Casey Thompson, who transferred from Texas.
• Oklahoma's defense will need to be prepared for Thompson's mobility and passing ability.

Prediction: Oklahoma wins 38-24

September 9 vs. Central Arkansas (Home)

Key Factors:

• Central Arkansas is an FCS team that won 10 games in 2022.
• The Sooners should be heavily favored in this game.
• Oklahoma's offense will have an opportunity to get in sync and build confidence.

Prediction: Oklahoma wins 56-10

September 16 at Texas (Away)

Key Factors:

• This is a rivalry game with plenty of history and bad blood.
• Texas is a rising team under head coach Steve Sarkisian and has a talented quarterback in Quinn Ewers.
• Oklahoma will need to play with discipline and avoid costly penalties on the road.

Prediction: Texas wins 31-27

September 23 vs. TCU (Home)

Key Factors:

• TCU is a fellow Big 12 contender that reached the College Football Playoff in 2022.
• The Horned Frogs have a dynamic offense led by quarterback Max Duggan and wide receiver Quentin Johnston.
• Oklahoma's secondary will be tested by TCU's passing attack.

Prediction: Oklahoma wins 35-31

FAQs about the Oklahoma Football Schedule

1. What is Oklahoma's toughest game on the schedule?

• Texas at Texas (September 16) is arguably Oklahoma's toughest game on the schedule. The Longhorns are a rising team with a lot of talent, and the game will be played in a hostile environment in Austin.

2. What is Oklahoma's most important game on the schedule?

• Oklahoma State at Oklahoma (November 18) is Oklahoma's most important game on the schedule. It is the annual Bedlam rivalry game, and the winner will have a significant advantage in the Big 12 title race.

3. What is the key to Oklahoma's success in 2023?

• Quarterback play is crucial for Oklahoma's success in 2023. The Sooners have two talented options in Dillon Gabriel and Davis Beville, and they will need to develop a consistent passing attack to complement their explosive running game.