The Oklahoma Sooners didn’t kick off their debut SEC season the way many had hoped after their promising 3-0 start. Their first SEC conference game was at home, but they faltered badly against a tough Tennessee Volunteers team, leaving fans and players frustrated.
Surprisingly, Oklahoma’s defense played outstanding football, showcasing a level that not only fits in the SEC but could also contend as one of the best defenses in the nation. However, injuries have plagued the defensive unit, their biggest ongoing issue. Despite the defensive heroics, the offense failed to capitalize, leaving the defense in bad situations and unable to finish strong when the defense created opportunities.
In a controversial move, head coach Brent Venables made a critical change at quarterback that has sparked debate among fans and analysts. Earlier in the season, Venables mentioned that both Jackson Arnold and freshman Michael Hawkins would see game action. On Saturday, Venables followed through on that promise, benching Arnold after a rough performance and inserting Hawkins into the game.
“We felt like we needed to make a change there,” Venables explained after the game. “Felt Mike (Hawkins) could give us a spark, and he did. We are going to find out who the best guy is to get us to [win] number four.”
Venables on the switch at QB: “Felt like we needed to make a change there… Felt Mike could give us a spark and he did…” #Sooners
— George Stoia III (@GeorgeStoia) September 22, 2024
While Arnold certainly struggled, it wasn’t entirely his fault. The offensive line was consistently pushed around, wide receivers failed to create separation, and the running game lacked execution—when there were gaps to exploit. Still, Arnold’s performance left much to be desired.
Venables: “I felt like our first interception we just threw it up there… And then the throw behind the line of scrimmage, that’s not even an option there… It’s a take all the way.” #Sooners
— George Stoia III (@GeorgeStoia) September 22, 2024
“I felt like the first interception we just threw it up there,” Venables said. “And then the throw behind the line of scrimmage, that’s not even an option there… It’s a take all the way.”
Oklahoma’s offensive woes began early and showed no signs of improvement with Arnold at the helm. Venables noted that there wasn’t enough evidence that the offense would “be just fine” if Arnold remained in the game, leading to the eventual switch.
Hawkins, the true freshman, entered the game and provided the spark Venables had hoped for. Though he made some mistakes, it was his first taste of real competition, and he showed flashes of promise. Hawkins finished the game with 132 passing yards, completing 11 of 18 attempts, and threw a touchdown pass. He also nearly scored a rushing touchdown, diving at the goal line in an acrobatic attempt.
Despite the loss, Hawkins’ energy and playmaking ability gave the Sooners something to build on. Venables’ decision, while controversial, may have laid the foundation for the quarterback position going forward. Hawkins’ performance in this game has raised questions about whether he might be the best option moving forward, especially as Oklahoma looks to turn the tide in their SEC campaign.
As Venables continues to evaluate his team, the quarterback decision will remain under the microscope. While Arnold has the talent, Hawkins’ performance against Tennessee could make him the frontrunner to lead the Sooners offense in the coming weeks. One thing is for sure: the Sooners will need to solidify their quarterback position if they hope to bounce back in their new SEC environment.
