The Sooners aim to secure bowl eligibility against their former Big 8 rivals in Columbia, MO.
Oklahoma’s last non-conference game helped build momentum before facing their final three Southeastern Conference opponents. They defeated Maine 59-14 on Saturday, managing to avoid rain and significant injuries—an ideal scenario when playing against FCS competition.
Running back Jovantae Barnes continued his strong performance, rushing for 203 yards and three touchdowns on 18 carries. He will be a key player for Oklahoma as they clash with Missouri at 6:45 p.m. Saturday on SEC Network.
In the game against Maine, Barnes became the first Sooner to rush for over 100 yards this season, while receiver J.J. Hester also surpassed the 100-yard mark in receiving. Hester connected with quarterback Jackson Arnold for a 90-yard touchdown during a scramble play, marking a timely big day for him.
This weekend’s game in Columbia is particularly special for Hester, as he began his college career at Missouri before transferring to Oklahoma. Another strong performance could boost Arnold in his second road start. After finding his rhythm against Ole Miss, Arnold completed 15 of 21 passes for 224 yards and two touchdowns against Maine, along with rushing for 45 yards and a touchdown.
On the defensive side, OU rebounded from a shaky start to hold Maine to 251 yards, ending their turnover drought. Hester had the only defensive takeaway against Ole Miss, but safety Robert Spears-Jennings forced a fumble in the third quarter, and freshman Reggie Powers recorded an interception in the fourth, though it was nullified by a penalty.
Hester isn’t the only player with connections to both teams. Missouri wide receiver Theo Wease and offensive lineman Cayden Green both began their careers at Oklahoma. Wease is in his second season with the Tigers, while Green is navigating his first year in Columbia following a controversial transfer.
Missouri hopes to have quarterback Brady Cook available for the game; otherwise, they may rely on Drew Pyne to lead the offense. The Tigers, who were idle last week, fell out of the AP Top 25 following a 34-0 loss to No. 11 Alabama.
A victory for OU would mark their sixth win of the season, securing bowl eligibility after a rocky start in the SEC.
How to Watch Oklahoma vs. Missouri:
– Location: Faurot Field, Columbia, MO
– Date: Nov. 9
– Time: 6:45 p.m.
– Channel: SEC Network
– TV Broadcast Crew: TBA
– Radio Broadcast: 107.7 FM The Franchise
– Weather Forecast: High of 62 degrees with a 70% chance of rain.
