SoonerScoop Game Predictions: Temple at OU
One last look at the OU opener. We’re as ready as you are, as ready as head coach Brent Venables. Let’s go.
Temple at OU
When: 6 p.m.
TV: ESPN
Betting: Oklahoma (-42.5), Over/Under: 57.5
Josh McCuistion: A Dominant Defensive Line
We all know I tend to focus on the other side of the line of scrimmage but with all the injuries and other juggling, I’m not sure we’re going to get a real feel for the offensive line this week. That being said, the defensive line should have a lot of chances to pin their ears back on some third and long and we can all get a feel for what that pass rush could present. I’m not saying that Temple will be the best line of resistance OU is going to see but the Sooners should dominate, if they don’t, it’s a concern.
Beyond the defensive line I also want to see the skill talent that Oklahoma has amassed. Sure we’re not going to see Nic Anderson but the potential of seeing Deion Burks in a real game and the return of Andrel Anthony? Come on, that’s exciting and I’d guess there’s a few plays that have been people mesmerized by what could be.
Finally, can Seth Littrell find a way to truly put a potentially strong tight end duo – Bauer Sharp and Jake Roberts – to work and create some security for Jackson Arnold.
As for the game, this is one the Sooners figure to have put to bed before halftime and I’m guessing we’ll get a chance to see a load of young talent where, once again I’ll be focused on the defensive line and the pairing of David Stone and Danny Okoye.
Oklahoma 51
Temple 6
Bob Przybylo: Reintroduce yourself, Mr. Barnes
By 6:30, all OU fans will want to have breathe a sigh of relief and just have fun watching the expected blowout. So if it’s going to be as smooth as we all think, it’ll be about watching OU more than what Temple brings to the show.
And for OU? You’re going to want to see strong cohesion and strong production with the offensive and defensive line. Like, if you can’t dominate on a night as Friday, then you begin to wonder what the meat of the schedule could bring.
Quarterback Jackson Arnold should be able to cruise along and get that first win as a starter under his belt. Then let’s see the running backs.
Specifically, let’s see Jovantae Barnes. Physically, mentally in such a better spot compared to where he was in 2023, let Barnes have some fun. It’s like a reward for being able to battle through everything.
Barnes and Gavin Sawchuk both find the end zone for OU. The defense, led by R Mason Thomas, creates three turnovers. You get an idea of who might be some of the playmakers to be on the watch for defensively and that list grows and grows.
Everyone stays healthy, and we all enjoy watching games Saturday.
OU 56, Temple 7.
Eddie Radosevich: Football is back, Alumni go home happy
Let me be the first to congratulate you on surviving the offseason. We made it. It’s here. The long awaited move to the Southeastern Conference is in the rearview mirror. While conference play is near there’s a lot to learn about the Oklahoma program over the next few weeks. There’s value in showing up and taking care of business against inferior opponents. There’s confidence to be gained by a talented- yet inexperienced- offense. Will Oklahoma truly take *that next step* defensively. This will be my 14th season covering Oklahoma football with SoonerScoop and on paper it might be the most talented defense I’ve covered. How real is the depth we’ve been talking about for the last month of the preseason?
There’s not going to be a lot to complain about on Friday night. Football is back. Jackson Arnold throws for four touchdowns in the first half, including a pair of 60+ yard throws to Brenen Thompson. David Stone collects his first career sack. Billy Bowman collects his first interception of the year. Peyton Bowen returns a punt for a touchdown. Alumni are happy. Fans are happy.
Oklahoma 56, Temple 10.
George Stoia: Time for Arnold to set the tone
For me, I want to see how Jackson Arnold looks after that Alamo Bowl game. I know the Temple game won’t really tell us much about Arnold. But I do think it can set the tone for the season if he goes out there and dominates.
I want see him command the offense and execute at a high level. No turnovers and few incompletions. Hit the big plays, showing off his arm and legs. I think it’s important for him to instill some confidence. That starts with an impressive performance Friday night.
I also want to see what this offensive line looks like. Who is rotating where? And will they dominate up front like they should? Again, I’m not sure how much we will actually learn from the Temple game. But OU needs to take care of business just like last year against Arkansas State.
OU 59, Temple 0.
