No. 6 Tennessee is set to face off against No. 15 Oklahoma in a highly anticipated matchup for Week 4, marking a significant event in SEC history. This game serves as the SEC opener for both squads and holds several intriguing narratives that enhance the importance of this primetime showdown.
For Oklahoma, this will be their inaugural conference game as a member of the SEC. The Sooners are eager to make an impact on their new conference rivals, all while performing in front of what promises to be an enthusiastic home crowd during their fourth consecutive home game to start the season. A victory in this match is crucial, especially considering that Oklahoma must face three top-10 teams in the upcoming weeks away from the comfort of Oklahoma Memorial Stadium.
Tennessee, on the other hand, sees this game as a pivotal opportunity, beyond the established ties to head coach Josh Heupel. The Volunteers aim to secure their position among the elite in the SEC and assert themselves as genuine contenders for the College Football Playoff after a strong start to the season. Tennessee has dominated its first three games, winning by an average margin of 59.3 points and hasn’t allowed an offensive touchdown in four consecutive games, dating back to last season.
For those wanting to follow the action, here are the details for watching the game:
Date: Saturday, Sept. 21 | Time: 7:30 p.m. ET
Location: Gaylord Family – Oklahoma Memorial Stadium, Norman, Oklahoma
TV: ABC | Live stream: fubo (With a promotional offer of $49.99 for the first month)
Key storylines include the return of Josh Heupel to Norman for the first time as a head coach since being let go from his position as offensive coordinator in 2014. Heupel’s association with Oklahoma began in 1999 when he joined as a quarterback, leading the team to a national championship in 2000. His coaching career there was notable, culminating in positions such as quarterbacks coach and co-offensive coordinator.
Additionally, this matchup features a clash between two top quarterbacks from the 2023 recruiting class: Nico Iamaleava of Tennessee and Jackson Arnold of Oklahoma. Both quarterbacks are now leading their respective teams after their collegiate journeys took off in bowl games last year.
As for predictions, concerns loom for Tennessee as they will be playing away from home, and historically, they have struggled in big road games under Heupel. It will also be Iamaleava’s first start in a highly charged atmosphere. However, given Oklahoma’s recent struggles on offense, Tennessee’s strong defensive line may give them the edge. An early defensive battle could ensue, but Tennessee’s offense is expected to prevail. The favorite is Tennessee, predicted to win by a margin of seven points.