No. 6 Tennessee is set to visit No. 15 Oklahoma in a highly anticipated matchup in Week 4 that marks a significant moment in SEC history. This game serves as the conference opener for both teams, but it also carries additional significance.
This will be Oklahoma’s inaugural conference game as a member of the SEC. The Sooners are keen to make a strong impression on their new rivals in front of what is expected to be a passionate home crowd as they host their fourth consecutive game to kick off the season. With three matches against teams currently ranked in the top-10 later in the schedule, Oklahoma is eager to secure an early victory.
For Tennessee, this matchup represents a crucial opportunity to establish itself among the elite teams in the SEC and position itself as a contender for the College Football Playoff. The Vols have had an impressive start to the season, winning their first three games by an average margin of 59.3 points, including a dominant 51-10 victory over NC State. They have not allowed an offensive touchdown in their last four games, dating back to last year’s Citrus Bowl win over Iowa.
Fans can follow LIVE updates, highlights, and analysis throughout the Tennessee vs. Oklahoma game.
Details for the game are as follows:
Date: Saturday, September 21 | Time: 7:30 p.m. ET
Location: Gaylord Family – Oklahoma Memorial Stadium, Norman, Oklahoma
TV: ABC | Live stream: Fubo (Trial available)
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Key points for Tennessee vs. Oklahoma include:
– Josh Heupel’s Return: This will be Heupel’s first return to Norman in a professional role since he was dismissed as Oklahoma’s offensive coordinator in 2014. Heupel began his career at Oklahoma in 1999, leading the team to a national championship and earning numerous accolades during his time as a player.
– Coaching Connections: The matchup pits two former assistants of Bob Stoops against one another, as Heupel and Oklahoma head coach Brent Venables have deep ties from their time together at the university, sharing in the success of numerous winning seasons.
– Quarterback Showdown: The game features a showdown between two highly touted quarterbacks from the 2023 recruiting class, Nico Iamaleava of Tennessee and Jackson Arnold of Oklahoma. This game will mark the first time these promising quarterbacks meet on the field.
In terms of predictions, while there are concerns about Tennessee’s performance in high-pressure road games under Heupel, this matchup appears favorable for them. Oklahoma has struggled with its offensive line, while Tennessee boasts one of the nation’s top defensive lines. Both teams possess strong defenses, which could lead to a tightly contested game. However, Tennessee’s offense may find the edge needed to secure a victory in Norman. Predicted outcome: Tennessee to win by 7 points.