Preseason predictions for Oklahoma University and Oklahoma State University football are seeing mixed results four games into the 2026 season, according to a report published October 4. While Oklahoma State appears to be emerging as a Big 12 contender, Oklahoma is struggling with significant gaps between its offense and defense.
For the Oklahoma Sooners, predictions regarding a 9-3 season and a College Football Playoff berth face low probability. The team currently ranks eighth nationally in total defense but 123rd in total offense. While Isaiah Sategna III is on pace for 804 receiving yards, he remains the most explosive player on an offense described as having a low bar. Additionally, the prediction that John Mateer would lead the team in rushing yards is unlikely, as Lloyd Avant leads with 164 yards, while Mateer averages 19 rushing yards per game.
Oklahoma State's preseason outlook is significantly more positive. Despite a Week 1 loss to Tulsa, the Cowboys are viewed as potential Big 12 contenders. Quarterback Drew Mestemaker leads the Big 12 in passing yards per game with 318 and is tied for the conference lead in touchdown passes with 11. Furthermore, Caleb Hawkins and Wyatt Young are performing near the top of the conference, with Hawkins averaging 110 rushing yards per game and Young averaging 103 receiving yards per game.
The Oklahoma State schedule includes matchups against Houston and Texas Tech, while home games against UCF, Colorado, and Kansas are considered automatic wins. The report notes that neither BYU nor Utah is on the Cowboys' current slate. Meanwhile, the Oklahoma Sooners' matchup against Texas A&M was characterized by former Aggie Alex Caruso as a game that neither team is in a good spot to win.
The current football season is approximately one third complete. Both Oklahoma and Oklahoma State are scheduled to be off this weekend.
