Oklahoma Sooners face playoff skepticism as ESPN’s early 2026 predictions leave them outside the 12-team field. Can Brent Venables adapt his approach and push OU back into contention? John Williams and Jay Smith uncover how changes in strength and conditioning—rumored departures, fresher practices, and recruitment of tougher, more physical players—could be key to surviving a grueling SEC schedule.

2026’s top 100 players list sparks debate: David Stone, Kip Lewis, Taylor Wein, and Isaiah Sategna earn recognition, but are stars like Jaden Jackson and Courtland Guillory underrated? Analysis compares Taylor Wein’s production to national standouts, revealing overlooked impact. The duo breaks down the Sooners’ path—highlighting depth concerns, SEC matchups against Georgia, Texas, and Texas A&M, and explaining why OU might need to go 4-1 against elite opponents to make the playoff cut. Will Oklahoma turn doubters into believers?

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