As the No. 21 Oklahoma Sooners prepare for their Week 5 matchup against Auburn at Jordan-Hare Stadium, all eyes are on the team as they seek to bounce back from their first loss of the season. After a tough defeat against Tennessee, the Sooners are hitting the road for the first time this year, facing a challenging SEC opponent in Auburn. The game will be pivotal in determining Oklahoma’s trajectory as they look to remain in the hunt for postseason glory.
Head coach Brent Venables has made a significant decision heading into this matchup, opting to start true freshman quarterback Michael Hawkins Jr. after his impressive performance in relief of Jackson Arnold last weekend. Hawkins will be one of three key players to watch on Saturday, alongside running back Jovantae Barnes and linebacker Kip Lewis. Here’s a deeper look at why these players will be crucial in Oklahoma’s efforts to secure a win against Auburn.
All eyes will be on Michael Hawkins Jr. as he makes his first career start under center for the Sooners. The true freshman was thrown into action against Tennessee after Jackson Arnold struggled in the first half. Despite the difficult situation, Hawkins showed poise and promise, leading Oklahoma on two late scoring drives, including a touchdown pass to Jovantae Barnes.
Hawkins’ ability to handle the pressure of his first road game in the hostile environment of Jordan-Hare Stadium will be a major storyline. Auburn, despite its struggles this season, will have a loud and energetic crowd, eager to rattle the young quarterback. Hawkins has demonstrated flashes of potential, but this game will test his maturity, decision-making, and ability to lead the Sooners offense.
With Venables naming him the starter moving forward, Hawkins has a golden opportunity to seize control of the offense and solidify his role as the team’s future quarterback. His performance on Saturday could set the tone for the rest of the season.
Running back Jovantae Barnes has been a consistent weapon for the Sooners this season, and his role becomes even more important with a young quarterback under center. Barnes has been one of the go-to options in Oklahoma’s rushing attack, and his ability to find the end zone has been key for the Sooners in tight situations.
In last week’s game against Tennessee, Barnes caught a short touchdown pass from Hawkins, showcasing his versatility as both a runner and receiver. With Hawkins still adjusting to the starting quarterback role, Barnes will need to provide stability in the run game, helping to alleviate pressure and control the pace of the game.
Auburn’s defense has struggled this season, particularly against the run, which opens the door for Barnes to have a big day. His ability to exploit gaps in Auburn’s defensive front and keep the Sooners offense moving will be critical to Oklahoma’s success.
On the defensive side of the ball, linebacker Kip Lewis is a player to watch. As a key member of the Oklahoma defense, Lewis has the task of leading the charge against an Auburn offense that has had its own struggles this season. Lewis’ speed, tackling ability, and leadership will be essential in keeping Auburn’s offense in check, especially in a hostile SEC environment.
Auburn’s offense has been inconsistent, but playing on their home turf could give them the boost they need to push Oklahoma. It will be up to Lewis and the rest of the Sooners defense to maintain discipline, limit big plays, and force Auburn into uncomfortable situations.
Lewis has already proven himself as a solid contributor this season, but this game presents a unique challenge. If he can help shut down Auburn’s rushing attack and force them into passing situations, it could be a long day for the Tigers’ offense.
For Oklahoma, this game against Auburn represents more than just another regular-season contest. After their first loss of the season, the Sooners need to prove they can rebound and maintain their standing in the national rankings. Additionally, this is their first road test of the year, and it comes in one of the toughest environments in college football.
The development of Michael Hawkins Jr., the continued impact of Jovantae Barnes, and the leadership of Kip Lewis will be crucial as the Sooners look to get back on track and keep their goals for the season intact. With the SEC being as competitive as ever, every win is important, and a victory against Auburn could serve as a springboard for the rest of Oklahoma’s season.
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