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The Oklahoma Sooners are entering Week 3 with a sense of urgency after a 1-1 start to the season. Their loss to Michigan in Ann Arbor was not just a defeat; it was a concerning performance, particularly on offense, where they managed only 10 points and struggled to sustain drives. Even with a strong defense, that output is insufficient.
Now, a formidable New Mexico team visits Norman, aiming to test Oklahoma's resilience. The Sooners have little margin for error. This game may not definitively answer whether Oklahoma is a College Football Playoff contender or the team that struggled last week, but a win could build momentum as they prepare for SEC play.
Can the Sooners rediscover their offensive rhythm against the Lobos and return to the win column? The Sooners Wire staff offers their predictions.
Staff Predictions
Good Enough? Oklahoma faltered in its first real test of the season, and this game is not as easy as it may appear. New Mexico is one of the best non-power conference teams OU has faced in recent memory. If the Sooners' offense sputters again, confidence will be low heading into conference play. The Lobos are well-coached and will not back down; they are coming to Norman to compete. While the OU offense will be under scrutiny, Oklahoma's overall talent advantage should be enough for a home win. Oklahoma 23, New Mexico 7 – Aaron Gelvin, Contributor
Just Win This is one of those games where you win comfortably but don't feel great about it. Oklahoma 31, New Mexico 13 – Jaron Spor, Contributor
Big-Time Run Game Since 2000, the Sooners are 41-5 in regular-season games following a loss in the same year. I think they add another win here. The offense is under scrutiny after last week, which should motivate them. Given comments from Brent Venables and Ben Arbuckle, expect a heavier emphasis on running the ball. I anticipate a bigger day on the ground from Lloyd Avant and John Mateer, complementing the defense. On paper, Oklahoma is superior in every facet, which should be too much for New Mexico, even though they are a veteran-led, championship-level team in their conference. Oklahoma 31, New Mexico 10 – James D. Jackson, Contributor
Offensive Resurgence It's hard to imagine the Sooners having another poor offensive outing or the defense tackling as poorly as they did against Michigan. This week, expect a return to the offense we saw against UTEP. A run-heavy attack led by Lloyd Avant and Jonathan Hatton, with John Mateer more comfortable and efficient throwing, will lead to an improved performance. Elijah Thomas has a breakout game just in time for the trip to Athens to face Georgia. Oklahoma 38, New Mexico 6 – John Williams, Lead Writer
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Originally reported by yahoo.