Oklahoma Sooners open 2025 Season wiht Special Teams Focus in Warmups
NORMAN, OK – August 30, 2025 – The Oklahoma Sooners are preparing to kick off their highly-anticipated 2025 football season against the Illinois State Redbirds at Gaylord Family Oklahoma Memorial Stadium. Initial observations from pre-game warmups indicate a notable focus on special teams, with running backs Jaydn Ott and Taylor Tatum both participating in punt return drills.
This season marks the debut of offensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle and quarterback John Mateer as thay unveil their new offensive system. Fans are beginning to fill the stadium as the Sooners fine-tune preparations. The game represents a fresh start for Oklahoma following last season, and a triumphant opening will be crucial for building momentum as they navigate a challenging schedule.
At 4:06 p.m. Central Time,Ott and Tatum were observed fielding punts. Tatum experienced a dropped catch during the drills, though he continued to participate in warmups. The remainder of the offense and defense had not yet taken the field as of that time.
Warmups began at 3:45 p.m. Central Time with the Sooners’ special teams unit. Kickoff is scheduled for approximately one hour later. Arbuckle and Mateer will be closely watched as they showcase their collaborative efforts for the first time in a live game habitat.
