Paul Finebaum Points to the X-Factor That Could Revive Major College Football Powerhouse

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Jaron Spor | Last updated Jun 27, 2025 2:00 PM ET

College football is entering a new era as it increasingly adopts a professional model.

The transfer portal functions similarly to free agency in the NFL and other sports, allowing players to move between teams more freely. Additionally, the introduction of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) agreements has enabled players to earn money based on their performance.

This has caused several teams to implement roles such as general managers and assistant general managers to help manage their programs. Additionally, teams have increased their scouting efforts to identify talented players who may one day enter the transfer portal.

During "The Paul Finebaum Show," SEC Network analyst Paul Finebaum highlighted one general manager who is crucial to revitalizing a major program.

"I think Jim Nagy is the key," Finebaum said. "Jim Nagy is one of the most powerful GMs in the country."

Nagy is off to a strong start with the Sooners, who have added several key players through the transfer portal. One notable addition is Jaydn Ott, a former standout from the California Golden Bears. In 2023, Ott rushed for 1,315 yards and scored a total of 14 touchdowns. However, his performance declined during the injury-plagued 2024 season, where he managed only 385 yards and five touchdowns.

Another crucial addition is quarterback John Mateer, who transferred from Washington State along with his offensive coordinator, Ben Arbuckle. Mateer had an impressive 2024 season, throwing for 3,139 yards, 29 touchdowns and seven interceptions, while also rushing for 826 yards and scoring 15 touchdowns.

Nagy has a talent for identifying players, including those who may not be nationally recognized. Previously, he served as the Executive Director of the Senior Bowl, where he was responsible for scouting talented players for NFL teams, including many unsung athletes from smaller colleges.

The Sooners will open their season against Illinois State on Aug. 30 at 6:00 p.m. ET.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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