Paul Finebaum Reveals Why One SEC Powerhouse Is Poised to Bounce Back

On "The Paul Finebaum Show," SEC Network analyst Paul Finebaum explained why he is upbeat on the Sooners.

"They had five or six receivers that got hurt, and [former quarterback] Jackson Arnold literally had nobody to throw it to," Finebaum said. "The fact that they could beat Alabama was remarkable. They got an experienced quarterback in Mateer. They got his coordinator. They really feel that with a lot of these receivers healthy, the dynamics changed."

Finebaum highlighted that Oklahoma's primary challenge this season lies in its schedule. He specifically pointed out the upcoming game against the Texas Longhorns, noting that if the Sooners do not improve, they may face a difficult season.

Last year, as Finebaum mentioned, Oklahoma struggled due to injuries affecting its receiving corps, but most of those injured players will not return this season. Nic Anderson, Jayden Gibson, Deion Burks, Jalil Farooq and Andrel Anthony were expected to be the top five receivers, but except for Burks, they essentially missed the entire season. 

Moreover, Anderson, Farooq and Anthony opted to transfer after the season concluded. The Sooners also lost Brenen Thompson and J.J. Hester to the transfer portal; they were ranked fifth and second in receiving yards on the team, respectively, last year.

As a result, the Sooners aggressively pursued new talent through the transfer portal to bolster their receiving options. Notable additions include JaVonnie Gibson, who recorded 1,215 yards and nine touchdowns for the Arkansas-Pine Bluff Golden Lions. However, he suffered an offseason injury but is expected back possibly before the season starts, and Jer'Michael Carter, who had 537 yards and three touchdowns for the McNeese State Cowboys.

The Sooners are optimistic that the revamped passing attack will lead to greater success in 2025.