Who is Michael Hawkins Jr.? Getting to know the Oklahoma Sooners backup quarterback before his first start of 2025

Oklahoma Sooners backup quarterback Michael Hawkins Jr. to start vs. Kent State

Against the Auburn Tigers, Mateer injured his hand and played three quarters with it that way. Despite a broken throwing hand, Mateer managed to complete his last 11 passes for the win. Now, Hawkins is hoping he can get some wins under his belt, something that didn't happen too often for him in 2024.

Hawkins, who is now No. 3 on Oklahoma's offense after being No. 9 last season, is a quarterback with a ton of potential. Last year, he took over when the Sooners benched Jackson Arnold against the Tennessee Volunteers, and pretty much started the rest of the season. Hawkins played in seven games, threw three touchdowns and two interceptions, had 783 passing yards, 204 rushing yards, and a rushing touchdown.

Sure, those numbers don't seem like anything crazy, but Hawkins played in a terrible scheme, with terrible play-calling, all while his offensive line almost never had the same unit on the field week to week. Oh, and his best six wide receivers were injured for most of his time starting. So, there is a lot of blame to go around, and Hawkins shouldn't have the majority of it, for sure.

Hawkins made plays every now and then last year that show he has the potential to be a star in the SEC. However, he must put it all together. Now, against Kent State, he has his chance. In high school, Hawkins was a four-star recruit by most recruiting sites. He chose OU over schools like the Alabama Crimson Tide and the Georgia Bulldogs. So, we know the kid has the potential, but can he be consistent and put it together?

He has already made appearances this year, as he played against the Temple Owls a few weeks ago, and pretty much just ran the ball. He was one of three passing for five yards, and ran the ball six times for 25 yards. Now he has a decent offensive line around him, some good weapons, and a good play-caller. So, who is Michael Hawkins Jr.? We should find that out within the next few weeks.

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