Oklahoma Sooners defensive lineman R Mason Thomas. Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images

Oklahoma defense sets program record in huge win

By Jay Berry | Last updated Sep 21, 2025 10:06 AM ET

The Gaylord Family Memorial Stadium crowd erupted as R Mason Thomas slammed former Sooner Jackson Arnold into the turf for a sack to seal No. 11 Oklahoma's win over No. 22 Auburn Saturday night.

In addition to sealing the big win, the sack also set a program record as the Sooners' tenth sack of the game.

It was a huge moment for Brent Venables, who entered the season under intense pressure. While there's still plenty of football to be played and room for improvement, the Sooners’ defense delivered a near-perfect performance, pushing Oklahoma to a 4-0 record and a 1-0 start in the SEC.

It was sweet revenge for the Sooners. Arnold, once an OU fan favorite, transferred amid rumors of discord, and was greeted by boos upon his return. But Venables' revamped defensive line, powered by transfers and aggressive play calling, turned the script into a nightmare.

Taylor Wein, David Stone, and Gracen Halton led the charge, racking up seven sacks by halftime, holding Auburn to minus-2 rushing yards. Auburn's offensive line, praised for protecting Arnold and his dual-threat abilities, collapsed under the pressure.

For Venables, this victory is a huge boost. Entering 2025, the pressure was immense after two losing seasons in his first three seasons at Oklahoma and an offense ranked 97th in scoring last year.

The defensive blueprint Venables crafted in the offseason paid off in full and Oklahoma delivered the performance it needed. Auburn, now 3-1, heads home with its hopes of a "fresh start" for Arnold buried under a sea of crimson.

Boomer Sooner rings louder today. The hot seat? For now, extinguished. But in the SEC, survival means continuing to win. Venables’ next mission is clear: Keep sacking, keep fighting, keep winning.

Jay Berry

Jay is a former offensive lineman with experience as both a player and a coach, which includes college football experience. He spent time at the NAIA level and played in a National minor league. He co-hosts The Pick 6 space on X and covers the CFL and college football on YouTube

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