Two SEC powerhouses collide as No. 6 Tennessee travels to face No. 15 Oklahoma in Norman, OK.
Both teams are looking to make a big statement in their conference opener, but the Sooners have some extra motivation as this marks their first SEC game. Expect fireworks as both teams bring plenty of talent to the field in what should be one of Week 4’s most anticipated matchups.
This matchup isn’t just about rankings — no, it’s about history and new beginnings.
Oklahoma is playing its first SEC game and would love to start its tenure with a win. Playing at home for the fourth straight time, the Sooners are set to welcome a fierce challenge from a Tennessee team that has yet to truly be tested this season.
Tennessee comes in red-hot. No, they’re smoking hot. They dominated their first three games with a staggering average margin of victory of 59.3 points. They crushed NC State 51-10 in their most recent outing, and their defense hasn’t allowed a touchdown in four games dating back to last season.
This test on the road, though, will be the real measuring stick for how legitimate the Vols are as College Football Playoff contenders.
Both teams will see familiar faces on the sidelines, as Josh Heupel returns to Norman for the first time since being let go as offensive coordinator in 2014. He’s up against Brent Venables, another former Stoops assistant, in a battle of two coaching minds who know each other well from their time at Oklahoma.
Tennessee is currently listed as a 7-point favorite (-107), and it’s clear why bookmakers lean that way despite this being a road game for the Vols.
Oklahoma's offense, led by freshman QB Jackson Arnold, has struggled to find consistency. Tennessee, with defensive line dominance, might make life difficult for the Sooners’ O-line, which has shown vulnerabilities early in the season.
The total points over/under is around 55.5, which means that while these are two high-profile teams, the oddsmakers expect a bit of a slugfest early on, given both teams’ defensive strengths.
Nico Iamaleava will be making his first start in a truly hostile environment.
He has performed well so far but playing under the pressure of a roaring Norman crowd is a different challenge altogether. However, Tennessee’s offense has punted just twice this season, showing how efficient they can be. If Iamaleava handles the moment, the Vols' deep receiving corps and balanced rushing attack should be able to get rolling.
On the defensive side of the ball, Tennessee boasts one of the most dominant front sevens in the country. They’ll need to put pressure on Arnold, who’s talented but still gaining his footing as the starter for Oklahoma. The Vols’ ability to create turnovers and disrupt Oklahoma’s offense will likely dictate the flow of the game.
Oklahoma has shown flashes of brilliance this season but hasn't been able to maintain offensive momentum.
A shaky offensive line doesn’t bode well against the relentless pressure Tennessee is expected to bring. Arnold will need to protect the ball and avoid making costly mistakes.
On defense, Oklahoma will be tasked with slowing down a Tennessee attack that can strike quickly and often.
Venables' defensive schemes will need to be sharp to keep Iamaleava in check. But even with solid defensive play, it’s hard to envision Oklahoma consistently moving the ball and putting up enough points to win.
This game might start off slow, with both defenses flexing their muscles, but eventually, Tennessee’s offense will break through. Oklahoma’s home-field advantage will keep them in the game early, but the mismatch up front, combined with their offensive inconsistency, will prove too much to overcome.
The pick here is Tennessee -7. Their defensive dominance and offensive firepower make them the stronger team, even in a tough environment.
The total could go under, given the defensive prowess on both sides, but if Tennessee’s offense hits its stride, we might see a late surge of points. Either way, the Vols should walk away with the win.
BettorsInsider Prediction: Tennessee 31, Oklahoma 21