Sooners Shake Up Quarterback Depth Chart Ahead of Pivotal Auburn Clash

The University of Oklahoma football team is making a significant change to its quarterback depth chart ahead of a crucial matchup against Auburn University. True freshman Michael Hawkins Jr. has been named the starting quarterback for the 18th-ranked Sooners, replacing the previously named starter, Jackson Arnold, who struggled in the team's recent loss to the University of Tennessee.

Sooners Seek Offensive Spark as They Head to the Plains

Hawkins Earns Starting Nod After Impressive Relief Appearance

The decision to start Hawkins comes after the young signal-caller impressed in his relief appearance against Tennessee. When he entered the game to replace Arnold, Hawkins completed 11 of his 18 passes for 132 yards and a touchdown, showcasing his playmaking ability and poise under pressure. Head coach Brent Venables was particularly impressed with Hawkins' mobility, noting that he was able to make plays happen with his legs when the Sooners' offensive line failed to block the edge pressure.Venables praised Hawkins' athleticism and potential, stating, "He's a tremendous athlete. There were several times there where we had edge pressure that we didn't block, and he got outside of it. So he has some playmaking ability, and he can hurt you with his legs." This dynamic skill set has earned Hawkins the opportunity to lead the Sooners' offense as they prepare to take on the Auburn Tigers.

Arnold Struggles in First Start, Turning the Ball Over Three Times

The decision to bench Arnold comes after the highly touted freshman struggled in his first career start against Tennessee. Arnold, who was expected to be the Sooners' starting quarterback this season, turned the ball over three times in the first half, contributing to the team's 25-15 loss to the Volunteers.Venables and the Sooners' coaching staff have clearly seen enough from Arnold's performance to warrant a change at the quarterback position. The decision to turn to Hawkins suggests that the coaching staff believes the true freshman gives the team the best chance to win as they head into a crucial matchup against a formidable SEC opponent.

Sooners Seek to Bounce Back Against Auburn

The Sooners' trip to Auburn University this weekend represents a significant opportunity for the team to rebound from their disappointing loss to Tennessee. The Tigers, who are also coming off a tough defeat, will be looking to defend their home turf and secure a marquee non-conference victory.For the Sooners, the quarterback change to Hawkins could provide the spark the offense needs to get back on track. The true freshman's athleticism and playmaking ability could present a new challenge for the Auburn defense, forcing them to account for the quarterback's running ability in addition to the Sooners' passing attack.As the Sooners prepare for the clash in the Plains, the focus will be on Hawkins' ability to lead the team and provide the necessary offensive production to secure a crucial road victory. With the stakes high and the pressure on, the Sooners will be looking to their new starting quarterback to rise to the occasion and help the team bounce back from their early-season setback.