Pete Thamel Names SEC Contender That Could Face Significant Growing Pains

The Oklahoma Sooners and Texas Longhorns are entering unfamiliar territory in the upcoming season as they have departed from the Big 12 and are now transitioning to the SEC.

The Longhorns are expected to be immediate contenders, not just in the SEC but nationally as well. On the other hand, there are still many uncertainties surrounding Oklahoma. The team will have a new starting quarterback, Jackson Arnold, who has only started one game. Additionally, the Sooners won't have any full-time starters returning on the offensive line.

Oklahoma made significant changes to its roster by adding five offensive linemen from the transfer portal. While these players have individual starting experience, they have not played together as a unit. It will be up to the offensive line coach, Bill Bedenbaugh, to get them ready for SEC play during the team's first three nonconference games before facing the Tennessee Volunteers at home.

ESPN's Pete Thamel revealed on the College GameDay Podcast that he believes Oklahoma will face significant challenges in 2024 due to its lack of experience at those two key areas.

"I just think the possibility of growing pains at Oklahoma are significant enough, I think if they end up somewhere in the 50s, I'm not going to be shocked," Thamel said. "Now look, maybe they get hot and go win at the Haunted Mansion, upset Texas, there's a path for everybody."

Thamel mentioned that he is still a little skeptical of Oklahoma. He said that the reality is that some big brands, like Oklahoma, with high expectations, may end up with a poor record at the end of the year.

So, Thamel believes the Sooners could have a long first season in the SEC.

Related: Paul Finebaum Names Biggest Differences Between Oklahoma And Texas