Oklahoma Sooners get a bump in ESPN's updated power rankings

The Oklahoma Sooners moved to 3-0 in 2024 with another strong effort on the defensive side of the ball and an improved offensive performance from the week before.

Though Tulane pulled within five points on the Jackson Arnold interception returned for a touchdown, the Sooners were by and large in control of that game from start to finish.

When things got close, the Sooners took over.

Jackson Arnold had another efficient day throwing the ball but showed off his athleticism, speed, and ability to run the read-option to spark Oklahoma’s ground attack.

After the Sooners win, OU moved up to No. 15 in ESPN’s latest power rankings.

Seeing Arnold have some success with his legs is a plus for the Sooners. He finished with 97 rushing yards and two touchdowns and also passed for 169 yards and a touchdown. The real season (and SEC season) starts next week for Oklahoma when Tennessee and its high-powered offense travel to Norman. The Sooners will need their best defensive effort of the season. – Chris Low, ESPN

Facing a Tennessee Volunteers team currently No. 1 in the nation in points per game and No. 3 in the nation in points allowed per game, the Sooners will need their very best effort this Saturday night.

Tennessee is the best team that Oklahoma has seen by a lot in 2024. But on the flip side, the Sooners are the best team that the Vols have faced so far this season.

It’s a phenomenal matchup between two top 15 teams and has a chance to be one of the best games of the year.

: New No. 1 in this week’s SEC Power Rankings

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