Oklahoma Sooners Face Off Against No. 13 Oklahoma State Cowboys in a High-Stakes Bedlam Rivalry
As the 2024 college football season enters its final stretch, the anticipation builds for one of the most exciting and fiercely contested rivalries in the sport. The Oklahoma Sooners, ranked No. 13 in the nation, will square off against their arch-rivals, the No. 13-ranked Oklahoma State Cowboys, in what promises to be another memorable edition of the “Bedlam” rivalry. This matchup not only has enormous implications for the Big 12 championship race, but also carries significant emotional weight as the Sooners and Cowboys battle for bragging rights in the state of Oklahoma.
Both teams enter this contest with momentum, but the stakes couldn’t be higher, with each team aiming to make a statement in the conference and position themselves for a shot at the prestigious College Football Playoff or a top-tier bowl game. As the rivalry reaches new heights this season, let’s dive into what fans can expect when these two storied programs clash on the field.
A Historic Rivalry: The Bedlam Series
The term “Bedlam” is synonymous with fierce competition, passionate fan bases, and unforgettable moments in Oklahoma sports. The Bedlam series between the Oklahoma Sooners and Oklahoma State Cowboys has been one of the longest-standing and most heated rivalries in college football. The first meeting between the two teams took place in 1904, and since then, the rivalry has grown into one of the most intense and emotional matchups in college athletics.
The Sooners, historically one of the most successful programs in college football history, have dominated much of the series. However, Oklahoma State has earned its fair share of victories over the years, and the Cowboys have made significant strides under current head coach Mike Gundy, especially in recent seasons. While the Sooners have enjoyed the lion’s share of success, including numerous conference championships and national titles, the Cowboys have regularly kept things competitive, ensuring that the Bedlam matchup is always a must-watch event for college football fans.
In recent years, Oklahoma State has closed the gap in terms of competitiveness, and the Cowboys’ victory in the 2021 edition of the rivalry—when they claimed a 37-33 victory over the Sooners—was seen as a statement win. This season’s Bedlam game takes on even more importance as the Sooners and Cowboys are both vying for dominance in the Big 12 before Oklahoma heads to the Southeastern Conference (SEC) in the near future.
The 2024 Season So Far: Oklahoma Sooners
The Oklahoma Sooners, led by head coach Brent Venables, have had a rollercoaster ride in 2024, but they remain one of the top teams in college football. Entering the Bedlam game with a No. 13 ranking, the Sooners have a well-balanced squad that has the potential to make a deep run in the College Football Playoff race. Their offense has been explosive at times, powered by an experienced quarterback and a dynamic group of skilled players.
Quarterback Dillon Gabriel has been a key player for the Sooners, having shown impressive growth under Venables’ system. Gabriel, a fifth-year senior, has had his share of challenges this season, but his leadership and ability to make plays with both his arm and his legs will be crucial against a tough Oklahoma State defense. Gabriel has thrown for over 3,000 yards and 25 touchdowns this season, showcasing his ability to lead the offense and come through in clutch moments.
The Sooners’ offense is also powered by a solid supporting cast. Running back Jovantae Barnes has been a breakout star, rushing for over 1,000 yards and playing a crucial role in establishing the ground game. The receiving corps, featuring standout players like Drake Stoops and Jalil Farooq, has been a reliable target for Gabriel, and the Sooners will need to rely on this group to stretch the field and keep the Cowboys’ defense on its toes.
Defensively, the Sooners have improved under Brent Venables, a former defensive coordinator at Clemson who is known for building strong, aggressive defenses. This season, Oklahoma has shown an ability to disrupt opposing offenses, with linebacker Danny Stutsman emerging as a leader on the field. Stutsman, who has tallied over 100 tackles this season, will be key in containing Oklahoma State’s potent offense. The Sooners’ defensive line, led by All-American candidate Ethan Downs, has been a force in the trenches, and they will need to pressure Oklahoma State’s quarterback to limit big plays.
The 2024 Season So Far: Oklahoma State Cowboys
On the other side of the rivalry, the Oklahoma State Cowboys come into this matchup ranked No. 13 and riding high after a series of impressive victories. Under head coach Mike Gundy, the Cowboys have consistently fielded a competitive squad, and this season has been no exception. The Cowboys’ offense has been one of the most explosive units in the Big 12, and much of that success can be attributed to their high-powered passing attack.
Quarterback Spencer Sanders, who is now in his final year with the program, has been the leader of the Cowboys’ offense. Known for his dual-threat ability, Sanders has racked up over 3,200 yards of total offense and has thrown 28 touchdowns this season. His ability to extend plays with his legs and make accurate throws under pressure has been a game-changer for Oklahoma State, and he will be the key to unlocking their offense in the Bedlam showdown. Sanders’ chemistry with his receivers, especially with standout wideout Braydon Johnson, will be crucial in stretching the field and creating mismatches against Oklahoma’s defense.
The Cowboys’ running game has also been potent, with Ollie Gordon leading the charge. Gordon, a powerful and elusive back, has gained over 1,300 yards on the ground this season and is a constant threat to break off long runs. His physicality and ability to grind out tough yards will be essential in keeping the Sooners’ defense honest and preventing them from focusing solely on Sanders’ passing game.
Defensively, Oklahoma State has improved drastically in 2024. The Cowboys boast a solid defensive line that can get pressure on the quarterback, and their secondary has been much improved, with cornerback Corey Black emerging as a leader. The defense’s ability to stop the run and pressure Dillon Gabriel will be pivotal in keeping Oklahoma’s offense off balance. Oklahoma State’s linebacking corps, led by senior defender Mason Cobb, has also been strong, and their ability to contain Gabriel’s mobility will be a major factor in determining the outcome of the game.
Key Matchups to Watch
- Dillon Gabriel vs. Spencer Sanders: The quarterback duel will be one of the most important aspects of the game. Gabriel has shown flashes of brilliance this season, but Sanders’ dual-threat ability and playmaking skills give Oklahoma State an edge in terms of unpredictability. Can Gabriel manage the game and avoid turnovers, or will Sanders find ways to exploit the Sooners’ defense?
- Oklahoma State’s Defensive Line vs. Oklahoma’s Offensive Line: Oklahoma State’s defense has been much improved in 2024, and their ability to pressure the quarterback and stop the run will be critical. The Sooners’ offensive line, which has had some ups and downs this season, will need to hold firm against Oklahoma State’s pass rush and create lanes for the running backs to get going.
- Running Backs: Both teams feature strong running backs who can change the game. Jovantae Barnes for Oklahoma and Ollie Gordon for Oklahoma State will be crucial in keeping the chains moving and dictating the tempo of the game. Their ability to wear down defenses and convert third downs will be critical to their team’s success.
- Turnovers: In a rivalry game like Bedlam, turnovers can often swing the momentum in a big way. Both teams have been prone to interceptions and fumbles at times this season, and whichever team can limit turnovers will have a distinct advantage.
The Big 12 Championship Picture
This matchup is not just about pride and tradition. The outcome of this game could have major implications for the Big 12 championship race and the College Football Playoff picture. With both teams in the top 15 of the rankings, the winner of this game could position themselves for a potential New Year’s Six bowl berth or even a shot at a playoff spot, depending on how the rest of the season unfolds.
The Oklahoma Sooners, with their potent offense and improving defense, have aspirations of making a deep run in the playoffs. The Cowboys, meanwhile, have proven to be a tough out for any opponent and are looking to prove that they can compete with the best. As the 2024 season winds down, this Bedlam rivalry will be a pivotal moment in shaping the future of both programs.
Conclusion
The 2024 Bedlam game between the Oklahoma Sooners and Oklahoma State Cowboys is shaping up to be one of the most exciting and competitive matchups in recent memory. With both teams boasting explosive offenses and stingy defenses, the game promises to be a hard-fought, high-stakes contest. Whether it’s Dillon Gabriel’s arm, Spencer Sanders’ legs, or the impact of the defenses, fans are in for an unforgettable spectacle. The rivalry, steeped in tradition and fierce competition, will undoubtedly deliver one of college football’s most anticipated games of the season.
As the teams take the field, both will know that they are not just playing for a win but for bragging rights, pride, and the opportunity to keep their championship aspirations alive. The 2024 edition of Bedlam is poised to be another unforgettable chapter in this storied rivalry.
