{"id":1074,"date":"2025-09-18T22:57:42","date_gmt":"2025-09-18T22:57:42","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/podcasts\/?p=1074"},"modified":"2025-09-18T22:57:42","modified_gmt":"2025-09-18T22:57:42","slug":"big-12-sec-breakdown-bill-haisten-talks-oklahoma-pigskin","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/podcasts\/big-12-sec-breakdown-bill-haisten-talks-oklahoma-pigskin\/","title":{"rendered":"Big 12\/SEC Breakdown: Bill Haisten Talks Oklahoma Pigskin"},"content":{"rendered":"

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\nThe Big 12\/SEC Breakdown<\/em><\/a> welcomed longtime Tulsa World columnist Bill Haisten to break down the state of college football in Oklahoma. With both the Sooners and Cowboys in the spotlight for very different reasons, Haisten shared sharp insights with Tyler Jones and Thomas Bridges<\/a> on where things stand.<\/p>\n

Oklahoma Shows SEC Readiness<\/h2>\n

The Sooners face Auburn in their first SEC matchup, and Haisten believes Brent Venables\u2019 squad is more than prepared. He praised Oklahoma\u2019s defense, calling it \u201cviolent, physical, and ready for the SEC,\u201d while quarterback John Mateer has unexpectedly vaulted into Heisman contention. The one lingering question? OU\u2019s ability to run the ball consistently. \u201cIf they can hit 160 yards a game on the ground, they\u2019ll be a complete team,\u201d Haisten said.<\/p>\n

Jackson Arnold\u2019s Pressure at Auburn<\/h2>\n

On the other sideline, Auburn\u2019s Jackson Arnold returns to Norman, adding a dramatic storyline. Haisten warned the young quarterback might feel pressure to play hero against OU\u2019s defense: \u201cHe\u2019ll want to shock the world, but that can lead to mistakes.\u201d The matchup sets the stage for a crucial early test of both programs\u2019 SEC credentials.<\/p>\n

Oklahoma State at a Crossroads<\/h2>\n

The conversation then shifted to Stillwater, where Oklahoma State is reeling after a blowout loss to Oregon and years of decline. Haisten pointed to soft recruiting, shaky offensive line play, and Mike Gundy\u2019s strained relationship with OSU leadership as major concerns. \u201cThis feels like Gundy\u2019s final season,\u201d he said, suggesting the longtime coach may soon walk away rather than be pushed out.<\/p>\n

Haisten added that OSU\u2019s donor base appears hesitant to invest heavily until a coaching change is made. Without clear leadership, the Cowboys\u2019 future looks murky compared to their in-state rivals.<\/p>\n

As OU looks playoff-ready, Oklahoma State faces existential questions about its direction. One thing\u2019s certain: football in Oklahoma is at a pivotal turning point.
\nListen to “Big 12\/SEC Breakdown: Bill Haisten Talks Sooner Revival” on Spreaker.<\/a>
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