Oklahoma Names Michael Hawkins Starting Quarterback

Oklahoma's head coach Brent Venables has announced a significant change in the quarterback position, naming true freshman Michael Hawkins Jr. as the starter for the upcoming game against Auburn. This decision comes after Jackson Arnold's poor performance in a 25-15 loss to Tennessee, where he turned the ball over three times in the first half, leading to his benching. Hawkins, who completed 11 of 18 passes for 132 yards and a touchdown in relief, sparked the Sooners in the second half, prompting Venables to open the competition for the starting role. The move is seen as a response to Arnold's inconsistency, despite his prior status as a highly touted recruit. Oklahoma, now ranked 21st in the AP Poll, looks to rebound from their first loss of the season against Auburn, which they will face this Saturday. Venables expressed hope for Arnold's future, emphasizing that one challenging game does not define a player's career.