Oklahoma announces date change for Week 1 matchup vs. UTEP
By Ethan Stone
Published:
Oklahoma football announced on Monday that the Sooners’ Week 1 matchup against UTEP has been moved up one day to Friday, September 4. Kickoff for the matchup is now set for 7 p.m. CT and is set to be streamed on SEC Network+.
Oklahoma AD Roger Denny said the following of the Sooners’ move to Friday night, via a press release from Oklahoma athletics on Monday.
“Moving our home opener against UTEP to Friday night presents a unique opportunity to showcase Oklahoma Football,” Denny said. “The game will be streamed digitally, which allows us to be more intentional about selecting a date and kickoff time. Historically, early-season games in Oklahoma can present significant heat challenges, and a Friday night kickoff provides a more comfortable environment for our student-athletes, fans and game-day staff.”
“It also allows our fans to enjoy an electric atmosphere in Norman while making the most of the remainder of Labor Day weekend. We’re excited to welcome Sooner Nation back to Owen Field for a rare Friday night game under the lights.”
According to the release, Oklahoma has played just 6 regular season contests on Friday evening, all of which were wins for the Sooners, and 17 on Friday in general. The only Friday night game in OU history was a 51-3 win over Temple a few years ago.
The Sooners look to improve off a 10-3 season in 2025 with a healthy John Mateer under center and what should be a dominant defensive line. Can the Sooners make it back to the College Football Playoff in 2026?
Ethan Stone is a Saturday Down South News Editor and an advocate for the return of the Seattle Supersonics.
