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OU football has reached the middle of the 2026 season with the same major weakness that limited Oklahoma a year ago: an unreliable rushing attack. Despite an extensive offseason effort to improve the ground game, the Sooners are averaging only 2.9 yards per attempt through five games, tied with Stanford for the lowest mark in the Football Bowl Subdivision.
Oklahoma’s Critical Rushing Problem Remains
The Sooners entered the offseason with a clear objective. Oklahoma needed to build a dependable rushing complement for quarterback John Mateer, whose passing ability helped guide the team to the College Football Playoff last season. Instead, the offense has become even more dependent on the quarterback and its passing game.
According to ESPN Research, 68.5% of Oklahoma’s total yardage has come through the air in 2026, ranking among the highest percentages nationally. The Sooners have also failed to record more than 100 rushing yards against a Power 4 opponent this season, an alarming sign for a team competing in the physical SEC.
The disappointing results are particularly striking because Oklahoma invested heavily in the position group. The program hired veteran assistant Deland McCullough to coach the running backs and added Colorado State transfer Lloyd Avant, along with four-star freshman Jonathan Hatton Jr.
Transfer Additions Have Not Delivered Enough
Avant has been the most productive member of the backfield, rushing for 236 yards and two touchdowns on 52 carries. However, the Sooners have not received enough consistency from Hatton, Tory Blaylock or Xavier Robinson. Their limited production has placed additional pressure on Mateer to create plays with his arm and legs.
Oklahoma also added transfer tight ends Rocky Beers and Hayden Hansen, plus four offensive linemen through the transfer portal. The additions were designed to improve blocking and create better running lanes. So far, however, the changes have not translated into a more effective rushing attack.
The offensive line has been heavily affected by injuries and lineup changes. Former five-star tackle Michael Fasusi has missed time, while guards Heath Ozaeta and Eddy Pierre-Louis have also dealt with injuries. The constant movement has made it difficult for the Sooners to establish the physical identity they expected when the season began.
Inconsistent Blocking Puts More Pressure on John Mateer
Oklahoma’s offensive struggles cannot be blamed entirely on the running backs. The Sooners have produced only 141 rushing yards before contact, the fewest in the SEC, according to ESPN Research. That figure suggests opposing defenders are regularly meeting ball carriers near or behind the line of scrimmage.
Head coach Brent Venables recently described the offensive line as “incredibly inconsistent,” and the statistics support that assessment. Without reliable blocking, Oklahoma has struggled to sustain drives, control the clock and protect its quarterback from carrying too much of the offense.
- Oklahoma averages 2.9 yards per rushing attempt.
- The Sooners have not exceeded 100 rushing yards against a Power 4 opponent.
- Lloyd Avant leads the backfield with 236 yards and two touchdowns.
- Oklahoma has relied on the passing game for 68.5% of its total yardage.
Mateer remains one of the team’s most dangerous playmakers, but the offense becomes easier to defend when opponents can focus on stopping him. A functional rushing attack would create balance, open play-action opportunities and reduce the number of difficult third downs the quarterback must handle.
Playoff Stakes Grow for the Sooners
Oklahoma’s rushing issues could become increasingly costly as the SEC schedule intensifies. The Sooners reached the playoff last season despite a modest ground game, but repeating that achievement will be more difficult if the offense continues to produce at the bottom of the national rankings.
The program still has time to adjust. Oklahoma could simplify its blocking schemes, settle on a consistent offensive line combination or increase the workload for its most effective runners. But unless the Sooners find answers quickly, their biggest offseason priority may remain their biggest weakness during the 2026 campaign.
Frequently Asked Questions About OU Football
What is Oklahoma’s biggest issue in 2026?
The Sooners’ most serious problem is their rushing attack. Oklahoma is averaging just 2.9 yards per carry, tied for the lowest figure in the FBS.
Who leads Oklahoma’s rushing attack?
Transfer running back Lloyd Avant leads the Sooners with 236 rushing yards and two touchdowns through five games.
Why has Oklahoma struggled to run the ball?
Inconsistent offensive-line play, injuries and limited production from several running backs have prevented Oklahoma from creating reliable running lanes.
How important is John Mateer to Oklahoma’s offense?
Mateer is extremely important because Oklahoma has relied on the passing game for 68.5% of its total yardage. A stronger rushing attack would reduce that burden.
