Oklahoma and No. 13 Texas A&M square off in a conference matchup.

As the 2025 college football season progresses, the excitement around the game between the Oklahoma Sooners and the No. 13 Texas A&M Aggies is palpable. This highly anticipated matchup between two powerhouse programs is one that promises to shape the landscape of the Big 12 and Southeastern Conference (SEC), despite Texas A&M having recently moved to the SEC. With both teams boasting a strong mix of talent, leadership, and a storied history, the game will likely have significant implications for the conference standings and the College Football Playoff race.

Oklahoma, traditionally one of the premier programs in college football, is looking to assert itself as a national contender once again after a few years of rebuilding. On the other hand, Texas A&M, ranked No. 13, comes into this matchup with high expectations and a strong roster that has the potential to challenge for a spot in the playoffs. With both teams desperate for a statement win, this game is set to be one of the most thrilling contests of the season.

Oklahoma Sooners: A Return to Glory

The Oklahoma Sooners have long been a force in college football. With a rich history that includes multiple national championships, a Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback (or two), and a string of dominant seasons, Oklahoma is always a team to watch. However, the past few seasons have been a period of transition, as the Sooners have worked to reestablish themselves as a true national contender.

After parting ways with head coach Lincoln Riley, who left for Southern California, Oklahoma turned to Brent Venables as their new head coach. Venables, a longtime defensive coordinator with a pedigree of success at Clemson, was brought in to restore Oklahoma’s defensive identity and help lead the program back to national prominence. The first few years under Venables’ leadership were marked by some growing pains, but the Sooners appear to be heading in the right direction in 2025.

With a talented roster led by quarterback Dillon Gabriel, a former UCF standout, Oklahoma’s offense is poised to make waves. Gabriel has the ability to stretch defenses with his arm, and his mobility gives the Sooners a versatile attack that can cause problems for opposing defenses. The Sooners will also lean on their dynamic running back room, including Marcus Major and Gavin Sawchuk, who provide a solid one-two punch in the backfield. Oklahoma’s offensive line, led by Andrew Raym, has improved steadily under Venables’ coaching staff, and that will be crucial in establishing a balanced attack.

The key for Oklahoma, however, will be the development of their defense. Venables’ reputation as a defensive guru has raised the bar for what the Sooners’ defense should be capable of, but the team is still adjusting to his style and schemes. Players like Ethan Downs and Danny Stutsman have been standout performers on the defensive line and at linebacker, respectively, but the Sooners need to be more consistent on defense if they want to compete with the top teams in the nation.

In this crucial matchup with Texas A&M, Oklahoma will need to put together a complete game. The offense must be efficient, but it’s the defense that will likely determine the outcome of the game. If the Sooners can limit Texas A&M’s explosive playmakers and get key stops when needed, they will give themselves a chance to pull off the upset.

Texas A&M Aggies: Championship Aspirations

Under head coach Jimbo Fisher, the Texas A&M Aggies have become a regular contender in the SEC. After years of success in the Big 12, Texas A&M made the jump to the SEC in 2012, and while the transition has been challenging at times, Fisher has guided the Aggies to sustained success in the nation’s toughest conference. Fisher’s ability to recruit at a high level has brought Texas A&M some of the most talented players in college football, and in 2025, the Aggies are positioned for another strong campaign.

Ranked No. 13 to start the season, Texas A&M enters this game with high aspirations, particularly as they look to challenge for a spot in the College Football Playoff. Much of the Aggies’ success in 2025 will depend on the play of their quarterback, Conner Weigman. After a strong freshman campaign, Weigman enters his sophomore season with even greater expectations. His arm strength, poise in the pocket, and decision-making ability make him one of the rising stars in college football. Weigman will be crucial to Texas A&M’s success, especially against a defense like Oklahoma’s that will look to apply pressure.

Supporting Weigman in the backfield will be Amari Daniels, a dynamic running back capable of breaking off big runs at any moment. Daniels’ ability to provide balance to the offense will allow Weigman to work through the passing game, and his presence will keep the Oklahoma defense on its heels. With playmakers like Evan Stewart and Aniah Smith at receiver, Texas A&M’s offense has the weapons to be potent.

On defense, the Aggies are loaded with talent. Fisher’s defense is known for being fast, aggressive, and opportunistic, and this season’s group has the potential to be one of the best in the nation. Players like Edgerrin Cooper at linebacker and Shemar Turner on the defensive line will need to be at their best in order to stifle Oklahoma’s offense. Texas A&M’s defensive line, in particular, will play a crucial role in limiting Oklahoma’s running game and putting pressure on Gabriel, who can be forced into mistakes when hurried.

Texas A&M’s ability to control the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball will be key in this matchup. If they can impose their will physically and limit Oklahoma’s big plays, they will put themselves in a strong position to win.

Key Matchup: Oklahoma’s Offensive Line vs. Texas A&M’s Defensive Line

One of the most important aspects of this game will be the battle in the trenches. Oklahoma’s offensive line, which has struggled at times in recent seasons, will need to step up against a Texas A&M defensive line that is known for its ability to disrupt opposing offenses. The Aggies have a deep rotation of pass rushers and run-stoppers, and their ability to get pressure on Dillon Gabriel could be the difference in the game.

If Oklahoma can establish the run and give Gabriel time to operate in the pocket, they will be able to move the ball efficiently. However, if the Aggies’ defensive line is able to break through and put pressure on Gabriel, it could lead to turnovers or stalled drives that allow Texas A&M to take control of the game.

Players to Watch

Dillon Gabriel (Oklahoma) Oklahoma’s quarterback, Dillon Gabriel, will be one of the most important players in this game. Gabriel’s ability to make accurate throws and manage the game will be key to Oklahoma’s success. If he can keep the Aggies’ defense off balance with a combination of short passes and deep throws, the Sooners will be in a good position to score. However, if Gabriel struggles under pressure, it could derail Oklahoma’s offensive game plan.

Conner Weigman (Texas A&M) Weigman, Texas A&M’s quarterback, is the engine that powers the Aggies’ offense. As a young but highly talented player, Weigman has all the tools to lead his team to victory in a game of this magnitude. His decision-making, poise under pressure, and ability to stretch the field will be crucial for the Aggies’ success. If Weigman has time to throw and gets into a rhythm, Oklahoma’s defense may struggle to contain him.

Edgerrin Cooper (Texas A&M) The leader of Texas A&M’s defense, Edgerrin Cooper, will be a key player in this game. Cooper has the ability to disrupt plays in the backfield, both as a pass rusher and as a tackler against the run. His ability to read the offense and react quickly will be pivotal in limiting Oklahoma’s offensive production. Cooper’s performance in this game could be the difference between a win and a loss for the Aggies.

What’s at Stake: Conference and National Implications

This game between Oklahoma and Texas A&M has major implications for both teams. For Oklahoma, a victory would solidify their status as a contender in the Big 12 and provide a huge boost to their national ranking. With a spot in the College Football Playoff potentially on the line, Oklahoma will be looking to prove they are back on track as a national power.

For Texas A&M, a win over a strong Big 12 opponent like Oklahoma would bolster their playoff hopes and keep them on track for a potential SEC Championship. With a deep roster and a championship-caliber defense, the Aggies are hoping to prove they belong among the nation’s elite teams.