According to a college football expert, Oklahoma’s offense will see a major improvement in 2025, driven by coaching changes and important players.

As we look ahead to the 2025 season, college football experts are increasingly optimistic about the future of the University of Oklahoma’s offense. Historically known for its high-powered and dynamic offenses, the Sooners have found themselves in a period of transition, dealing with coaching changes, quarterback uncertainties, and adjustments to a shifting college football landscape. However, experts believe that Oklahoma’s offense is on the verge of a major resurgence in 2025, thanks to a combination of key players stepping into leadership roles and strategic coaching changes that promise to elevate the team’s overall performance.

A significant reason for this optimism is the leadership of head coach Brent Venables, combined with offensive coordinator Jeff Lebby, who has a proven track record of building explosive, up-tempo offenses. Together, they are creating a framework that could take the Sooners back to their former glory as a dominant offensive force in college football. The key to Oklahoma’s improvement, however, will come from the development of key players, effective play-calling, and an overall balance between the passing and running games. Experts are excited about the potential that exists within the program, and the 2025 season could be the year that Oklahoma finally gets back to the offensive excellence that has long defined the program.

Quarterback Play: John Mateer’s Development is Crucial

The most significant area of improvement for Oklahoma’s offense in 2025 will likely come from the play of John Mateer, the highly touted young quarterback who has been a fan favorite since he arrived on campus. Mateer, who has shown glimpses of his potential in limited action, is expected to step into the starting role in 2025. With his combination of arm strength, mobility, and ability to read defenses, Mateer has the tools to become one of the top quarterbacks in the country.

For the Sooners to return to their offensive roots, Mateer’s development will be a critical piece of the puzzle. According to experts, he possesses a unique skill set that makes him a natural fit for the up-tempo, spread offense that Jeff Lebby has become known for. While he has yet to play a full season as a starter, Mateer has been widely regarded as one of the most talented quarterbacks to come through the Oklahoma program in recent years. His accuracy, deep-ball prowess, and dual-threat ability make him an ideal fit for Lebby’s offensive system.

The 2025 season will be a major test for Mateer, but experts believe that with a full offseason to prepare as the starter, his potential is limitless. As he becomes more comfortable with the offense, develops chemistry with his receiving corps, and improves his decision-making under pressure, Oklahoma’s offense is poised to thrive in ways it hasn’t in recent years. Mateer’s growth as a leader will be one of the biggest storylines of the 2025 season for the Sooners.

Coaching Changes: Jeff Lebby’s Offense in Full Swing

The arrival of Jeff Lebby as Oklahoma’s offensive coordinator in 2022 marked a new chapter in the program’s offensive philosophy. Known for his fast-paced, explosive offensive schemes, Lebby brings a modern approach that emphasizes speed, space, and big-play potential. At his previous stops, including as the offensive coordinator at Ole Miss, Lebby’s offenses were among the most dynamic in the country, regularly ranking near the top in scoring and total yardage.

In 2025, Lebby will have had the opportunity to fully implement his system, and experts believe the results will be evident. His play-calling has been lauded for its creativity and adaptability, and he has a knack for getting the most out of his players, particularly quarterbacks. Under Lebby’s guidance, Mateer will be tasked with running an offense that prioritizes up-tempo tempo and an explosive passing game, while also making use of the run game to keep defenses off balance. The ability to push the ball downfield, make defenses defend the entire field, and create space for playmakers will be essential in Oklahoma’s offensive resurgence.

With Lebby fully at the helm, the offensive scheme will be more consistent and more dynamic than it has been in recent seasons. Lebby is known for adjusting his system to fit the strengths of his personnel, and with a talented group of players at his disposal, he will have the ability to tweak the offense to create favorable matchups. As the season progresses, experts predict that Lebby’s influence will be felt in every game, and his ability to make quick, strategic decisions will be a major factor in Oklahoma’s success.

Oklahoma’s Offensive Line: Building the Foundation

Another major factor contributing to Oklahoma’s expected offensive improvement in 2025 is the strength of the offensive line. Historically, Oklahoma’s success has been closely tied to the play of its offensive line. In recent years, the Sooners have faced some challenges in this area, but the 2025 season will see the return of a talented, experienced offensive line that should provide better protection for Mateer and open up more running lanes for the team’s ball carriers.

The Sooners’ offensive line will benefit from a combination of seasoned veterans and younger players with significant upside. Experts point to key players like Anton Harrison, Chris Murray, and Tyler Guyton as potential difference-makers up front. With a solid offensive line in place, Mateer will have more time to survey the field, make accurate throws, and keep defenders off balance with his mobility. Additionally, the running backs will have more opportunities to break free in the open field, and the offense as a whole will be more balanced and difficult to stop.

Improving the offensive line will also help Oklahoma’s overall consistency. By establishing a stronger run game, the Sooners can control the clock, move the chains, and take pressure off their young quarterback. The improved play of the offensive line will give Lebby more flexibility in his play-calling, allowing him to incorporate more variety into the offense and dictate tempo throughout the game.

Wide Receiver and Playmaker Depth: Talent Everywhere

The Sooners have long been known for producing elite wide receivers, and that trend is expected to continue in 2025. With a talented group of pass-catchers returning and new talent arriving, Oklahoma’s offense will feature one of the most dynamic wide receiver corps in the country. Wideouts like Jaden Gibson, Theo Wease, and Marvin Mims will be key contributors, with each capable of making big plays both downfield and in the short-to-intermediate passing game.

Gibson, in particular, is viewed as a future star. Standing at 6’5″, he offers a unique combination of size and speed that makes him a nightmare for opposing defensive backs. His ability to win contested catches and stretch the field will give Mateer a legitimate weapon on the outside, allowing the Sooners to push the ball downfield and stretch defenses horizontally and vertically. Wease, on the other hand, is known for his route-running ability and his knack for making plays in clutch situations. Both players will be expected to step up and be major playmakers in 2025.

In addition to the wide receivers, Oklahoma will have a stable of talented running backs who can contribute in both the run game and the passing game. Marcus Major, Tawee Walker, and Gavin Sawchuk will all be part of a dynamic backfield that will help balance the offense. The ability to use running backs in the passing game will be an asset for Lebby, as it allows him to keep defenses off-balance and opens up more opportunities for big plays.

The SEC Challenge: Competing on a Bigger Stage

Perhaps the biggest challenge for Oklahoma in 2025 will be its transition to the Southeastern Conference (SEC). The SEC is known for its physical, elite defenses, and the competition in this conference will be much tougher than what the Sooners have faced in the Big 12. However, experts believe that Oklahoma’s offensive system is well-suited for the SEC. Lebby’s up-tempo, fast-paced offense will be difficult for even the most talented SEC defenses to handle, especially with the array of playmakers the Sooners will have at their disposal.

Additionally, Oklahoma has always had a strong offensive tradition, and the Sooners are no strangers to competing at a national level. With the right offensive balance, Oklahoma has the potential to make a major impact in its new conference. The key will be maintaining offensive efficiency while continuing to develop and grow throughout the season.