Jadyn Ott’s transfer to Oklahoma makes LSU football’s 2025 schedule tougher

Jadyn Ott’s Transfer to Oklahoma Makes LSU Football’s 2025 Schedule Tougher

The world of college football is full of surprises, and the offseason is often a time for programs to shift, rebuild, and solidify their rosters for the upcoming season. However, one of the most significant developments in recent weeks has been the news of Jadyn Ott, a dynamic running back from Cal, transferring to the University of Oklahoma. This move has sent shockwaves through the college football landscape, and for LSU football, it has set the stage for a much tougher 2025 schedule. Ott’s transfer represents not only a significant shift in Oklahoma’s offensive capabilities but also a direct challenge to LSU’s defense, as the Tigers will now have to face one of the most explosive players in the country on their already difficult slate of games.

The transfer of Ott to Oklahoma is part of a larger trend of players transferring in pursuit of a better opportunity, but it’s particularly impactful because of the talent he brings to the Sooners’ backfield. This article will take a detailed look at how Ott’s arrival in Norman affects LSU’s 2025 football schedule, what this means for the Tigers’ defense, and how Brian Kelly and his coaching staff are likely to approach the challenge of facing Oklahoma and Ott.

Jadyn Ott: A Brief Overview

Before diving into the ramifications for LSU, it’s important to understand why Jadyn Ott’s transfer to Oklahoma is so significant. Ott, a highly talented running back, made an immediate impact at Cal and quickly emerged as one of the best players in the Pac-12. Standing at 5’10” and weighing 210 pounds, Ott combines size, speed, and agility to become a nightmare for opposing defenses. In his time with the Golden Bears, Ott showcased his ability to not only break tackles but also outrun defenders, becoming a true dual-threat back with the ability to impact both the running and passing game.

Ott’s stats at Cal speak volumes about his potential: he rushed for over 1,000 yards in his freshman year alone, earning him a spot among the nation’s most promising young backs. His performance against some of the toughest defenses in the country only further solidified his status as a top-tier talent. With his vision, balance, and explosiveness, Ott has the ability to change the course of a game, and now that he has transferred to Oklahoma, he will be joining one of the most potent offensive systems in college football.

The Sooners, under head coach Brent Venables, have consistently been known for their high-powered offenses, and Ott’s addition to the backfield makes their offense even more formidable. This is a player who can take over a game with his ability to both run between the tackles and break off long runs, and his versatile skill set will be a key asset to the Sooners as they look to compete in the Big 12 and beyond.

Oklahoma’s 2025 Offense: A Stronger Threat

Oklahoma’s offense is already dangerous, and with Ott now joining the fold, the Sooners’ attack becomes even more dynamic. Venables has implemented a system that places a strong emphasis on both the run and pass game, and Ott fits perfectly into this scheme. With a strong offensive line and a quarterback capable of making all the throws, Oklahoma’s ability to balance their offensive attack is what sets them apart in the Big 12, and Ott’s presence in the backfield only adds another layer of complexity to their already difficult-to-defend system.

Ott’s skill set is particularly valuable in an offense that relies on being able to control the ball and put pressure on opposing defenses. His ability to run between the tackles, stretch the field with his speed, and catch passes out of the backfield means that Oklahoma can use him in a variety of ways to exploit defenses. Whether it’s pounding the ball up the middle for short yardage or breaking free for a long touchdown run, Ott brings an unpredictable element to the Sooners’ offense that will keep defensive coordinators up at night.

For LSU, the challenge of stopping Ott is a major concern. The Tigers have had strong defensive units in recent years, but they will need to be at their best when they face the Sooners. In particular, LSU’s run defense, which has been a strength in recent years, will be tested by Ott’s combination of power and agility. Additionally, LSU will need to account for the passing game, where Ott can be used as a safety valve out of the backfield, catching passes that could turn into big gains.

LSU’s 2025 Schedule: The Tough Road Ahead

LSU’s 2025 football schedule is already set to be one of the most challenging in recent years. The Tigers have a grueling slate of SEC opponents, including perennial powerhouses like Alabama, Georgia, and Texas A&M. These teams have consistently been among the best in college football, and LSU’s matchups with them will be critical in determining their path to the SEC Championship and, potentially, the College Football Playoff.

However, with the addition of Ott to Oklahoma’s roster, LSU’s schedule has gotten even more difficult. LSU will face Oklahoma in a non-conference matchup that promises to be one of the marquee games of the season. The Sooners are expected to be ranked among the top teams in the country, and their offense—now led by Ott—will be a major test for LSU’s defense.

The Tigers’ defense, while consistently one of the top units in the SEC, will be tasked with slowing down one of the most dangerous running backs in the country. LSU has a reputation for producing strong defensive lines and elite linebackers, but stopping Ott will require more than just talent. It will require preparation, discipline, and execution at the highest level.

The Matchup: LSU Defense vs. Oklahoma Offense

One of the most intriguing aspects of the LSU vs. Oklahoma matchup is the contrast in playing styles. LSU’s defense is built on speed, power, and discipline, with a particular emphasis on stopping the run. The Tigers have been known for their ability to lock down running backs and shut down opposing rushing attacks, and they will need to employ a similar strategy against Ott. The defensive front, including players like Maason Smith, Mekhi Wingo, and Harold Perkins, will need to be at their best in order to contain Ott’s explosive playmaking ability.

However, stopping Ott will not be an easy task. His vision, ability to break tackles, and knack for hitting the home run make him a difficult player to game-plan for. LSU’s defensive backs will also need to be alert, as Ott is a capable pass catcher and could take advantage of any defensive lapses in coverage. The Tigers will need to be disciplined in their coverage assignments and avoid giving Ott any open space to operate.

LSU’s defensive coordinator, Matt House, will need to devise a game plan that is flexible enough to adjust to Ott’s skill set. Whether it’s stacking the box with extra defenders to slow down the running game or playing a more aggressive, blitz-heavy scheme to put pressure on Oklahoma’s quarterback, House will need to be creative in his approach. In particular, LSU’s linebacker corps—led by Perkins, who is expected to have another breakout season—will need to play a crucial role in containing Ott both as a runner and as a receiver out of the backfield.

At the same time, LSU will need to rely on their own offensive abilities to keep up with the Sooners. Oklahoma’s defense, while not as feared as its offense, is still formidable, and LSU’s offense will need to find a way to put up points. Quarterback Jayden Daniels will need to be at his best, making accurate throws and making plays with his legs when necessary. The running game, led by John Emery and others, will need to keep the Sooners’ defense on its heels, and the wide receivers will need to create separation from Oklahoma’s defensive backs in order to move the ball down the field.

The Bigger Picture: Implications for the College Football Playoff

The matchup between LSU and Oklahoma goes beyond just one game—it could have serious implications for the College Football Playoff picture. Both teams are expected to be contenders for a spot in the final four, and a win in this non-conference clash could give either team a major boost in the rankings. For LSU, a victory over a top-tier opponent like Oklahoma would provide a significant feather in their cap as they navigate through the SEC gauntlet.

Similarly, for Oklahoma, a win over LSU would signal that they are ready to compete with the SEC’s best teams and could propel them into playoff contention. With Ott in the backfield, the Sooners’ chances of making a deep playoff run are significantly improved, and LSU’s defense will be a key factor in determining whether Oklahoma can live up to their potential.