The fourth week of the college football season concluded with one of the most eagerly awaited matchups of 2024: No. 13 Oklahoma facing off against No. 7 Tennessee.

Thanks to a stellar performance from their defense, the Vols thwarted the Sooners’ SEC debut, winning 25-15 at Gaylord Family-Oklahoma Memorial Stadium in Norman, Oklahoma, on Saturday night.

With this victory, Tennessee’s coach Josh Heupel celebrated a successful return to Norman, enhancing the Vols’ record to 4-0 overall and 1-0 in SEC play. Heupel previously led the Sooners to the national championship in 2000 and began his coaching career at Oklahoma.

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The Vols’ defense restricted the Sooners’ offense to just 222 yards, registering Oklahoma’s first safety since 2010. Tennessee also recorded 11 tackles for losses totaling 45 yards, along with four pass deflections, three sacks, and an interception during the game.

Quarterback Nico Iamaleava led the Vols with 13 completions on 21 attempts for 194 yards and one touchdown, although he did fumble the ball twice during the match.

A key development for Oklahoma involved coach Brent Venables opting for a quarterback change just before halftime, bringing in Michael Hawkins Jr. to replace starter Jackson Arnold. Hawkins Jr. directed both of the Sooners’ touchdown drives, completing 11 of 18 passes for 132 yards and one touchdown.

Stay tuned for a recap, updates, and highlights from this exciting top-25 clash:

Tennessee vs Oklahoma highlights

Tennessee vs Oklahoma score

Tennessee vs Oklahoma updates

(This section has been refreshed with the latest updates.)

Final: Tennessee 25, Oklahoma 15

Tennessee triumphs in SEC road match against Oklahoma

Tennessee claimed victory against Oklahoma with a score of 25-15 in Josh Heupel’s homecoming to Norman. The Vols are now 4-0 this season and 1-0 within the SEC, while the Sooners are 3-1 and 0-1.

Oklahoma scores a late touchdown

Oklahoma managed to score on fourth-and-goal when Jovantae Barnes rushed the ball in from the 1-yard line. Jackson Arnold substituted for Michael Hawkins Jr. during the play, following Hawkins Jr.’s hard fall during a prior touchdown attempt. The drive resulted from a roughing the passer penalty against Tennessee. The Vols received the ball back with 1:09 left, leading 25-15 after Oklahoma failed to convert the 2-point conversion attempt.

Tennessee settles for a field goal

Faced with a fourth-and-1 situation, Tennessee’s Josh Heupel called for his special teams to come in, and Max Gilbert successfully kicked a 32-yard field goal, increasing the Vols’ lead to 25-9 with 3:35 left in the fourth quarter.

Tennessee stops Oklahoma’s drive on downs

Though Oklahoma regained possession after halting Tennessee, they were unable to capitalize, resulting in a turnover on downs. Tennessee took over at the Sooners’ 45-yard line.

Oklahoma finds the end zone

The Sooners made a late surge as Michael Hawkins Jr. found Jovantae Barnes for a 2-yard touchdown pass. This marked a break in Tennessee’s streak of 19 quarters without allowing an offensive touchdown. Tennessee’s lead stands at 22-9 with 8:25 left in the fourth quarter after Tyler Keltner’s PAT attempt failed.

Roughing the passer penalty on Tennessee’s Dominic Bailey

A 15-yard roughing the passer penalty against Tennessee’s defensive lineman Dominic Bailey propelled Oklahoma further into Vols territory, following a 10-yard catch by Zion Ragins on third-and-2.

Sooners defense creates a punt situation

The Oklahoma defense stepped up, stopping Tennessee on third down as Kani Walker tackled DeSean Bishop for a one-yard loss. Oklahoma then took over possession at their own 32-yard line, looking to put points on the board for the first time since the first quarter.

Score after the third quarter: Tennessee 22, Oklahoma 3

Hawkins Jr. hit with a 16-yard sack

Just after Oklahoma completed their longest pass of the evening—13 yards—Tennessee’s defense intensified pressure, recording a 16-yard sack on Michael Hawkins Jr., setting up a challenging third-and-28. Though Hawkins Jr. managed to gain 10 yards on the next attempt, it left the Sooners with a fourth-and-18 as they headed into the fourth quarter.

Nico Iamaleava connects with Bru McCoy for a 42-yard gain

Nico Iamaleava successfully connects with a leaping Bru McCoy, making a remarkable 42-yard advancement to the Oklahoma 28-yard line. This sets up a 41-yard field goal by Max Gilbert, extending Tennessee’s lead to 22-3 with 6:03 remaining in the third quarter.

Michael Hawkins Jr. returns for the Sooners

Michael Hawkins Jr. is back on the field for the Sooners after halftime. Jackson Arnold remains on the sidelines with his helmet still on.

Tennessee kicks off the second half

The Volunteers’ offense takes the field to begin the second half.

Halftime score: Tennessee 19, Oklahoma 3

Halftime statistics

Here’s a summary of the first half statistics between Tennessee and Oklahoma:

• Total yards: Tennessee 204, Oklahoma 82
• Passing yards: Tennessee 126, Oklahoma 54
• Rushing yards: Tennessee 78, Oklahoma 28
• First downs: Tennessee 7, Oklahoma 7
• Third downs: Tennessee 3 of 10, Oklahoma 1 of 7
• Turnovers: Tennessee 2, Oklahoma 3

Despite two fumbles, Nico Iamaleava completed 8 of 11 passes for 126 yards and one touchdown in the first half. Jackson Arnold managed to pass for 54 yards on 7 of 16 attempts.

Tennessee leads at halftime

Tennessee demonstrated their status as a top-10 team in the nation during the first half, controlling the game and heading into halftime with a solid 19-3 lead.

Quarterback switch for Oklahoma

Brent Venables decides to replace Jackson Arnold, bringing in freshman quarterback Michael Hawkins Jr. for what is likely the Sooners’ final drive before halftime, following Arnold’s three turnovers.

Dylan Sampson scores for Tennessee

Tennessee advances to a 19-3 lead in the second quarter as Dylan Sampson skillfully spins backward into the end zone for the touchdown.

Sooners turn the ball over to Tennessee

In a repetitive twist, both teams exchange turnovers again within moments. This time, Jackson Arnold’s lateral pass was deemed a fumble when the OU receiver failed to secure it. The ruling was upheld, handing Tennessee possession at the Oklahoma 46-yard line.

Tennessee fumbles again

While under pressure from an Oklahoma blitz, Nico Iamaleava loses the ball for the second time tonight. Trace Ford created the turnover, and Gracen Halton recovered it.

Injury timeout for Kendel Dolby

Kendel Dolby, a defensive back for the Sooners, had to be carted off the field following a lower-leg injury. The entire Oklahoma team surrounded him as he was transported away in an air cast.

Tennessee secures a safety

A false start penalty by Oklahoma proves costly as Tennessee capitalizes on the play, resulting in a safety after Jayson Jenkins tackles Jovantae Barnes in the end zone. The Sooners continue to struggle offensively.

Tennessee punts the ball

Unable to convert on a third-and-12, Tennessee opts to punt. Oklahoma begins their next drive at their own 12-yard line with 9:17 left in the second quarter.

Jackson Arnold loses possession

Tennessee quickly regains the ball as Jackson Arnold has it stripped while trying to run. The Volunteers take over at their own 7-yard line.

Tennessee fumbles again

Oklahoma applies pressure, forcing Nico Iamaleava to fumble on Tennessee’s 5-yard line. This marks the seventh fumble recovery for the Sooners this season, according to ESPN’s broadcast.

First Quarter: Tennessee 10, Oklahoma 3

Tennessee’s first touchdown

In the final moments of the first quarter, the Volunteers score quickly as Nico Iamaleava connects with Dont’e Thornton Jr. for a 66-yard touchdown pass, putting Tennessee ahead 10-3 with just three seconds left in the quarter.

Oklahoma equalizes at 3-3

Oklahoma ties the game at 3-3 with a field goal by Tyler Keltner after failing to convert on third-and-1. There are only 33 seconds remaining in the first quarter.

Tennessee gains a 3-0 advantage

Max Gilbert, the Volunteers’ kicker, successfully converts a 27-yard field goal, giving Tennessee a 3-0 lead over Oklahoma after a six-play, 42-yard drive.

Jermod McCoy intercepts Arnold

Oklahoma forces Tennessee into a three-and-out, but shortly after, the Volunteers regain possession as Jermod McCoy intercepts a pass from Jackson Arnold. There has been minimal offensive action thus far.

Tennessee forces an early punt

The Volunteers are applying significant pressure on Oklahoma’s offense, leading to another three-and-out situation for the Sooners. Tyre West recorded a sack during the second down, putting the Sooners in a tough position.

Tennessee goes three-and-out

The Volunteers are unable to generate offense during their drive, resulting in a three-and-out and forcing a punt. The Sooners take over on their own 20-yard line after the punt results in a touchback.

While Iamaleava managed a notable scramble on second down, Tennessee could not convert on a crucial third-down run play with Sampson.

Tennessee makes a fourth-down stop

Oklahoma decides to go for it on fourth-and-short at midfield but the Volunteers successfully halt their play, allowing Tennessee’s offense to take possession with promising field position.

Pregame

Josh Heupel and Nico prepare

Countdown to Kickoff

Just before the kickoff in Norman, Josh Heupel has a chat with his quarterback, Nico Iamaleava. Tennessee aims to secure its second major victory of the season against Oklahoma after defeating NC State in Week 2.

Sam Bradford Attends Oklahoma-Tennessee Game

The former Oklahoma quarterback and Heisman Trophy winner, Sam Bradford, is present at the Sooners’ SEC opener against Tennessee. Bradford achieved notable success in 2008, passing for 4,720 yards and 50 touchdowns, earning him the Heisman Trophy.

Josh Heupel Recognized Before the Game

Before the game, Heupel received accolades for his return to Norman, where he helped the Sooners secure the 2000 national championship as their starting quarterback. The kickoff for Tennessee-Oklahoma is looming just 20 minutes away.

Jackson Arnold and Oklahoma Take the Field

The kickoff is imminent as the Sooners step onto the field for their inaugural SEC game.

Kirk Herbstreit’s Dog Ben Joins Tennessee-Oklahoma Game

Kirk Herbstreit, who is covering the game for ABC, has brought his dog Ben along. They are taking a stroll on the field before heading to the press box where Herbstreit will join Chris Fowler for commentary.

Injury Updates for Tennessee and Oklahoma

Here are the latest injury updates for the highly anticipated SEC matchup on Saturday between Tennessee and Oklahoma, as reported by Adam Sparks from the Knoxville News Sentinel:

Tennessee Injury Report

• DB Jourdan Thomas (out)
• DB John Slaughter (out)
• OL Shamurad Umarov (out)
• OT Lance Heard (out)

Oklahoma Injury Report

• WR Jayden Gibson (out)
• WR Jalil Farooq (out)
• DB Gentry Williams (out)
• OL Geirean Hatchett (out)
• LB Dasan McCullough (out)
• OL Branson Hickman (game-time decision)
• OL Jake Taylor (game-time decision)

Nico Iamaleava Warms Up

Tennessee quarterback Nico Iamaleava is out on the field starting his warm-ups. This marks his first real away game as a starter.

Josh Heupel and Tennessee Arrive at the Stadium

Tennessee’s head coach Josh Heupel has made his way to Gaylord Family-Oklahoma Memorial Stadium for the game. This is Heupel’s first visit back to Norman since being let go as the Sooners’ offensive coordinator in 2014.

Oklahoma’s Uniform for the Game

The Sooners are donning their traditional crimson and cream uniforms for their SEC opener against Tennessee.

Tennessee’s Uniform for the Contest

Tennessee will be sporting an all-white uniform for their SEC road game against Oklahoma today.

Game Timing for Tennessee vs. Oklahoma

• Date: Saturday, Sept. 21
• Time: 6:30 p.m. CT
• Location: Gaylord Family – Oklahoma Memorial Stadium (Norman, Oklahoma)

The kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET on Saturday, Sept. 21, at Gaylord Family – Oklahoma Memorial Stadium in Norman, Oklahoma.

Where to Watch Tennessee vs. Oklahoma Game

• TV Channel: ABC
• Streaming: ESPN+ | Fubo (with free trial)
• Radio: KRXO 107.7 FM (Oklahoma) | WIVK-FM 107.7 (Tennessee)

The matchup between Oklahoma and Tennessee will be aired on ABC. Commentary will be provided by Chris Fowler and Kirk Herbstreit from the broadcast booth, with Holly Rowe reporting from the sidelines. For streaming, options include ESPN+ and Fubo, which offers a free trial for new sign-ups.

Historical Overview: Tennessee vs. Oklahoma

• Series Record: Oklahoma leads 3-1
• Tennessee’s Last Victory: 1938 (17-0)
• Oklahoma’s Last Victory: 2015 (31-24, 2OT)

Predictions for Tennessee vs. Oklahoma

Tennessee 41, Oklahoma 24: “While Oklahoma is currently the strongest team Tennessee has faced in 2024, I have faith in the Vols. They will tackle this challenging away game with a freshman quarterback and come out not just as contenders for the SEC title but also for a national championship.” – Colin Lynch, College Football Network.

Tennessee 34, Oklahoma 20: “Oklahoma’s offense has experienced multiple drives without a touchdown in every game this season. They cannot afford that on Saturday if they want to keep pace with quarterback Nico Iamaleava and the high-scoring Volunteers, who lead the nation in points per game (63.7). Receiver Nic Anderson might debut for the Sooners, which would significantly help them. However, Oklahoma still lacks a robust running game, and their banged-up offensive line will struggle against an elite Tennessee defensive line led by James Pearce Jr. The Volunteers should emerge victorious.” – Justin Martinez, The Oklahoman.

Tennessee 34, Oklahoma 20: “The key matchup will likely feature Tennessee’s intimidating defensive front against Oklahoma’s improved but undermanned offensive line. I doubt the Sooners can overcome that obstacle.” – John Adams, Knoxville News Sentinel.

Betting Odds for Tennessee vs. Oklahoma

Here are the live odds from BetMGM as of Saturday:

• Spread: Tennessee -6.5
• Over/under: 57.5
• Moneyline: Tennessee (-250) | Oklahoma (+200)

Injury Updates for Tennessee vs. Oklahoma

Below is the injury report for the Tennessee vs. Oklahoma game as of Wednesday, according to Adam Sparks from the Knoxville News Sentinel:

Tennessee: DB Jourdan Thomas (out), DB John Slaughter (out), OL Shamurad Umarov (out), OT Lance Heard (questionable), DB William Wright (probable), OL William Satterwhite (probable), and LB Ben Bolton (probable)

Oklahoma: WR Jayden Gibson (out), WR Jalil Farooq (out), DB Gentry Williams (out), OL Geirean Hatchett (out), LB Dasan McCullough (doubtful), TE Cade McIntyre (questionable), OL Branson Hickman (questionable), OL Jake Taylor (questionable), WR Nic Anderson (probable), WR Andrel Anthony (probable), DB Kendel…

Dolby (likely) and OL Troy Everett (likely)

Tennessee vs Oklahoma Weather Forecast

The Weather Channel reports that Saturday’s weather in Norman, Oklahoma, will be partly cloudy with temperatures reaching up to 96 degrees. The wind is expected to blow from the south at 12 mph, and there’s only a 2% chance of precipitation.

Tennessee Football 2024 Schedule

Here’s a glimpse at Tennessee’s schedule for 2024, with start times and TV channel details:

All times are listed in Eastern Time

• Aug. 31: vs. Chattanooga (W, 69-3)
• Sept. 7 (Duke’s Mayo Classic): at NC State (W, 51-10)
• Sept. 14: vs. Kent State (W, 71-0)
• Sept. 21: at No. 13 Oklahoma * | 7:30 p.m. | ABC (Fubo)
• Sept. 28: BYE
• Oct. 5: at Arkansas *
• Oct. 12: vs. Florida *
• Oct. 19: vs. No. 4 Alabama *
• Oct. 26: BYE
• Nov. 2: vs. Kentucky *
• Nov. 9: vs. Mississippi State *
• Nov. 16: at No. 1 Georgia *
• Nov. 23: vs. UTEP | 1 p.m. | SEC Network+ (ESPN+)
• Nov. 30: at Vanderbilt *
• Record: 3-0

* Indicates SEC game

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Oklahoma Football Schedule

Here is Oklahoma’s schedule for 2024, including start times and broadcast information:

All times are shown in Eastern Time

• Aug. 30: vs. Temple (W, 51-3)
• Sept. 7: vs. Houston (W, 16-12)
• Sept. 14: vs. Tulane (W, 34-19)
• Sept. 21: vs. No. 7 Tennessee | 7:30 p.m. | ABC (Fubo)
• Sept. 28: at Auburn *
• Oct. 5: BYE
• Oct. 12: vs. No. 2 Texas * | 3:30 p.m.
• Oct. 19: vs. South Carolina *
• Oct. 26: at No. 5 Ole Miss *
• Nov. 2: vs. Maine | 2:30 p.m. | SEC Network+ (ESPN+)
• Nov. 9: at No. 8 Missouri *
• Nov. 16: BYE
• Nov. 23: vs. No. 4 Alabama *
• Nov. 30: at No. 17 LSU *
• Record: 3-0

* Indicates SEC game

Purchase your Oklahoma football tickets for this season via StubHub