The Oklahoma Sooners have won the Big 12 an unprecedented 14 times since joining the conference in 1996. Of those 14 titles, only one is shared as they split the trophy with Kansas State in 2014.
For many, OU’s hoisting of the championship banner is something they can set their watches to. The Crimson and Cream have brought the title back to Norman each year since 2015. The Sooners have put together formidable squads over these last six years. Teams that have been within reach of a national title more often than not.
Oklahoma is accustomed to needing 45 points each weak to maintain its winning ways (in 2018, it averaged an absurd 59 ppg). However, things began to change last season as defensive coordinator Alex Grinch shored up the defense to allow a respectable 21 ppg.
Just how far could an explosive offense coupled with a competent defense take the Sooners in 2021? USA Today’s Paul Myerburg believes Oklahoma is headed straight past the conference championship and back into national title contention in his Big 12 preseason power rankings.