Lane Kiffin and Co. will hit the road to Norman in Week 9 to close out October, challenging slate ahead for the Rebels.

With No. 14 Oklahoma (5-1, 1-1 SEC) regrouping after its first loss of the season, Venables faces renewed scrutiny over both Mateer’s health and the team’s playoff outlook. If the Sooners are to bounce back, Finebaum’s critique may serve as a turning point, one that reminds Oklahoma that patience, not panic, often decides championship runs.

The slate suggested some chaos may be on the horizon, and Week 7 did not disappoint.

John Mateer made his remarkable return as OU football ’s starting quarterback, just 17 days after undergoing hand surgery.