Tulane to Face 15th-Ranked Oklahoma in Norman
By Patrick Harkness

Spread: -13.5

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Tulane travels to Norman this week to take on the 15th-ranked Sooners after a controversial 34-27 loss to Kansas State. Meanwhile, the Sooners barely escaped with a 16-12 win over former Tulane head coach Willie Fritz and the Houston Cougars. Let’s dive into how this Tulane team might pull off a victory against an Oklahoma squad still trying to find its identity. Can Mensah handle his first big road test, and will Tulane's defense rise to the challenge?

Offense

Quarterback – Mensah’s First Road Challenge

Darian Mensah has looked impressive in his first two collegiate starts, throwing for 547 yards with a 70.7% completion rate, 4 touchdowns, and 1 interception. You really can't ask for much more from a redshirt freshman Quarterback. Mensah and the Tulane offense will be up against a new defensive coordinator tandem at Oklahoma, with Jay Valai and former Clemson aide Zac Alley. Oklahoma head coach Brent Venables, a defensive mastermind, will likely throw multiple formations and stunts at the young QB and Tulane's offensive line, aiming to confuse them.

Mensah needs to keep an eye on Oklahoma’s free safety Billy Bowman, who had six interceptions last year, including three pick-sixes. Though Oklahoma's defense has struggled over the past few seasons, they appear to be improving. However, they're still working out the kinks, and Tulane might be able to capitalize.  Look for this passing attack to challenge Oklahoma's experienced but inconsistent corner back room.

Ty Thompson was irrelevant in the last matchup. Still think Tulane may have some fun packages up their sleeves especially against this Oklahoma Defense. I'm still hoping for Ty to get more involved especially in the redzone with RPOs and Play action rollouts and just let the kid use his athleticism.

Running Back – Makhi Hughes Must Cook

Makhi Hughes is coming off a fantastic performance, rushing for over 120 yards and a touchdown. He’ll be a key factor in this matchup. Oklahoma linebacker Danny Stutsman, a 6'4" senior and likely NFL draft pick, had 15 tackles against Houston and will look to shut down Tulane's run game. If Tulane struggles on the ground, Shadie Clayton could step in to assist in the passing attack, especially after his impressive work in kickoff returns. Arnold Barnes will need to bounce back from his early fumble last week if he wants to see more action.

Receiving Game – The Fantastic Four

Tulane’s “Fantastic Four” receiving core—Mario Williams, Dontae Fleming, Yulkeith Brown, and Alex Bauman—could play a pivotal role. Oklahoma’s corners, led by Woodi Washington and Gentry Williams, along with impact transfer Dez Malone from San Diego State, have talent but can be inconsistent at times. Mario Williams is coming off another 100-yard game but still hasn’t found the end zone. Fleming rebounded nicely last week with 92 yards receiving, and if Oklahoma's defense focuses too much on Williams and Fleming, Brown might be poised for a big game with his speed and playmaking ability. Bauman, meanwhile, has become a reliable target for Mensah, notching two touchdowns last week and three on the season. We can expect this Tulane offense to spread it out and challenge the Oklahoma secondary and capitalize in the redzone with Bauman.

Offensive Line – Clean It Up

Penalties, penalties, penalties. They’re drive-killers. Tulane’s experienced offensive line must clean up the false starts and holding calls if they want to stand a chance on the road. Oklahoma’s defensive front features some heavy hitters in defensive end Ethan Downs (Second Team All-Big 12), Tennessee transfer Da’Jon Terry, and 5-star recruit David Stone. These players will look to disrupt Tulane's offense with multiple formations, stunts and disguised linebacker blitzes, but if the O-line can maintain discipline and read the defense, they have the talent to get the job done.

X-Factor: Offensive Line

Offensive Review – Efficiency is Key

Tulane's offense can move the ball effectively and quickly if they avoid penalties. A well-balanced attack early in the game, finding their vulnerabilities and exploiting them will be key, run game or passing game.

Defense

Defensive Line – Time to Shine

Tulane’s defensive line hasn’t lived up to expectations YET. Initially considered a team strength, both the pass rush and run stopping have been subpar. However, this week's matchup presents a golden opportunity. Oklahoma does not return a single starting player on the offensive line and Oklahoma’s offense is in transition with a new offensive coordinator, offensive line coach, and quarterback. The Sophomore QB Jackson Arnold is more of a pocket passer, but he has mobility when needed, rushing for 62 yards on 22 carries. If Tulane’s front can pressure Arnold, they might force him into costly mistakes. On the season Arnold is still trying to get his feet underneath him with 315 yards passing (63.2% comp rate) but has a respectable 6 passing touchdowns. This Boomer Sooner offense seems to have a running back by committee and is a bit unsettled, with Gavin Sawchuk (RB1), Taylor Tatum (former top running back recruit), and Javonte Barnes all likely to see carries. Stopping them will be crucial.

Linebackers

Tyler Grubbs, second on the team with nine tackles, will need another strong showing. Sam Howard and Dickson Agu are rotating based on game down/type situations. The Sooners' offense is well-balanced, 61 pass attempts and 65 rush attempts, meaning Tulane’s linebackers will be tested, especially by Oklahoma’s tight ends, Bauer Sharp and Jake Roberts, who have combined for 12 catches. Chris Rodgers might also see more snaps, given Oklahoma’s tendency to pass more than Kansas State.

Secondary – Injuries Loom Large

Micah Robinson and Jonathan Edwards both went down with injuries last week. While Edwards is expected to return, Robinson’s status is unclear. Rayshawn Pleasant, who started last game, seems to be gaining confidence and locking down the cornerback one position. This Tulane coaching staff still seems to be trying to figure things out on the back end with Jack Tch and Kevin Adams getting a lot of playing time last game. Look for Jalen Geiger and Bailey Despaine to get the starts at the safety positions. Oklahoma has four receivers who could all be threats. Nic Anderson (that'll be weird to hear), Deion Burkes (transfer from Purdue), and Brennan Thompson all averaged over 20 yards a catch last season. Deion Burkes is "THE GUY" in the offense and leads the team in receptions (15). Burkes is a speedster and has already caught 3 touchdowns which also leads the team. Jalil Farooq is another wideout to keep an eye on, an injury had him out last game. He has big play ability with one catch for 47 yards in week 1. Tulane’s secondary will need to step up, especially if Robinson is out. It'll be their first true test.

X-Factor: Pass Rush/Secondary

Defensive Review – Get After the QB

Getting pressure on QB Jackson Arnold will be critical. If Tulane’s defense can disrupt Oklahoma’s rhythm, especially in the passing game, they have a chance to control the game. Improved tackling will also be key after last week's struggles.

Special Teams

Kicker/Punter

Jacob Barnes has been perfect this season, going 3-for-3 on field goals with a long of 41, and has made all 10 extra points.

 Will Karrol had a solid game last week, flipping field position effectively, and Tulane will need more of the same against Oklahoma.

Stay Tuned for Tulane vs Oklahoma Review later

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This is Patrick Harkness and you can follow me on X @RollDatWave, Facebook, Instagram, and @BeInTheKneaux everywhere.