Michael Hawkins Jr and Jackson Arnold prepares Oklahoma’s Young Offense for Navy, Looks Ahead to 2025…….

As the Oklahoma Sooners gear up for the Armed Forces Bowl against Navy on December 27, 2024, the spotlight turns to freshman quarterback Michael Hawkins Jr. Following the recent transfer of sophomore quarterback Jackson Arnold to Auburn, Hawkins is set to lead the Sooners’ offense into the postseason and beyond.

Transition at Quarterback

Jackson Arnold, a five-star recruit from Denton, Texas, began the 2024 season as Oklahoma’s starting quarterback. Over ten games, he amassed 1,421 passing yards, 12 touchdowns, and three interceptions, along with 444 rushing yards and three rushing touchdowns. Despite these contributions, Arnold faced challenges, including a mid-season benching after a loss to Tennessee.

In early December, Arnold entered the transfer portal and subsequently committed to Auburn, where he is expected to make an immediate impact.

Michael Hawkins Jr.’s Ascendancy

With Arnold’s departure, Michael Hawkins Jr. steps into the starting quarterback role. A four-star recruit from McKinney, Texas, Hawkins has demonstrated potential throughout the season. In six appearances, he completed 48 of 77 passes for 536 yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions, while also rushing for 143 yards and a touchdown. Notably, Hawkins led a fourth-quarter comeback against Auburn, securing Oklahoma’s first SEC win.

Hawkins has expressed his commitment to the Sooners, stating, “I’m going to be at Oklahoma. This is where I want to be. I want to play at Oklahoma, be the quarterback at Oklahoma.”

Preparing for Navy and Beyond

As the Sooners prepare for their bowl game against Navy, Hawkins is focused on leading a young offense. The matchup presents an opportunity for Hawkins to solidify his role and build momentum heading into the 2025 season.

Looking ahead, Oklahoma’s quarterback depth chart is currently limited, with Hawkins and incoming freshman Jett Niu as the only scholarship quarterbacks slated for the 2025 roster. The coaching staff is expected to explore options in the transfer portal to bolster the position and foster healthy competition.

Anticipated Matchup with Auburn

The 2025 season holds a compelling storyline, as Oklahoma is scheduled to host Auburn on September 20. This game could feature a face-off between former teammates, with Jackson Arnold leading the Tigers and Michael Hawkins Jr. at the helm for the Sooners. Such a matchup would undoubtedly draw significant attention, highlighting the intertwined paths of these two quarterbacks.

Conclusion

The transition from Jackson Arnold to Michael Hawkins Jr. marks a pivotal moment for Oklahoma’s football program. As the Sooners prepare for the Armed Forces Bowl and set their sights on the 2025 season, Hawkins has the opportunity to establish himself as a leader and catalyst for the team’s future success. His performance against Navy and development during the offseason will be critical in shaping Oklahoma’s trajectory in the increasingly competitive landscape of college football.