Year four of the Brent Venables era kicks off in Week 1. Oklahoma football looks to make a run in the SEC , but first, they need to take care of business against Illinois State. While not the biggest of the opening weekend, these are bold predictions to watch in this game.

Illinois State is entering its 17th season under head coach Brock Spack. The Redbirds are ranked sixth in the first FCS poll, but are also predicted to finish fourth in the conference, behind North Dakota State, South Dakota, and South Dakota State. After opening their season with a loss to Iowa in 2024, they would win nine of their next 11 games, making the FCS playoffs. After a first-round win, they fell to UC Davis in the second round of the playoffs.

Meanwhile, Oklahoma is looking for a rebound campaign. After

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