The upcoming matchup between the Tulane Green Wave and Oklahoma Sooners on September 14, 2024, brings together two teams looking to assert their early-season dominance. Oklahoma, led by head coach Brent Venables, comes into the game with a 2-0 record but showed vulnerability in a narrow 16-12 victory over Houston last weekend. Quarterback Jackson Arnold leads the Sooners’ offense, but the team struggled with consistency, especially in the second half against Houston. The Sooners’ offense, which managed only 249 total yards in that game, will need to find its rhythm against a Tulane defense that has been effective in limiting big plays and applying pressure. Tulane, on the other hand, started the season with a strong 52-0 win over Southeastern Louisiana, showcasing a balanced offense led by quarterback Darian Mensah.

Mensah has been productive, throwing for 342 yards and two touchdowns in a close game against Kansas State. The Green Wave’s offense has the potential to challenge Oklahoma’s defense, particularly if they can exploit the weaknesses that Houston uncovered last week. If Tulane’s defense can limit Oklahoma’s run game and force Jackson Arnold into passing situations, they have a chance to keep the game close and potentially cover the spread. The key matchup will be between Oklahoma’s defensive front and Tulane’s offensive line. If Oklahoma can generate pressure and force turnovers, they should control the game. However, if Tulane manages to maintain a balanced attack and avoid costly mistakes, they could keep this game within reach.