Who will START at running back for Oklahoma in 2026? | Is the Sooners offensive line ready to DOMINATE | Recruiting Update

The Locked On Sooners podcast dives into the 2026 Oklahoma Sooners football season with a deep look at the running back position, where a healthy and talented depth chart creates a 'good problem' for head coach Brent Venables. Hosts Jay Smith and John Williams debate whether Lloyd Avant, the newly healthy freshman, will start against UTEP due to his durability and consistency in spring drills, while also acknowledging the potential of veterans Xavier Robinson and Tori Blaylock—both of whom have shown elite production when healthy but have struggled with injuries. The duo also praises the offensive line’s impressive performance in the spring game, highlighting the return of Michael Pesusi and the promising development of Ryan Fojay at right tackle. With four returning starters and a strong recruiting class, the Sooners’ offensive line is seen as a major strength heading into 2026. The episode concludes with a glowing assessment of Oklahoma’s 2027 recruiting class, which leads all programs with 11 players in the Rivals Top 300, fueled by a powerful front office led by Jim Nagy and a seamless collaboration between coaching and recruitment staff. The hosts express optimism that this momentum will carry into a double-digit win season and a return to national championship contention. Key takeaways include: 1) Lloyd Avant is the likely Week 1 starter due to health and consistency; 2) The Sooners’ offensive line has a strong foundation with experienced players and elite development; 3) The front office’s strategic recruitment is a major driver behind the program’s resurgence; 4) The team’s depth at running back allows for heavy rotation and injury protection; 5) The 2027 class is already one of the best in the nation, with multiple five-star prospects; 6) The synergy between coaching and front office staff is critical to sustained success; 7) The Sooners are poised for a 10+ win season and a return to playoff contention; 8) The culture of brotherhood and continuity is a key recruiting and retention advantage.