Late addition of UTEP could be costly

Following the departure of two Big 12 members, TCU jumped on an invitation to join the league. As most know, the Horned Frogs already had a date with the Sooners this season, but as an out-of-conference game. That changed, though, and created another vacant spot on OU’s 2012 slate.

With not much time and little teams to pick from, the Sooners were able to get the mighty Florida A&M Rattlers to travel to Norman for what should be an easy win for one of the most hyped teams of the 2012 season.

However, contrary to popular belief, their other game may not be so easy.

While it seems like a guaranteed victory on the outside, Oklahoma’s trip to El Paso, Texas could be costly.

The Sooners were fortunate to get Conference USA’s UTEP to play them the first week of the season, but Oklahoma will start their title campaign on the road.

Not only will Oklahoma have an early road test in the desert, they will have to wait until 9:30 PM CST for kickoff.

For a team that has the potential to win a championship, it would be great to add a blowout road win to the OU’s resume. However, road games and late kickoffs may be a recipe for disaster.

Remember last season when the Sooners walked in to Lawrence for a late night bout with the Jayhawks? OU cleaned the score up at the end, but Kansas gave OU some fits.

Thankfully, it was the middle of the season. Oklahoma wasn’t lacking any game experience, and were able to overcome Rock Chalk Jayhawk.

Though, the Sooners won’t have Ryan Broyles, and lost some key seniors. If the Sooners aren’t up for this game, and get down on the scoreboard, OU could victim of another season-opening upset.

Last time Oklahoma started their year in the state of Texas with one of the best quarterbacks in the nation, well, the Sooners ended up playing in UTEP’s stadium for the 2009 Sun Bowl.

It is pertinent the Sooners start off 2012 with a bang. As the Solid Verbal put it, Oklahoma really Clemson’d last year. Had all the hype in the world, but inclement weather and injuries took a toll on the 2011 Sooners.

They did finish strong by taking care of business in the Insight Bowl, but meaningless bowl games are not what this team is striving for in early January.

You will be able to see if the Sooners avoid a season-opening loss on September 1. Fox Sports Network will have the broadcast for the Sooners first bout with UTEP since their 68-0 win over the Miners in 2002.