Oklahoma Sooners’ Preseason AP Rankings: A History of Exceeding Expectations

The University of Oklahoma's football program has long been a staple in the upper echelon of college football. Over the past 24 years, the Sooners have consistently entered each season with high expectations, as reflected in their preseason AP poll rankings. While some teams might struggle to live up to the hype, Oklahoma has often defied the odds, finishing the season ranked higher than their preseason standing. As the 2024 season kicks off with the Sooners ranked 16th, history suggests that this team could be on the verge of another remarkable run, with full playoff potential in sight.

A Look Back at 24 Years of Preseason Rankings

The Sooners’ journey through the AP poll over the last two decades is a testament to their program's resilience and consistency. Here's a snapshot of their preseason rankings:

• 2000: 19
• 2001: 3
• 2002: 2
• 2003: 1
• 2004: 2
• 2005: 7
• 2006: 10
• 2007: 8
• 2008: 4
• 2009: 3
• 2010: 7
• 2011: 1
• 2012: 4
• 2013: 16
• 2014: 4
• 2015: 19
• 2016: 3
• 2017: 7
• 2018: 7
• 2019: 7
• 2020: 5
• 2021: 2
• 2022: 9
• 2023: 20
• 2024: 16

This consistent presence in the AP poll underscores Oklahoma’s status as a perennial powerhouse in college football. However, what truly sets the Sooners apart is their ability to surpass these preseason rankings by the end of the season.

Exceeding Expectations

2000: A Championship Season
The 2000 season serves as a prime example of the Sooners’ tendency to outperform their preseason expectations. Entering the year ranked 19th, Oklahoma went on an incredible run, capturing the national championship with a 13-2 victory over Florida State in the Orange Bowl. This dramatic rise from the middle of the pack to the pinnacle of college football is a hallmark of the Sooners' storied history.

2005 and 2006: Climbing the Ladder
In both 2005 and 2006, Oklahoma began the season ranked 7th and 10th, respectively. Yet, by the end of each season, the Sooners had climbed the rankings, finishing strong in bowl games and establishing themselves as a force to be reckoned with in the college football landscape.

2008: A Battle to the BCS Championship
In 2008, the Sooners were ranked 4th in the preseason but quickly proved themselves as one of the best teams in the country. Led by Heisman Trophy winner Sam Bradford, Oklahoma advanced to the BCS National Championship Game, finishing the season as the runner-up to the Florida Gators.

2017 and 2018: Playoff Contenders
The Sooners entered both the 2017 and 2018 seasons ranked 7th in the AP poll. Under the guidance of head coach Lincoln Riley, Oklahoma made back-to-back appearances in the College Football Playoff, exceeding their preseason expectations and solidifying their status as a top-tier program.

2023: A Resurgence
Last season, the Sooners were ranked 20th in the preseason, yet they managed to surpass expectations once again. Despite being considered a long shot at the start, Oklahoma fought their way into the top 10, demonstrating the program’s resilience and ability to compete at the highest level.

As the 2024 season begins, the Sooners find themselves ranked 16th in the AP poll. While some might view this as a middling position, history suggests that Oklahoma is poised to exceed expectations once more. With a team full of talent and a strong coaching staff, there is reason to believe that the Sooners could end the season ranked in the top 10, with a legitimate shot at making the College Football Playoff.

The combination of a solid defense, a dynamic offense, and a rich tradition of overcoming adversity makes Oklahoma a team to watch in 2024. If past seasons are any indication, the Sooners are more than capable of turning a preseason ranking of 16th into a memorable season that culminates in playoff contention.

For Oklahoma fans, the 2024 preseason ranking of 16th should not be a cause for concern but rather a source of optimism. The Sooners have a proven track record of outperforming expectations, and this season could be no different. With the potential to break into the top 10 and make a run at the College Football Playoff, Oklahoma is once again poised to be a major player on the national stage. As the season unfolds, the Sooners will look to add another chapter to their legacy of exceeding expectations and achieving greatness.