The Red River Showdown is never really under the radar for the teams and fans, but this one certainly is from a national standpoint. It’s the first time neither team was ranked heading into this rivalry game since 1998.
Both teams are 3-2 while Oklahoma has dropped its first two Big 12 Conference games. Texas is 1-1 in the league. A big factor, especially for the Sooners: poor defense. Oklahoma ranks 109th nationally in total defense and 119th against the run. Texas is 90th in pass defense.
"This is probably the best special teams unit we'll face all year," Sarkisian said. "These guys are talented, they've got great returners, they're really well coached, they've got an NFL return scheme. We've got a lot of work to do in all three phases."
Oklahoma has won the last three meetings including a 55-48 victory last season but is coming off consecutive losses, including a 55-24 defeat against TCU last week.
"We haven't played well the last couple of weeks and our guys are anxious to move forward and have an opportunity to play against a really good Texas football team that -- we're going to have to play well," Venables said. "I think that goes without saying, to have a chance to win this game, you got to play well."
The Red River Showdown kicks off at 11 a.m. Saturday with coverage beginning at 10 a.m. on NewsRadio 1080 KRLD and in the Audacy app.
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