Latest Slidescroller coverage mentioning Todd Bates across Football.
The second‑week matchup of the 2026 season pits the Michigan Wolverines against the Oklahoma Sooners in a game that could shape both teams' playoff paths.
The 2026 college football season opens with a high‑stakes matchup between Michigan and Oklahoma, two teams eyeing a College Football Playoff berth. With defensive dominance, quarterback injuries, and early betting lines in focus, the game promises a narrative rich in history and future implications.
After a transfer‑portal scare and a sophomore surge, the 6‑foot‑3, 315‑pound tackle is now a cornerstone of the Sooners’ front and a projected first‑round pick.
The Oklahoma Sooners have bolstered their defensive front under head coach Brent Venables, earning a top‑10 ranking from analyst David Pollack. The unit’s progress reflects a blend of experienced returnees and promising newcomers.
Kellan Hall, a top defensive line recruit, celebrated his birthday during a visit to Norman, met with coaches and players, and weighed Oklahoma against a host of elite programs before narrowing his choices later this month.