Where does Oklahoma rank in 'The Film Guy's' top 25?

The Oklahoma Sooners are determined to prove last season was the beginning of a sustained return to national championship contention rather than a one-year breakthrough. The Sooners returned to the College Football Playoff for the first time in six seasons.

Their postseason run was brief, however, as the Alabama Crimson Tide eliminated them with a 34-24 victory in Norman. Even so, Oklahoma showed it could compete in the SEC after questions surrounding the program following its move from the Big 12. Last season helped answer many of those concerns, but the Sooners still have more to prove.

While the season is still over a month away, analysts are already sharing their thoughts on the Sooners ahead of the 2026 season. ESPN's Football Power Index (FPI) ranked Oklahoma No. 12 with a 28.2% chance of returning to the playoff.

College football analyst Brooks Austin revealed his top-25 teams on "The Film Guy Network" heading into the season. He has the Sooners inside his top 10.

"No. 8 the Oklahoma Sooners," Austin said. "This is a defensive play for me. David Stone, Kip Lewis and the Bowen brothers. (Owen) Heinecke comes back. It's Brent Venables, guys."

Austin's ranking reflects the confidence many have in Oklahoma's defense entering 2026. With stars such as Stone and Lewis returning, along with Venables directing one of the nation's most respected defensive units, the Sooners have the foundation to compete with anyone. If the offense takes the expected step forward, Oklahoma could justify Austin's top-10 ranking and emerge as a legitimate national championship contender.

Contact/Follow us @SoonersWire on X (formerly known as Twitter), and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Oklahoma news, notes, and opinions. You can also follow Jaron on X @jaronspor.

This article originally appeared on Sooners Wire: Where does Oklahoma rank in 'The Film Guy's' top 25?