UTEP faces No. 10 Oklahoma in season opener

The UTEP Miners are officially in game week, preparing to launch their 2026 season this Friday in Norman against the nationally ranked Oklahoma Sooners. This season marks a significant transition for UTEP, as it is their first as members of the Mountain West Conference and the third under Head Coach Scotty Walden.

Oklahoma enters the matchup as a formidable opponent, ranked No. 10 in the AP Top 25 preseason poll and coming off a 10-win season that included a College Football Playoff appearance. The Sooners boast a talented roster, including quarterback John Mateer and defensive lineman Taylor Wein, and are heavily favored by analysts.

Despite being listed as 40- to 41.5-point underdogs, the UTEP players and coaching staff are embracing the daunting task ahead. They acknowledge the caliber of their opponent and express a focused mentality, viewing the opportunity as one to relish. This game will also feature the debut of UTEP's starting quarterback, EJ Colson Jr., who was named to the position in May.

Additionally, safety Solo Barnes is currently with the team and enrolled, with plans to play in 2026, though clarity on his playing status for the season is still being sought. The Miners are looking to make a statement in their season opener, which is also a program first, as they have never opened a season on a Friday before.