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The Oklahoma Sooners secured an important victory over the Tennessee Volunteers with a 33-27 win at Neyland Stadium on Saturday (November 1). This win keeps Oklahoma's College Football Playoff hopes alive as they improve to 7-2 overall and 3-2 in the Southeastern Conference (SEC).
The game was marked by a strong performance from Oklahoma's kicker, Tate Sandell, who made four field goals, including two 55-yarders that tied a stadium record. Running back Xavier Robinson also played a key role, rushing for 115 yards and scoring a touchdown late in the third quarter to give the Sooners a lead they maintained for the rest of the game. Quarterback John Mateer contributed with a rushing touchdown in the final minutes to secure the win.
Tennessee, ranked 14th, struggled with turnovers, committing three in the first half alone. Quarterback Joey Aguilar threw two interceptions and lost a fumble, which allowed Oklahoma to capitalize and take control of the game. Despite a late touchdown pass from Aguilar to Mike Matthews, the Volunteers could not overcome their early mistakes.
The game was significant for Tennessee coach Josh Heupel, who faced his former team, Oklahoma, where he was once a Heisman Trophy runner-up. Oklahoma coach Brent Venables, who served as an assistant coach during Heupel's time as a player, led the Sooners to this important win.
With this victory, Oklahoma remains in the playoff race, while Tennessee's chances are diminished with their third loss of the season. The Sooners will have a bye next week before facing Alabama on November 15.