Overview

• Hawkins is set to start Saturday against Kent State as Oklahoma reassesses the position during Mateer’s recovery from a broken hand.
• The Sooners are 4-0 and ranked No. 5 entering the nonconference game, while Kent State is 1-3 on a three-game skid.
• Coaches point to a sturdier line that has allowed five sacks in four games and a deeper receiver group compared with last season.
• Arbuckle and quarterbacks coach John Kuceyeski credit Hawkins’ film work and command, and Hawkins cites guidance from Mateer along with daily reps versus Brent Venables’ highly ranked defense.
• Oklahoma anticipates the season debut of transfer receiver Javonnie Gibson, adding another target for the new starter.