The University of Oklahoma cancels classes on the day of the Sooners’ 2024 season opener.

There has been ongoing debate for months and even years about whether the Oklahoma Sooners are ready for the SEC. Brent Venables has had two years to prepare the program for the toughest conference in football, working to rebuild the discipline and toughness that waned under the previous head coach.

Many, including myself, believe Venables is the right person for the job, but preparing for the Southeastern Conference sometimes requires efforts beyond his control.

The University of Oklahoma is making an SEC-like decision for its first game of the 2024 season. The opener against the Temple Owls has been rescheduled from Saturday, August 31, to Friday, August 30. Consequently, the school announced it would suspend regular academic and campus activities that day.

Colton Sulley from The Oklahoman shared the news on social media, noting that holding classes during game day would be impractical due to parking and tailgating issues on campus.

The SEC has often been mocked or criticized for prioritizing athletics, especially football, over other concerns. This decision by the University of Oklahoma is a small example of that, but it will have a significant impact on game day.

By canceling classes, the university allows students to enhance the game day atmosphere that Friday night in Norman. This is part of what it means to join the SEC, for better or worse.

The game was moved at the request of ESPN, which wanted to televise the Sooners’ first SEC game in a prime-time slot. Athletic director Joe Castiglione explained that this unique and exciting opportunity allows for national visibility and cooler evening temperatures, benefiting both players and fans. This first-ever Friday night game at Gaylord Family – Oklahoma Memorial Stadium will be a memorable start to the season and the Sooners’ SEC journey.