The first massive Michigan football showdown of 2026 is officially set for the big stage. The Wolverines will host the Oklahoma Sooners on Saturday, Sept. 12, with kickoff scheduled for noon ET on Fox. This marks a notable change from last season's primetime matchup under the lights in Norman, Oklahoma.
For Michigan, this game is about more than just a new time slot—it's about revenge. The Sooners handed the Wolverines a 24-13 loss in 2025, a defeat that proved costly for both teams' trajectories. Oklahoma rode that momentum all the way to the College Football Playoff, while Michigan saw its season end with a Citrus Bowl loss to Texas on Dec. 31.
Last year's meeting was also a trial by fire for freshman quarterback Bryce Underwood in his debut season with U-M. Underwood completed just 37.5% of his passes for 142 yards and one interception, while his three rushing attempts netted negative yardage. His lone highlight came in the third quarter with a 44-yard bomb to Donaven McCulley that set up a field goal, pulling Michigan within one score at 21-13.
The Sooners return plenty of firepower, led by quarterback John Mateer. The former Washington State transfer was the best player on the field in 2025, completing 61.8% of his passes for 270 yards, one touchdown, and one interception, while also rushing for 74 yards and two scores. He'll once again be the focal point of Michigan's defensive game plan.
There's also been plenty of offseason movement between these two programs. Standout linebacker Cole Sullivan transferred to Oklahoma after the Wolverines hired head coach Kyle Whittingham. Meanwhile, Michigan added a former Sooner of its own, landing top 2024 running back prospect Taylor Taum from the transfer portal—though Taum has since moved to the secondary.
With revenge on the line, a new kickoff time, and plenty of familiar faces in unfamiliar jerseys, this September showdown is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated games of the college football season. Gear up for game day with your Michigan football apparel and get ready for a noon kickoff that promises big-time stakes.