Oklahoma Sooner Football Dominates Academically: Sets New GPA Record, Leads SEC in APR
In a powerful testament to the “student” in student-athlete, the University of Oklahoma’s football program has made headlines — not just for its performance on the field, but for its dominance in the classroom. The Sooners have set a new academic standard, achieving the highest team GPA in program history and topping the SEC in Academic Progress Rate (APR).
This academic breakthrough underscores the culture shift within the Oklahoma football program under head coach Brent Venables. While the Sooners continue to prepare for elite competition in the Southeastern Conference, their commitment to academic excellence is now drawing equal attention.
According to the university’s latest report, the team recorded a cumulative GPA of 3.20 — the highest ever since the program began tracking academic performance. In addition, Oklahoma led all SEC football teams in APR, a metric that measures student-athlete eligibility, retention, and graduation.
“This is more than a win,” said Venables during a recent press briefing. “This is a statement that we’re building champions on and off the field. Every coach says that, but our players are proving it.”
The APR, released annually by the NCAA, is a critical benchmark for athletic programs. Teams that fall below minimum standards can face penalties, including loss of scholarships or postseason bans. But Oklahoma isn’t just meeting expectations — they’re setting the bar for others.
Joe Castiglione, Oklahoma’s longtime athletic director, praised the efforts of student-athletes, academic advisors, and coaches alike. “This achievement reflects a total team effort,” Castiglione said. “From the locker room to the library, our student-athletes are putting in the work. This is exactly what we strive for in the transition to the SEC.”
Several players have also spoken out about the pride they take in their academic work. Senior linebacker Danny Stutsman, known for his tenacity on defense, has become an unexpected ambassador for student-athlete balance. “I came here to compete, but I also came here to graduate,” Stutsman said. “We’re proving that you don’t have to choose one or the other.”
The news has been met with celebration not just within the football program but across the entire university. Professors and staff have applauded the shift in attitude and effort. Dr. Monica Barber, a faculty athletic representative, noted the positive example the players are setting: “They’re role models in every sense of the word. This is how you transform a program’s identity.”
As the Sooners prepare to enter full SEC competition next season, the message is clear: Oklahoma isn’t just ready to compete — they’re ready to lead. Whether it’s on the scoreboard or the report card, the Sooners are aiming to dominate every category.
