Sooners Outlast LSU in Heated Battle, Land Star QB Bowe Bentley
In one of the most intense quarterback recruiting battles of the 2026 cycle, the Oklahoma Sooners have come out on top, securing a commitment from four-star quarterback Bowe Bentley, who chose the Sooners over LSU and several other major programs.
Bentley, a 6-foot-3, 210-pound signal-caller out of Shreveport, Louisiana, is known for his strong arm, quick decision-making, and ability to extend plays outside the pocket. Widely regarded as one of the most polished quarterbacks in his class, Bentley had long been considered an LSU lean — but Oklahoma’s coaching staff never backed down.
Head coach Brent Venables and offensive coordinator Jeff Lebby prioritized Bentley early, selling him on the Sooners’ quarterback-friendly system and track record of developing NFL talent. The turning point reportedly came during Bentley’s official visit to Norman in early June, when he connected deeply with the coaching staff and current players.
“I just felt like it was the right place — the right fit for me,” Bentley said after announcing his commitment. “The offense, the energy, the way they believe in me — it all just came together.”
Bentley’s decision is a major win for Oklahoma, which had been searching for a long-term answer at quarterback to carry the program into the next phase of its SEC transition. His commitment not only adds firepower to the Sooners’ 2026 recruiting class but also sends a message that Oklahoma can compete for elite talent, even deep in SEC territory.
With Bentley now locked in, the Sooners can shift their focus to building around their new centerpiece — and keeping LSU, Texas, and others from circling back late.
Oklahoma found their guy. And it just might reshape their future.
