College Football

UT Martin at Oklahoma State 2025: Game Preview, Time, Location, Streaming & Odds

July 10, 2025

The wait is nearly over as college football fans eagerly prepare for the 2025 season kickoff. On Thursday, August 28, 2025, the Oklahoma State Cowboys will host the UT Martin Skyhawks in a Week 1 non-conference clash at 6:30 PM ET. Taking place at Boone Pickens Stadium in Stillwater, Oklahoma, this game offers the Cowboys a chance to establish momentum early, while the Skyhawks aim to prove they can compete with an FBS opponent.

The matchup — 🏈 UT Martin at Oklahoma State — marks a compelling FBS vs. FCS faceoff. The Skyhawks, one of the most consistent teams in the FCS over the last few seasons, are no strangers to taking on Power Five competition. Meanwhile, the Cowboys look to bounce back from a turbulent 2024 season and begin their Big 12 campaign with confidence and precision.

📅 Game Day Essentials: 🏈 UT Martin at Oklahoma State

Date: Thursday, August 28, 2025
Kickoff Time: 6:30 PM ET
Location: Boone Pickens Stadium, Stillwater, Oklahoma
TV Channel: ESPN+ (Expected)
Streaming Options: ESPN App, FuboTV, Hulu Live, YouTube TV

Fans from both programs will tune in to see the first glimpse of their teams in action. For Oklahoma State, it’s the beginning of a season that could define Mike Gundy’s recent legacy. For UT Martin, it’s a major opportunity to make a statement on a national platform.

🏟️ Venue Overview: Boone Pickens Stadium

One of the loudest stadiums in the Big 12, Boone Pickens Stadium is a fortress for the Cowboys. Known for its intimate proximity between fans and field, the stadium holds over 55,000 fans and brings the Stillwater faithful in full voice every game night. Expect the atmosphere to be electric for this primetime season opener.

🔍 Team Breakdown: 🏈 UT Martin at Oklahoma State

Oklahoma State Cowboys: Looking to Regain Big 12 Dominance

Head coach Mike Gundy enters his 21st season leading the Cowboys, making him one of the longest-tenured coaches in FBS. Oklahoma State endured a rollercoaster 2024 season marked by injuries, quarterback inconsistency, and defensive lapses. But with a fresh start, a healthy roster, and a favorable opening schedule, the Cowboys are poised for a rebound.

🔑 Key Oklahoma State Players to Watch:

QB Alan Bowman: Veteran signal-caller entering his final season, known for accuracy and leadership.
RB Ollie Gordon II: Star running back and the offensive focal point after a breakout 2024 season.
WR Brennan Presley: Explosive slot receiver with elite agility and return ability.
DE Collin Oliver: Pass-rush specialist who disrupts backfields with speed and technique.
LB Nickolas Martin: Defensive leader and tackling machine in the middle.

The Cowboys’ success hinges on their ability to control the line of scrimmage and maintain consistency in the passing game.

UT Martin Skyhawks: FCS Powerhouse with Nothing to Lose

Don’t underestimate UT Martin, led by head coach Jason Simpson, one of the most respected names in FCS football. The Skyhawks consistently contend for Ohio Valley Conference (now UAC) championships and have made multiple FCS playoff appearances. They bring a tough, disciplined, and hungry roster into Stillwater.

🔑 Key UT Martin Players to Watch:

QB Keon Howard: Dual-threat quarterback with FBS experience, dangerous in and out of the pocket.
RB Zak Wallace: One of the most consistent backs in FCS, known for his vision and power.
WR Colton Dowell: Deep-ball specialist and red-zone threat.
LB John Ford: High IQ linebacker who leads the defense with his playmaking.
S DeVonte Hampton: Versatile safety who can play in the box or drop deep.

UT Martin doesn’t have the depth of Oklahoma State, but they’ll look to shorten the game and capitalize on turnovers or special teams.

⚔️ Key Matchups to Watch

Ollie Gordon vs. UT Martin Defensive Line

Gordon is a wrecking ball when he gets into rhythm. If UT Martin can’t slow him down early, expect 150+ yards and multiple scores.

Alan Bowman vs. Skyhawks’ Secondary

Bowman must avoid the mistakes that plagued him last season. If he stays clean, Duke’s receivers will feast on FCS-level defenders.

Keon Howard’s Mobility vs. Cowboys’ Linebackers

Howard’s scrambling could keep drives alive. Oklahoma State will need to assign a spy and avoid over-pursuing.

📈 Odds, Spread, & Predictions: 🏈 UT Martin at Oklahoma State

Point Spread: Oklahoma State -31.5
Over/Under: 58.5
Moneyline: Oklahoma State -10000, UT Martin +2500

Betting Take:

Against the Spread: Take UT Martin +31.5.
Oklahoma State will likely win big, but expect UT Martin to fight hard into the 4th quarter and score enough to cover.
Over/Under: Over 58.5
Even if Oklahoma State handles most of the scoring, UT Martin’s offense can add some late points to push the total over.

⭐ Players to Watch

Alan Bowman – QB, Oklahoma State

With NFL scouts watching closely, this game is an opportunity to show he’s more than just a game manager.

Ollie Gordon – RB, Oklahoma State

A dark-horse Heisman candidate? If he explodes for over 200 yards, the buzz will begin immediately.

Keon Howard – QB, UT Martin

Poised and experienced, he’s played in big games and won’t be intimidated by Stillwater.

Brennan Presley – WR, Oklahoma State

Expect big plays in the return game and from the slot — he’s a game-breaker.

🧠 Coaching Preview: Gundy vs. Simpson

Mike Gundy is Oklahoma State’s winningest coach. His teams are known for explosive offense, gritty defense, and creative play-calling.
Jason Simpson has built UT Martin into a consistent FCS contender. He’s calm, calculated, and excellent at preparing his team for bigger opponents.

This game pits two seasoned coaches with entirely different missions — one looking for championship contention, the other for national recognition.

📊 2024 Season Recap

Oklahoma State Cowboys (2024)

Record: 7–6
Bowl Game: Liberty Bowl (Loss)
Offense: 32.5 PPG
Defense: Allowed 28.3 PPG
Key Stat: Led Big 12 in rushing yards per game (208.6)

UT Martin Skyhawks (2024)

Record: 9–3
Conference: UAC
Playoffs: FCS Second Round
Offense: 30.2 PPG
Defense: Allowed 19.9 PPG
Turnover Margin: +7

🧩 X-Factors in the Game

Turnovers: If Oklahoma State gives UT Martin short fields, things can tighten up quickly.
Special Teams: Expect at least one game-changing return or blocked kick.
Crowd Energy: Boone Pickens will be packed. Can UT Martin communicate under pressure?

🏆 Final Score Prediction

Oklahoma State 48, UT Martin 17

Oklahoma State will come out firing on all cylinders, testing their new playbook and setting the tone for a successful 2025 campaign. UT Martin will find a few big plays but ultimately get overpowered by depth and speed.

Game MVP: Ollie Gordon – 22 carries, 174 yards, 3 TDs
Surprise Star: Oklahoma State TE Quinton Stewart – 2 TDs
Top Defender: Collin Oliver – 2.5 sacks, 1 forced fumble

❓ FAQs – 🏈 UT Martin at Oklahoma State

When is the game?
Thursday, August 28, 2025, at 6:30 PM ET.

Where will it be played?
Boone Pickens Stadium, Stillwater, Oklahoma.

What channel is it on?
Expected to be broadcast on ESPN+ and available via streaming on ESPN app.

Is UT Martin an FBS school?
No, they compete in FCS within the United Athletic Conference (UAC).

What’s Oklahoma State’s record vs FCS teams?
Historically strong — they have never lost to an FCS opponent under Mike Gundy.

Could UT Martin pull off the upset?
While unlikely, FCS upsets do happen. UT Martin is well-coached and won’t be afraid.

🏁 Final Thoughts: Why 🏈 UT Martin at Oklahoma State Is Worth Watching

FBS vs FCS matchups are often overlooked, but 🏈 UT Martin at Oklahoma State presents:

A glimpse at potential breakout stars
High offensive production and pace
A test for Oklahoma State’s readiness
A spotlight moment for UT Martin’s elite players

Whether you’re a Cowboys fan ready for a Big 12 title run or an FCS supporter cheering on the underdog, this game will offer energy, excitement, and high-level football.