Texas vs. Oklahoma Tips, Odds, How to Watch: No. 1 Longhorns are heavily favored in the Red River Rivalry

Sorry, Big 12, but the Red River rivalry between Texas and Oklahoma now belongs to the SEC, and it's no exaggeration to say that this year's matchup in the Cotton Bowl means more. The top-ranked Longhorns are considered heavy favorites, but the Sooners already defied the odds last season.

Both teams have just come off a bye, so they should be reasonably healthy and well prepared. The big news for Texas (5-0, 1-1 SEC) is that Quinn Ewers is expected to start at quarterback despite Arch Manning playing so well as a backup. The Longhorns' luxury under center stands in stark contrast to the production Oklahoma (4-1, 1-1) has received at the position and underscores the colossal mismatch in this game, at least on paper.

Michael Hawkins Jr. has replaced Jackson Arnold as the Sooners' No. 1 quarterback and will make history as the first true freshman to start for Oklahoma in this rivalry. Hawkins helped his team to a 27-21 comeback win at Auburn in his first career start, but a much tougher test awaits him in Dallas. Texas is No. 1 in the country in passing and has given up just one touchdown compared to seven interceptions in five games. Additionally, OU's receiving corps is dealing with multiple injuries and will not be at full strength.

Oklahoma's defense has played pretty well so far, only giving up one rushing touchdown, but has yet to face a team as strong as the Longhorns. Texas ranks seventh nationally in points and total yards per game, and this offense has yet to take a hit despite the quarterback change.

Stats aside, both teams are fully aware that anything can happen in the Red River Rivalry. The Longhorns hold a commanding lead in this series (63-51-5), but the Sooners have won four of the last five meetings, including last season's 34-30 loss to then-No. 1-3 Texas. This season has already had some unexpected results. Will there be another one in the Cotton Bowl on Saturday afternoon?

All odds from BetMGM. Looking for college football tickets? Find them here.

The Pulse newsletter

Free, daily sports updates straight to your inbox.

Free, daily sports updates straight to your inbox.

Sign in

Odds #1 Texas vs. #18 Oklahoma

How to watch Texas vs. Oklahoma

• Venue: Cotton Bowl – Dallas
• Time: Saturday, 3:30 p.m. ET
• TV: ABC
• Streaming: Fubo (try for free)

Expert tips against the spread

More College Football Week 7 coverage

2024 College Football Playoff Predictions: What are Alabama's chances after Vandy's upset?

College Football Week 7: Oddly Specific Predictions: Texas and Ohio State survive upset threats

What are the most dangerous trap plays for college football's top 25 teams?

College Football Playoff stock prices: Texas A&M rises, USC falls after chaotic Week 6

(Photo by Ryan Wingo: Tim Warner/Getty Images)