LIVE REPORT: MICHAEL HAWKINS JR. STEALS THE SHOW IN THE ARMED FORCES BOWL
Michael Hawkins Jr. is about to be a highlight reel sensation.
In a jaw-dropping moment during the first quarter of Friday’s Armed Forces Bowl, Hawkins showcased his dynamic playmaking ability. Facing a third-and-8, the Oklahoma quarterback rolled to his left, stopped abruptly to avoid a Navy defender, reversed direction, and used his legs to buy time. He then launched a pinpoint throw downfield to wide receiver Zion Kearney, who broke a tackle and dashed into the end zone for a spectacular 56-yard touchdown. The play extended Oklahoma’s lead to 14-0 and electrified the crowd.
In just one play, Hawkins covered nearly the entire field: taking the snap from the right hash, moving to the left 40-yard marker, and ultimately throwing from the right hash again.
Oklahoma Football’s official account aptly captured the moment:
“Catch ‘em if you can 🔄@mikehawkinsj x @ZionKearney2024”
Hawkins’ Rollercoaster 2024 Season
The freshman phenom from Dallas is getting his chance to shine once more as the starting quarterback for the Sooners. Hawkins initially stepped into the spotlight on September 28 against Auburn, replacing starter Jackson Arnold. He started three games before OU returned to Arnold on October 19, leaving Hawkins with limited playing time during the regular season.
But the tides shifted earlier this month when Arnold entered the transfer portal. With Hawkins leading the team in bowl preparation, Friday’s performance could be a glimpse of what’s to come for Oklahoma football.
The Battle for QB1 in 2025
As it stands, the 6-foot-1 Hawkins is set to remain in Norman, where he’ll compete for the starting job next season. His primary competition will come from John Mateer, an incoming transfer who followed new offensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle from Washington State. Arbuckle, one of the offseason’s most talked-about hires, brings a system designed to maximize athleticism at the quarterback position—something both Hawkins and Mateer excel at.
While Mateer enters as the presumed favorite, Hawkins’ explosive potential, showcased in plays like Friday’s, makes it clear he’ll be a formidable contender in the quarterback battle.
What’s Next for the Sooners?
With Hawkins’ talent on full display and Arbuckle’s fresh offensive philosophy, Oklahoma fans have plenty to be excited about heading into 2025. Whether Hawkins locks down the QB1 spot or pushes Mateer in the offseason, his future in Norman looks bright.
For now, the highlight of the Armed Forces Bowl is a reminder of Hawkins’ electrifying potential: a mix of athleticism, poise, and playmaking that could redefine the Sooners’ offense. Stay tuned—this story is far from over.
