The OU wrestling team comes into the season as the No. 2-ranked team in the nation.
The Sooners also come in as the second ranked team in the Big 12. Bedlam rival Oklahoma State is currently ranked No. 1.
"Over the last six years, we've had the third best performing school in the nation," head coach Jack Spates said. "Unfortunately, OSU has had the best. Are we in their shadow? Yes, but I'm proud of our program."
The Sooners have come close to the promised land before. Two out of the last three years, OU has placed third in the national championships.
"This is the most talented team we've had," Spates said. "We have great team leaders who lead by their words and by example."
OU has finished third, fifth and fourth the last three years at the Big 12 championships.
"We're working with great kids," Spates said. "To win a championship, you need a little bit of luck. All we can do is the best we can."
"I look up and down the weight classes, and I feel good about our chances," he said. "This year has a real opportunity to be something special."
The Big 12 is arguably the toughest conference for college wrestling led by defending champion, OSU.
"The Big 12 is always a great challenge," assistant coach Jeremy Spates said. "Michigan and Iowa, well, the Big 10 always has special teams too."
The Sooners will get their first opportunity to evaluate themselves at the Red-White scrimmage. The scrimmage is at 7 p.m. Thursday at the McCasland Field House.
"These kids have a great passion to improve," head coach Spates said. "They do not want to be denied, and they're great competitors."
The scrimmage gives the wrestlers a chance to make a name for themselves.
"We've had some scrappy battles in practice," head coach Spates said. "The preparation and focus has been there."
"Not everything is set in stone so it's a great opportunity for the guys to go out there and perform. I'm looking forward to it."
OU will begin its regular season Nov. 12 when they travel to Brockport, N.Y. for the Brockport/Oklahoma Gold Classic.
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