Michael Hawkins Jr., a name that is increasingly familiar in the college football landscape, particularly among fans of the Oklahoma Sooners. Hawkins, a true freshman, has recently been named the new starting quarterback for the Sooners, replacing Jackson Arnold after a pivotal performance against Tennessee.
Hawkins' journey to this point is marked by an impressive high school career and a rich football legacy. He is the son of Michael Hawkins Sr., who played defensive back for the Oklahoma Sooners in 2002 under then-co-defensive coordinator Brent Venables. This family connection adds a special layer to Hawkins Jr.'s commitment to the Sooners, a decision he made back in April 2023.
High School Achievements
Before joining the Sooners, Hawkins Jr. had a stellar high school career, first at Allen High School and later at Frisco Emerson High School in Texas. At Allen, he played under former SMU head coach Chad Morris and was named the District 5-6A Offensive Newcomer of the Year after throwing for 2,007 yards and 20 touchdowns.
Hawkins Jr. later transferred to Frisco Emerson due to safety concerns and continued to excel. In his senior year, he threw for 2,024 passing yards and 21 touchdowns, while also rushing for 1,172 yards and 10 touchdowns, totaling 4,211 all-purpose yards for the season.
His high school achievements earned him several accolades, including being named the District 3-5A Division II Most Valuable Player, receiving Quarterback MVP honors at the 2023 Rivals Camp, and being recognized as a 2023 Elite 11 finalist.
College Debut and Impact
Hawkins Jr. enrolled at the University of Oklahoma in January 2024 and quickly made his mark. Following a disappointing performance by Jackson Arnold against Tennessee, Hawkins Jr. stepped in during the second half and provided a significant boost. He completed 11 of 18 passes for yards and threw one touchdown, while also rushing for 22 yards, helping the Sooners outscore the Volunteers 6-0 in the second half.
This performance prompted Coach Brent Venables to announce that Hawkins Jr. would take over as the starting quarterback for the upcoming game against Auburn. Venables believes Hawkins has "the right stuff" to be successful, highlighting his leadership and resilience.
Family Legacy and Coaching Influence
Hawkins Jr.'s decision to join the Sooners is deeply personal, given his father's history with the team. Michael Hawkins Sr. played for the Sooners during their successful 2002 season, which included winning the Big 12 South, the Big 12 Championship, and the Rose Bowl. This legacy is something Hawkins Jr. is keen to build upon while forging his own path.
Under the guidance of Coach Venables, Hawkins Jr. is in a supportive environment that encourages growth and development. Venables has emphasized the importance of leadership and resilience in his quarterbacks, qualities that Hawkins Jr. has already begun to demonstrate.
Future Prospects
As a dual-threat quarterback rated as the No. 3 dual-threat quarterback and No. 18 overall QB in the 2023 class, Hawkins Jr.'s potential is significant. His ability to navigate tough defenses and his adaptability on the field have already made him a focal point for Oklahoma’s offense.
While he has not yet received any major NCAA awards, his early performances suggest a strong potential for future recognition. With continued development and consistent performance, Hawkins Jr. is likely to be a name to watch in college football for years to come.
In conclusion, Michael Hawkins Jr. is not just a talented freshman quarterback but also a symbol of legacy and determination. As he leads the Oklahoma Sooners into their upcoming challenges, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how his career unfolds.
