NORMAN, Okla. — The pressure on Oklahoma coach Brent Venables reached a critical level after the Sooners finished 6-7 last season.

He never wavered in his belief that he could turn things around and now, he likely has the Sooners headed to the College Football Playoff.

John Mateer threw a 58-yard touchdown pass to Isaiah Sategna with 4:16 left to overcome three interceptions, and No. 8 Oklahoma beat LSU 17-13 on Saturday night.

The Sooners (10-2, 6-2 Southeastern Conference, No. 8 CFP) are in position to host a first-round game after winning four straight.

“The narrative wasn’t always on their side, and they had to kind of fight through that as well," Venables said. “But to be able to share in this moment with them ... I just have so much appreciation, respect for our players and staff

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