College Football2 hours ago2 minute read

Oklahoma Changes Offense Ahead of Florida Matchup

Oklahoma coach Brent Venables has turned the offense over to Jason Witten after firing Ben Arbuckle ahead of Saturday's game against Florida.

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Coaching change in Norman

Oklahoma head coach Brent Venables is looking for quick improvements after firing second year offensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle. The decision followed a 42-25 home loss to South Carolina. In that game, Oklahoma generated just 118 total yards and no offensive touchdowns across the first three quarters.

Venables explained that he wants the team to score points by any means available. He mentioned that the offense must put pressure on opposing defenses and protect the football.

Offense struggles and stats

The Sooners enter Saturday's game against 25th ranked Florida with a 4-4 record, including 2-3 in SEC play. The offense has regressed since reaching the College Football Playoff last year. Oklahoma ranks 111th out of 138 FBS teams with 336.9 total yards per game, and 108th with 22.0 points per game. Those numbers are lower than last season, when the team averaged 354.3 yards and 26.2 points per game.

Venables noted that the team leads the world in turnover margin on the wrong side. He added that better and more consistent quarterback play is necessary.

Witten takes over play calling

With the coordinator position changing, Venables said every player has a fresh slate. Transfer quarterback John Mateer came from Washington State with Arbuckle before last season. However, junior Whitt Newbauer and freshman Bowe Bentley have also taken reps in practice this week. Washington State ranked sixth nationally in 2024 by averaging 36.6 points and 442.8 yards per game under Arbuckle and Mateer.

Jason Witten now takes over play calling duties. Witten was hired in January as tight ends coach after posting a 44-7 record and winning two state titles at Liberty Christian in Texas. He also spent 17 seasons in the NFL as an 11 time Pro Bowl tight end, playing all but one year with the Dallas Cowboys.

What it means for the next game

Oklahoma Sooners at Florida Gators (College Football, Sun, 08 Nov): Florida Gators win 67%, Oklahoma Sooners win 33%; projected score Florida Gators 26, Oklahoma Sooners 19. Our safest pick: Florida to win.

Florida Gators at Kentucky Wildcats (College Football, Sat, 14 Nov): Kentucky Wildcats win 76%, Florida Gators win 24%; projected score Kentucky Wildcats 35, Florida Gators 24. Our safest pick: Kentucky to win.