Oklahoma Parts Ways With Offensive Coordinator Ben Arbuckle
Oklahoma fired offensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle on November 2, a day after the Sooners’ 42-25 loss to South Carolina in Norman.
Oklahoma has dismissed Ben Arbuckle after the Sooners’ offense struggled in a 42-25 defeat to South Carolina. The team managed only three offensive points in the first half of the loss, which left Oklahoma 4-4 this season.
Arbuckle, 31, joined Oklahoma in 2024 from Washington State and brought quarterback John Mateer with him. The two had worked together there, but Oklahoma’s offense has been inconsistent. The Sooners rank 15th in the SEC in both total offense and scoring offense, despite touchdowns scored by the defense and special teams.
Oklahoma coach Brent Venables said after the game that the team had failed to find offensive rhythm in the first half. Arbuckle, in his final remarks as coordinator, expressed his belief in the players and university and said he wanted to deliver a strong product.
The departure continues turnover among Venables’ offensive staff. He dismissed Seth Littrell after a loss to South Carolina in 2024; Arbuckle is the second offensive coordinator Venables has let go. Assistant head coach for offense Kevin Wilson could handle play-calling on an interim basis, given his past experience as a coordinator.
Oklahoma faces Ole Miss, ranked No. 12, Missouri at No. 19 and Florida at No. 25 in the coming weeks. The Sooners are at risk of finishing with a losing record and missing a bowl game for the first time since 1998.