Oklahoma is making a change on offense.
After another rough outing in the Sooners’ 42-25 loss to South Carolina, the program moved on from offensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle on Monday and elevated tight ends coach Jason Witten to interim offensive coordinator. The shift came after Oklahoma managed only 118 yards of total offense through three quarters and had just three points to show for it.
Arbuckle arrived with a strong reputation from his time at Washington State, but that success never really translated in Norman. Oklahoma never settled into a clear offensive identity under his direction, and the unit struggled to find any real balance.
Witten now steps into the role in his first season coaching at the college level. He did have success as a high school head coach at Liberty Christian, and the Sooners will lean on both his background as a player and his experience on the sideline as they try to steady things on offense.
The University of Oklahoma announced the move late Monday afternoon, and Brent Venables made it clear the decision came from the top.
"I have decided to make a change at offensive coordinator. My responsibility is to the whole team and what I believe is best for us right now.
We need a change." I believe we still have meaningful opportunities ahead and a responsibility to maximize them.
Our expectations remain high, and our commitment to meeting them is unwavering." I want to thank Ben and all he contributed to us over the last two years.
He is a fantastic coach, leader and teammate, and a great man. It didn't work like we all wanted it to, but I deeply appreciate the investment, love and passion he poured into our program.
We wish his family nothing but the best." Coach Witten will serve as offensive coordinator and play-caller for the remainder of the season.
Beginning today, he will lead our offensive staff in preparing a clear and focused plan that gives our players the best opportunity to execute with confidence." My belief in the men in our locker room remains strong.
Our responsibility as coaches is to turn that belief into preparation and performance. They deserve our very best leadership.
That starts with me."
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