Do the Oklahoma Sooners Have Coaching Changes Coming? Two-Deep Depth Chart Projection | SEC Rankings
As the Oklahoma Sooners prepare for their long-awaited transition into the Southeastern Conference (SEC), fans and analysts alike are wondering what changes lie ahead. One of the most pressing questions is whether the Sooners will make coaching changes that could significantly impact the team’s future success. With head coach Brent Venables at the helm, Oklahoma has undergone a transformation in both its culture and on-field performance since his arrival in 2022. But as the program steps into one of the most competitive conferences in college football, adjustments to the coaching staff may be necessary to match the increased level of competition.
This article will explore the likelihood of coaching changes within the Oklahoma program, focusing on potential shifts in staff, the two-deep depth chart projection, and how the Sooners could rank in the SEC once they officially make the move. We’ll also take a closer look at the Sooners’ prospects for 2024 and beyond, analyzing their strengths and areas of improvement while projecting their overall standing in the SEC rankings.
Coaching Changes: What’s in Store for the Sooners?
When Brent Venables took over as Oklahoma’s head coach in 2022, he inherited a team that had experienced a transition of its own, following Lincoln Riley’s departure to USC. Venables brought his renowned defensive acumen to the program, aiming to restore a defense that had been inconsistent under Riley. Early in his tenure, Venables faced the challenge of reshaping Oklahoma’s culture, particularly after the departure of a significant number of players to the transfer portal.
In Venables’ first two years, the Sooners have seen noticeable improvements on defense, particularly in 2023 when they made significant strides in tackling, turnovers, and pass defense. However, questions remain about the overall consistency of the defense, and the offense under offensive coordinator Jeff Lebby has faced some criticism for its lack of explosiveness at times. As the Sooners prepare for their entrance into the SEC, the coaching staff’s ability to adapt and evolve will be critical for success.
While Venables’ leadership is unlikely to be questioned, it’s worth considering whether some assistants could face changes as the program transitions into the SEC. Coaching adjustments are not uncommon, especially when moving into a new conference that presents a different level of competition. Let’s take a closer look at some areas where coaching changes could be considered.
1. Offensive Coordinator Jeff Lebby
Offensive coordinator Jeff Lebby is one of the more notable figures on the Oklahoma coaching staff. Hired by Venables to implement an up-tempo, high-scoring offense, Lebby had a successful stint as the offensive coordinator at Ole Miss before coming to Oklahoma. While the Sooners’ offense has had its moments, there have been concerns about its consistency, particularly in big games against top-tier defenses.
As the Sooners prepare to face SEC defenses, there will be a heightened focus on offensive balance, particularly in the running game, where Oklahoma has often struggled to dominate at the line of scrimmage. In the SEC, where defensive lines are often bigger, stronger, and faster, Oklahoma’s offensive scheme must evolve to keep up. This could mean additional responsibilities for Lebby, possibly a reworking of some offensive philosophies or, in the worst-case scenario, a shift in the offensive coordinator role if the unit fails to develop at the expected level.
2. Defensive Coordinator and Staff
Brent Venables has long been known for his defensive prowess, but he also has a history of assembling excellent defensive coaching staffs. The Sooners’ defense under Venables showed improvement in 2023, but it wasn’t yet the type of dominant unit that would be able to compete consistently in the SEC. With Oklahoma facing top-tier offenses like those of Alabama, Georgia, and LSU, the defensive staff must be able to make adjustments on the fly and keep pace with some of the nation’s most potent attacks.
There may be changes within the defensive staff in order to increase efficiency and adaptability. While Venables is known for being hands-on with the defense, he may also look to promote or hire an assistant who can bring new ideas to the table. If defensive issues persist, especially in pass coverage or against mobile quarterbacks, some shifts within the defensive coaching staff could be on the horizon.
3. Special Teams Coach and Other Position Coaches
As the Sooners transition to the SEC, the emphasis on special teams will grow significantly. Special teams often play a pivotal role in tight, high-stakes games, and teams in the SEC are known for their ability to execute in all three phases of the game. Oklahoma’s special teams have had their ups and downs over the past few seasons, so improvements in that area could lead to a shake-up in that position.
Furthermore, position coaches in various departments (offensive line, defensive backs, linebackers) may also face scrutiny depending on how the team fares in the competitive SEC landscape. If certain areas of the team underperform relative to expectations, Venables could make adjustments in coaching responsibilities to get the most out of the roster.
Two-Deep Depth Chart Projection for 2024
Looking ahead to the 2024 season and beyond, here is a two-deep depth chart projection for the Oklahoma Sooners. As the program transitions to the SEC, the competition will be stiffer, and depth will be more important than ever. Below is a projection for the two-deep depth chart that includes returning players, recruits, and potential key contributors who could play significant roles for the Sooners.
Offensive Projection:
Quarterback
- Starter: Dillon Gabriel (Sr.)
- Backup: Nick Evers (So.)
Oklahoma’s offense will once again rely on senior quarterback Dillon Gabriel, who has established himself as one of the top quarterbacks in college football. Gabriel, a dynamic playmaker with the ability to throw and run, will be the leader of the offense as Oklahoma enters its SEC campaign. Freshman Nick Evers provides a solid backup option, and his potential could see him take on a larger role as the season progresses.
Running Back
- Starter: Javontae Barnes (So.)
- Backup: Tawee Walker (Sr.)
The running back position will be crucial for Oklahoma’s success, especially when facing the stout defensive lines of the SEC. Sophomore Javontae Barnes is expected to take over as the feature back after a strong freshman campaign, while senior Tawee Walker brings valuable experience and depth.
Wide Receiver
- Starter: Andrew Anthony (Jr.)
- Backup: Jalil Farooq (So.)
Oklahoma has a talented and deep group of wide receivers. Junior Andrew Anthony is poised to have a breakout season as one of the primary targets for Gabriel. Sophomore Jalil Farooq will provide explosive plays in the passing game and could take on an expanded role.
Offensive Line
- Starters: Walter Rouse (OT), Anton Harrison (OG), Andrew Raym (C), Chris Murray (OG), Tyler Guyton (OT)
- Backups: Savion Byrd (OT), Jake Taylor (OG), Jacob Sexton (OT)
The offensive line is a key area of concern as Oklahoma transitions to the SEC. The Sooners will need to build chemistry and ensure they can protect Gabriel while opening up lanes for the running backs. With a combination of returning starters and young talent, the Sooners’ offensive line will have to prove itself against some of the best defensive lines in the country.
Defensive Projection:
Defensive Line
- Starters: Ethan Downs (DE), Jalen Redmond (DT), Jordan Kelley (DT), R Mason Thomas (DE)
- Backups: Kelvin Gilliam (DT), Clayton Smith (DE)
The defensive line will be vital for Oklahoma’s defense, especially as they prepare for SEC offenses that feature strong running games. Senior Ethan Downs and Jalen Redmond bring experience and leadership, while younger players like R Mason Thomas and Clayton Smith are poised to make an impact.
Linebackers
- Starters: Danny Stutsman (MLB), Kip Lewis (OLB)
- Backups: David Ugwoegbu (OLB), Gentry Williams (OLB)
Oklahoma’s linebacking corps will be one of the strengths of the defense, with the leadership of Danny Stutsman anchoring the middle. Sophomore Kip Lewis is expected to take on a larger role in 2024, and the Sooners’ depth at linebacker will help them remain competitive in the SEC.
Defensive Backs
- Starters: Woody Washington (CB), C.J. Coldon (CB), Key Lawrence (S), Billy Bowman (S)
- Backups: Gentry Williams (CB), Latrell McCutchin (CB)
Oklahoma’s defensive backfield will be a key focus in 2024, especially with the increased passing attack in the SEC. Senior cornerbacks Woody Washington and C.J. Coldon provide experience, while sophomores Key Lawrence and Billy Bowman will lead the safety positions. Depth in the secondary will be crucial for the Sooners, particularly against SEC teams that feature explosive passing attacks.
Projected SEC Ranking for Oklahoma
As Oklahoma prepares to enter the SEC, expectations will be high, but so will the challenges. While the Sooners are used to competing at a high level, the transition into one of the toughest conferences in the country will be a process. By 2024, Oklahoma could realistically be ranked in the middle tier of the SEC, competing for bowl games and a potential playoff berth. However, with continued growth and improvements in depth and coaching, the Sooners could challenge for SEC titles as early as 2025 or 2026.
Conclusion: Coaching Adjustments and the Road Ahead for Oklahoma
Oklahoma’s path to SEC success will require continued adjustments and growth, both from the players and the coaching staff. While Brent Venables has already shown he can lead the Sooners to greater heights, coaching changes—whether on the offensive or defensive side of the ball—are likely if the team struggles to compete at the highest level in the SEC.
With a strong recruiting class, improvements on both sides of the ball, and a solid coaching staff, Oklahoma has the potential to quickly establish itself as a serious contender in the SEC. The future is bright for the Sooners, and with the right changes and adjustments, the program could become one of the top teams in the conference for years to come.
