3 Names Most Mentioned to Be Oklahoma’s Next Defensive Coordinator
As college football continues to evolve, coaching staffs across the nation are constantly under the microscope, particularly in programs like Oklahoma, where the expectations for success are as high as they come. The Sooners have long been one of the most successful programs in college football, but as they prepare for their long-anticipated move to the Southeastern Conference (SEC) in 2024, the pressure to succeed only intensifies.
Oklahoma’s defense, in particular, has faced its share of challenges in recent years. While the offense has consistently been high-powered under former head coach Lincoln Riley and current offensive coordinator Jeff Lebby, the defense has often struggled, particularly in big games and in the final moments of crucial matchups. Brent Venables, hired as head coach in 2022, is known for his defensive acumen and experience as a longtime coordinator at Clemson. However, despite his deep background on that side of the ball, there has been growing concern about the defense’s performance under his guidance, particularly as the Sooners prepare to face some of the most powerful offenses in the country in the SEC.
As the Sooners prepare for a new chapter in SEC football, the coaching staff, especially the defensive coordinator position, could be subject to significant changes. Although Venables holds the reins as the head coach, speculation surrounding potential changes to the defensive staff has begun to rise. Whether it’s due to underperformance or just the natural evolution of the program as it enters a new era, the potential for a change at defensive coordinator is an ongoing topic of conversation within Oklahoma football circles.
Here, we’ll explore three names that have emerged as potential candidates to become Oklahoma’s next defensive coordinator, looking at their experience, credentials, and how they might fit into Venables’ vision for the program.
1. Brent Venables (Current Defensive Coordinator/Head Coach)
While this may seem somewhat counterintuitive, the current head coach himself, Brent Venables, has consistently been mentioned as a key figure in discussions surrounding Oklahoma’s future defensive coaching landscape. Venables’ pedigree as one of the top defensive minds in college football speaks for itself. He spent 13 years as the defensive coordinator at Clemson, where he helped build one of the most dominant defenses in the country, culminating in national championships in 2016 and 2018. His work with the Tigers’ defense earned him widespread recognition, and Oklahoma fans were excited to see him bring that expertise to Norman when he was hired as head coach in 2022.
However, after two seasons at the helm, the defense at Oklahoma has not yet fully matched the elite level many expected. While the Sooners have shown flashes of defensive prowess, they’ve been inconsistent, often struggling to close out games and maintain control against high-powered offenses, which is an issue that will be exacerbated in the SEC. Venables has undoubtedly had success as a defensive coordinator, but as a head coach, the demands on his time and focus have naturally shifted toward managing all aspects of the program, including the offense, recruiting, and more.
There has been some speculation that Venables might look to bring in a fresh perspective or a new voice to run the defense more effectively. There’s also the possibility that Venables himself could take a more hands-on approach with the defense moving forward, either by making internal adjustments to the defensive staff or stepping in directly to oversee defensive operations. Given his track record, Venables remains a central figure in the conversation about Oklahoma’s defensive future. If the Sooners fail to reach the level of success expected, especially in the defensive department, a reevaluation of roles within the staff could lead to changes, including Venables potentially reassuming full control of the defense.
2. Ted Roof (Current Defensive Coordinator)
Ted Roof, who currently serves as Oklahoma’s defensive coordinator, has been under scrutiny since Brent Venables’ arrival in Norman. Roof was brought in as part of Venables’ staff with the hope that he would help transform Oklahoma’s defense into a more aggressive, disciplined unit, similar to what Venables accomplished at Clemson. Roof’s resume includes a long tenure of experience as a defensive coordinator at various programs, most notably Auburn, Georgia Tech, and Minnesota.
In his time at Oklahoma, Roof has overseen a defense that, while improving in some areas, has struggled in critical moments and has not consistently been a game-changer. Roof’s defense has often looked outmatched against top-tier offenses, particularly in games that have required a shutdown performance or a strong fourth-quarter effort. The Sooners have struggled to establish consistency, particularly against mobile quarterbacks and explosive offenses that dominate in the Big 12 and are expected to thrive in the SEC.
While Roof’s coaching experience and knowledge are undeniable, there is increasing speculation that he may not be the long-term solution at Oklahoma’s defensive helm. Some insiders have suggested that Roof could be a casualty of Oklahoma’s upcoming transition to the SEC, where the defensive level of play will be significantly higher. Venables, who is known for his defensive expertise, could be inclined to bring in someone with a more dynamic and modern defensive philosophy or someone with more experience against top-tier SEC offenses.
Roof’s status as a former head coach and his long history in coaching certainly makes him an asset to the program, but his current role could be up for review, especially if Oklahoma’s defense does not show consistent improvement heading into 2024. If Roof were to depart or transition to another role, Oklahoma would likely be in the market for a new defensive coordinator who can bring a fresh outlook and maximize the defense’s potential in the highly competitive SEC.
3. Jim Knowles (Defensive Coordinator, Ohio State)
One of the most intriguing names being discussed as a potential defensive coordinator for Oklahoma is Jim Knowles, the current defensive coordinator at Ohio State. Knowles is widely regarded as one of the top defensive minds in college football. Before arriving at Ohio State in 2022, Knowles turned Oklahoma State’s defense into one of the most formidable units in the Big 12, helping to elevate the Cowboys to national prominence. His aggressive, physical defensive schemes focused on pressuring the quarterback and forcing turnovers, principles that would mesh well with the culture Venables is trying to create at Oklahoma.
Knowles’ reputation for improving defenses and creating game-changing plays would make him an ideal candidate for the Sooners if they decide to part ways with Ted Roof. His defense at Ohio State, while not perfect, has been strong against some of the top offenses in the country, including those in the Big Ten and high-profile non-conference matchups. If Oklahoma wants to build a more consistent defense that can handle the elite offenses of the SEC, Knowles could be the answer.
While Knowles is currently entrenched at Ohio State, rumors have suggested that he could be enticed to return to the Big 12, especially with the opportunities that come with Oklahoma’s move to the SEC. Knowles is known for his ability to adjust to different styles of play and to prepare his players for the next level of competition, something that will be crucial as Oklahoma makes the leap into the SEC. Moreover, his familiarity with the Big 12 and the style of play in the region could allow him to hit the ground running.
Though it remains uncertain whether Knowles would leave Ohio State, especially given the Buckeyes’ continued success, the prospect of taking over a program like Oklahoma—poised to make a splash in the SEC—could be an attractive opportunity for him. If Oklahoma does make a change at defensive coordinator, Knowles would be a top-tier candidate with the ability to elevate the Sooners’ defense to the next level.
Conclusion: The Future of Oklahoma’s Defense
As Oklahoma prepares for the challenges of the SEC, the state of its defense will be one of the most critical areas to address. While the Sooners have a talented roster and coaching staff, there are legitimate concerns about the consistency and performance of their defense under Brent Venables and Ted Roof. Whether Venables chooses to take over defensive responsibilities, retain Roof, or bring in a fresh face like Jim Knowles, the defensive coordinator position is likely to be a focal point as Oklahoma strives to compete at the highest levels in the SEC.
While there is no guarantee that any one of these names will end up in the defensive coordinator role, the conversations surrounding these individuals demonstrate the evolving expectations and pressures facing Oklahoma football. As the Sooners move into a new era of college football, changes to the coaching staff—particularly on the defensive side of the ball—could be a key factor in their ability to thrive in the SEC and return to championship contention. Fans, recruits, and players alike will be keeping a close eye on any potential coaching moves, as the future of Oklahoma’s defense may ultimately define the program’s trajectory in the years to come.
