Sooners’ Arbuckle Prepares for First Red River Shootout as Offensive Coordinator

NORMAN, Okla. — Oklahoma offensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle is set to take part in his first Red River Shootout this Saturday as the Sooners face off against Texas at the Cotton Bowl. Growing up in Texas, Arbuckle has long felt the excitement of this storied rivalry, but he admits he’s never attended the game as a fan.

“I’ve never been to the game,” Arbuckle said. “But I know a lot about it from those around me. It’s everything that’s awesome about college football — the pride, the energy, the history, and the intensity.” Arbuckle, now 30, has coached in the region for years, and this opportunity is something he has cherished for a long time.

As the Sooners gear up for their October matchup with the Longhorns, Arbuckle emphasizes the need to find a balance between appreciation of the event and the critical task of winning. “We have to prepare and put our kids in a position to be successful,” Arbuckle stated. “All the festivities go out the window once the whistle blows.”

The Sooners are coming off a 44-0 win against Kent State, and while Arbuckle is excited, he also acknowledges the unique challenges presented by the Cotton Bowl atmosphere. “You can go from quiet to loud in the snap of a finger,” he said.

Oklahoma’s starting center Jake Maikkula, originally from Austin, has memories of the rivalry from afar. He expressed anticipatory excitement to experience the high-energy atmosphere firsthand this week: “The guys have told me it’s going to be loud and packed. I can’t wait to play in that atmosphere.”

Quarterback John Mateer, who might miss the game due to injury, has his own history with the rivalry after attending it as a fan in high school. “Every weekend it’s talked about everywhere. The competition and atmosphere are just amazing,” he said, reflecting on his past experience as a spectator.

Several players on the Sooners’ roster will also see Red River action for the first time, including receivers, linemen, and running backs. Arbuckle insists that while many may be new to this environment, they are prepared and focused on executing the game plan regardless of individual experiences.

“At the end of the day, it comes down to who executes best on the field,” Arbuckle commented, highlighting both the game’s significance and the focus necessary to succeed.

Looking ahead to Saturday’s game, Arbuckle conveyed eager emotions, emphasizing it is a special moment for players that they will carry with them the rest of their lives. “I’m excited for our players to be part of this tradition,” he concluded.