Oklahoma Sooners Eye Washington State’s Arbuckle for Offensive Coordinator Role

In a bid to revamp their offensive strategy, the Oklahoma Sooners are reportedly considering Ben Arbuckle, the current offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach at Washington State University, as a potential candidate for their open offensive coordinator position. This move comes after the dismissal of Seth Littrell, who previously held the role.

Arbuckle has been instrumental in Washington State’s offensive success, as demonstrated by their No. 19 passing offense and No. 42 rushing offense in the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) as of November 22, 2023. Under Arbuckle’s guidance and head coach Jake Dickert’s leadership, Washington State currently holds an 8-2 record and was recently ranked No. 25 in the College Football Playoff rankings.

The Sooners have had a challenging first season in the Southeastern Conference (SEC), currently standing at a 5-5 record with games remaining against Alabama and LSU. Oklahoma aims to improve their offensive performance and sources, including former Sooners’ offensive lineman Gabe Ikard, suggest that Arbuckle is a leading contender to fill the offensive coordinator vacancy.

Ryan Chapman from Oklahoma Sooners on Sports Illustrated has also highlighted Arbuckle as one of the «premier candidates» in Oklahoma’s search for a new play caller. Arbuckle, who was a multi-sport athlete at Canadian High School in Hemphill County, Texas, went on to play for West Texas A&M University, earning a dual degree in Finance and Economics in 2018.

After completing his education, Arbuckle embarked on a coaching career that began at Houston Christian University, formerly known as Houston Baptist, in a quality control position. He briefly served as offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach at Seminole High School before joining Western Kentucky University under Zach Kittley, currently working as Texas Tech‘s offensive coordinator.

As the Sooners contemplate the future of their coaching staff, university officials continue to express confidence in head coach Brent Venables, despite speculation about his job security. Venables, with an overall record of 20-14, was granted a six-year contract extension worth $51.6 million in June 2023. Following a recent university Board of Regents meeting, athletic director Joe Castiglione affirmed, «We truly believe in Coach Venables and our team,» emphasizing the importance of stability during this transitional period.

According to The Oklahoman and the USA TODAY Network, Venables’ contract buyout following the 2024 season stands at nearly $44.8 million, discouraging speculations of an immediate departure. The Sooners administration remains committed to supporting Venables and addressing the team’s challenges as they prepare for the upcoming seasons.