There is no question that the Sooners struggled in 2022 under first-year head coach Brent Venables. Oklahoma finished the season 6-7 overall (3-6 Big 12), and it was their first losing season since 1998. That is unacceptable at the University of Oklahoma, and Venables knows that.
“If we just get better on defense, we’re going to win 10-plus games and have a chance to compete and hang a banner up at the end of the year,” Venables said.
That is obviously a big quote, especially considering that Oklahoma ranked 122nd in total defense last season. Kansas is the only team in the Big 12 that the Sooners finished ahead of in that category.
Five of Oklahoma’s losses last season were one-possession games that could have gone either way.
However, the Sooners’ schedule looks very favorable this season.
Oklahoma has one of the easiest non-conference schedules in the nation, and they avoid Kansas State and Baylor in conference play, two teams that have been a thorn in the Sooners’ side lately.
But, the coaching staff has done a great job in the transfer portal at getting some much-needed help on the defensive side of the ball, with additions such as:
Dasan McCullough (LB), Trace Ford (DL), Davon Sears (DL), Jacob Lacey (DL), Rondell Bothroyd (DL), and Reggie Pearson (S). All guys who will make an immediate impact.
Venables knows that the defense has to get better, and in a hurry. Although, don’t be surprised if the Sooners are back on top of the conference come November.
