Oklahoma Sooners Legend Bob Stoops Delivers Bold and Unwavering Endorsement of Brent Venables Taking Full Control of the Defense in 2025, Sending a Clear Message About the Future of OU Football
Few figures in Oklahoma Sooners history carry as much weight as Bob Stoops. The legendary coach, who guided OU to a national championship and cemented the program’s status as a perennial powerhouse, remains an influential voice in college football, especially when it comes to his alma mater.
So when Stoops recently made a strong, definitive statement regarding Brent Venables’ decision to take full control of the defense in 2025, it sent shockwaves through the Sooners’ fanbase and beyond. The statement wasn’t just a casual endorsement—it was a clear message about the direction of Oklahoma football as the program prepares for a new era in the SEC.
But what exactly did Stoops say? Why is Venables making this move now? And what does it mean for the Sooners as they prepare for one of the most challenging transitions in program history?
This article dives deep into Stoops’ comments, the history of Oklahoma’s defense under Venables, and why this decision could be a defining moment for the Sooners as they step into the SEC in 2025.
Bob Stoops and Brent Venables: A Legacy of Defensive Dominance
To fully understand the weight of Stoops’ endorsement, you have to go back to where it all began: the early 2000s, when Oklahoma had one of the most feared defenses in the country.
Stoops, a defensive-minded coach himself, made one of his best decisions when he hired Brent Venables as his defensive coordinator. Under Venables, Oklahoma’s defense became known for its aggression, speed, and relentless pursuit of the football.
From 2000 to 2011, Venables helped mold the Sooners into a defensive powerhouse. His defenses ranked in the top 10 nationally in multiple seasons, produced countless NFL draft picks, and played a crucial role in the Sooners’ 2000 national championship and several Big 12 titles.
When Venables left for Clemson in 2012, Oklahoma’s defense never quite regained that same dominance. Meanwhile, Venables went on to build one of the greatest defensive dynasties of the modern era at Clemson, winning two national championships and coaching multiple first-round draft picks.
His return to Oklahoma as head coach in 2022 was met with excitement, as fans hoped he would restore the defensive identity that had been lost over the years.
The Challenges of Venables’ First Two Seasons at Oklahoma
Venables inherited a tough situation when he took over in 2022. The Sooners were coming off an abrupt coaching change after Lincoln Riley’s departure to USC, and the defense had been in decline for years.
In his first season (2022), Oklahoma struggled defensively, finishing the year with one of the worst statistical defenses in the Power Five. The team went 6-7, an unacceptable record for a program with OU’s championship aspirations.
However, in 2023 and 2024, there were clear signs of improvement. The defense began showing flashes of the aggressive, disciplined style that defined Venables’ best units in the past. Oklahoma won double-digit games, but there were still moments where the defense failed to deliver in key situations.
As the 2025 season approaches, Venables has made a bold decision: he will take full control of the defense, calling plays himself instead of delegating to a defensive coordinator.
This is where Bob Stoops’ comments come in.
Bob Stoops’ Strong Endorsement: Why It Matters
Bob Stoops doesn’t make casual statements. His words carry immense weight in Oklahoma’s football circles, and when he speaks, people listen.
When asked about Venables’ decision to take over play-calling duties in 2025, Stoops didn’t hesitate in his response:
“If there’s anyone who knows how to build a dominant defense, it’s Brent Venables. There’s nobody more qualified, more passionate, and more capable of bringing back that aggressive Oklahoma style of defense than him. If he’s calling the shots, I have no doubt we’ll see a massive difference on that side of the ball.â€
Stoops’ statement wasn’t just an endorsement—it was a challenge to the doubters who have questioned whether Venables is the right man to lead Oklahoma into the SEC era.
His message was clear: Venables is the right coach, and with him calling the defense, Oklahoma is about to take a major step forward.
Why Is Venables Taking Over Play-Calling Now?
Venables has always been one of the best defensive minds in the game, but as a head coach, he initially chose to delegate play-calling duties to his defensive staff. This is a common move for head coaches, as they have to oversee the entire program.
However, after two seasons of mixed defensive results, it’s clear that Venables believes the best way to fix the defense is to take full control himself.
Here’s why this move makes sense:
1. His Track Record Speaks for Itself
Venables is one of the most accomplished defensive coordinators of the last two decades. At Clemson, his defenses consistently ranked in the top 5 nationally, won two national championships, and produced multiple first-round draft picks.
Simply put: he knows how to coach elite defenses. By calling the plays himself, he ensures that Oklahoma’s defense will be shaped by his expertise, not just his assistants’.
2. The SEC Requires Elite Defense
Oklahoma’s move to the SEC in 2025 is one of the biggest challenges the program has faced in modern history.
In the Big 12, offenses often dominated, and defense was sometimes an afterthought. In the SEC, elite defense is a requirement. If Oklahoma wants to compete with Georgia, Alabama, LSU, and Texas, it needs to have a dominant defense.
Venables taking over play-calling is a direct response to this challenge. He knows Oklahoma needs to be better defensively to survive in the physical, defense-first culture of the SEC.
3. More Accountability and Consistency
When a head coach calls plays, there’s no confusion about responsibility. Venables taking full control means that if the defense struggles, there’s no one else to blame.
This move ensures consistency, as Venables will be hands-on with game planning, adjustments, and execution. It’s a statement that he trusts himself to make the necessary fixes.
What This Means for Oklahoma’s 2025 Season
With Venables calling the defense, Oklahoma fans should expect to see a return to aggressive, high-energy defensive football.
Here’s what to watch for in 2025:
1. A More Attacking Defense
Venables is known for his exotic blitz packages, disguised coverages, and relentless pressure on quarterbacks. Expect Oklahoma’s defense to force more turnovers, create more sacks, and dictate the pace of games.
2. Faster Player Development
Venables has a proven track record of developing defensive talent. With him directly overseeing the defense, expect young players to develop more quickly and become impact players sooner.
3. A More Disciplined, SEC-Ready Team
SEC teams win championships with tough, physical defenses. This move signals that Oklahoma is embracing the SEC style and committing to building a team that can compete for national titles.
Final Thoughts: A Defining Moment for Oklahoma Football
Bob Stoops’ endorsement of Brent Venables taking over the defense in 2025 isn’t just words of encouragement—it’s a statement about the future of Oklahoma football.
• This is a pivotal moment for the Sooners.
• Venables is making a bold decision, one that could define his tenure.
• Oklahoma is preparing to face its toughest challenge yet in the SEC, and defense will be the key to success.
With Venables calling the defense, the Sooners are returning to their aggressive, hard-nosed roots—the same defensive DNA that made them great in the early 2000s.
If this move works, Oklahoma could be back in the national title conversation sooner than expected.
