Paul Finebaum: ‘Make-or-Break Year’ for Brent Venables at Oklahoma
As the 2025 college football season approaches, the pressure is mounting for Oklahoma head coach Brent Venables. ESPN analyst Paul Finebaum recently stated that this year is a “make-or-break” season for Venables, emphasizing that a program like Oklahoma cannot afford to endure multiple subpar seasons, especially while arch-rival Texas has made consecutive College Football Playoff appearances.
The Weight of Expectations at Oklahoma
The University of Oklahoma is synonymous with college football excellence. With seven national championships, 50 conference titles, and a rich history of producing NFL talent, the Sooners have long been considered one of the premier programs in the nation. However, the transition from Lincoln Riley to Brent Venables has not been seamless.
Venables, a defensive mastermind who built his reputation at Clemson, was brought in to restore Oklahoma’s defensive identity and maintain its offensive prowess. Yet, his first two seasons have been marked by inconsistency, leading to growing concerns among fans and analysts alike.
Finebaum’s Candid Assessment
Paul Finebaum, never one to shy away from bold statements, did not mince words when discussing Venables’ situation. “You can’t continue to have subpar seasons at a school like Oklahoma,” Finebaum said. “Especially while your biggest rival is in the playoff two years in a row.”
Finebaum’s comments underscore the intense rivalry between Oklahoma and Texas. The Longhorns’ resurgence under Steve Sarkisian, culminating in back-to-back playoff berths, has only heightened the scrutiny on Venables. The Sooners’ faithful expect their team to be perennial contenders, and watching Texas thrive has only added fuel to the fire.
Analyzing Venables’ Tenure So Far
Brent Venables took over in 2022 with high hopes. His defensive pedigree was expected to address Oklahoma’s glaring weaknesses, particularly on that side of the ball. However, the results have been mixed.
In his first season, the Sooners finished with a disappointing 6-7 record, including an embarrassing 49-0 loss to Texas in the Red River Showdown. The defense, which was supposed to be Venables’ forte, struggled mightily, ranking near the bottom of the Big 12 in several key statistical categories.
The 2023 season showed signs of improvement, with the Sooners finishing 9-4 and winning the Alamo Bowl. However, losses to key opponents, including another defeat to Texas, prevented Oklahoma from reaching the Big 12 Championship Game or the College Football Playoff.
The Stakes for 2025
As Oklahoma prepares to join the SEC in 2025, the stakes have never been higher. The SEC is widely regarded as the toughest conference in college football, and Oklahoma will face formidable competition week in and week out. For Venables, the transition to the SEC adds another layer of pressure.
Finebaum highlighted the challenges ahead, stating, “Joining the SEC means no easy games. Every week is a battle, and if Venables can’t turn things around this season, Oklahoma might start looking elsewhere.”
Key Areas for Improvement
For Venables to succeed, several key areas need immediate attention:
- Defensive Consistency: Venables must solidify the defense, which has been inconsistent at best. Improved tackling, better coverage schemes, and a stronger pass rush are essential.
- Quarterback Play: With Dillon Gabriel moving on, the Sooners need stability at the quarterback position. Whether it’s a returning player or a new recruit, the offense must be dynamic and efficient.
- Recruiting: Venables has done well on the recruiting trail, but he must continue to bring in top-tier talent, particularly as Oklahoma enters the SEC.
- Winning Big Games: Perhaps most importantly, Venables needs marquee wins. Beating Texas, competing for a conference title, and making a playoff run would go a long way in securing his future.
Conclusion
Paul Finebaum’s assertion that this is a “make-or-break” year for Brent Venables is not without merit. The expectations at Oklahoma are sky-high, and with Texas thriving, the pressure is even greater. Venables must deliver results in 2025, or his tenure could be short-lived.
As the season approaches, all eyes will be on Norman, Oklahoma. For Venables, this season represents an opportunity to silence the critics and prove that he is the right man to lead the Sooners into a new era. Failure to do so could mean the end of his time at one of college football’s most storied programs.