Landing Jim Knowles Is a Tough Blow for Oklahoma, but It Won’t Determine Brent Venables’ Future in Norman

Oklahoma fans had their hopes set on landing veteran defensive coordinator Jim Knowles, but the Sooners ultimately missed out. While this is a setback for Brent Venables as he looks to solidify his staff heading into the SEC, it’s far from a death blow to his tenure in Norman.

The Need for a Proven Defensive Coordinator

Oklahoma’s defense showed significant improvement in 2023, but as they prepare for their first season in the SEC, Venables knew he needed an elite defensive mind to help the Sooners take the next step. Jim Knowles, who has built top-tier defenses at Oklahoma State and Ohio State, seemed like an ideal candidate. His aggressive, disruptive schemes have produced some of the nation’s best units, and his experience in big-time matchups would have been valuable as Oklahoma transitions to a tougher conference.

Reports surfaced that Oklahoma made a strong push for Knowles, but he ultimately decided to stay at Ohio State, leaving Venables searching for alternatives. It’s a tough loss, but it’s not the end of the world.

Venables’ Defensive Background Still Matters

One of the biggest reasons this doesn’t doom Venables’ tenure is simple: he’s still one of the best defensive minds in college football. While hiring Knowles would have helped, Oklahoma’s defense will still reflect Venables’ vision. He’s coached some of the best units in the country during his time at Clemson and has already made strides in rebuilding the Sooners’ defense.

If Venables continues to recruit at a high level and Oklahoma’s defense keeps improving, missing out on Knowles won’t be remembered as a defining moment.

The SEC Transition Looms Large

What will ultimately decide Venables’ fate in Norman isn’t whether he landed Knowles—it’s how Oklahoma performs in the SEC. The Sooners are about to face a significant increase in competition, and their ability to win in the trenches will be the true measuring stick.

Venables has already shown he can win big games, leading Oklahoma to a 10-win season in 2023 after a disappointing 6-7 campaign in his first year. If he can maintain that trajectory and Oklahoma proves competitive in the SEC, no one will be talking about the Knowles situation in a year or two.

What’s Next for Oklahoma?

With Knowles off the table, Venables and his staff will pivot to other candidates. There are still quality defensive coordinators available, and Venables has enough credibility to attract top-tier assistants. Whether he promotes from within or brings in someone new, Oklahoma’s defense will still be in good hands.

While missing on Knowles stings, Oklahoma’s future under Venables won’t be defined by this one hiring decision. The Sooners’ long-term success will come down to talent acquisition, player development, and execution on Saturdays—something Venables has proven he can handle.