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Brent Venables improving Oklahoma defense ahead of 2026 season

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 31, 2026, 10:02 AM

Last updated Jul 31, 2026

Brent Venables improving Oklahoma defense ahead of 2026 season
Summary

Oklahoma Sooners head coach Brent Venables is being praised for enhancing the team's defense and special teams. Since his arrival, the Sooners’ defense improved from 122nd to 6th nationally, and special teams climbed from 127th to 10th over the past four years. Venables is now focused on improving an offense that struggled in recent seasons, ranking 92nd last year. Experts believe he will successfully make adjustments to strengthen this area as well. The team's ability to compete for an SEC title in 2026 may hinge on this improvement.

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Key Details
  • •Venables took Oklahoma's defense from 122nd to 6th nationally.
  • •Special teams saw a rise from 127th to 10th under his guidance.
  • •Offense ranked 92nd last season, needing significant improvement.
  • •Experts are optimistic about offensive adjustments before the season.
  • •Oklahoma aims for SEC contention in the upcoming season.
Latest Updates
  • 10:02 AMYahoo Sports — Brent Venables labeled a 'fixer' ahead of 2026 season
What they're saying
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Brent Venables is earning praise for consistently fixing Oklahoma's biggest weaknesses.

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