On Dec. 2, Oklahoma made a significant move by hiring Washington State‘s Ben Arbuckle as its next offensive coordinator. This decision comes at a crucial time for the Sooners, who are looking to revamp their offensive strategy after facing challenges behind center during the 2024 campaign.
Fresh Impressions from Oklahoma’s Freshman Quarterback
Last week, Oklahoma freshman quarterback Michael Hawkins Jr. shared his initial thoughts on Arbuckle. “He’s a great guy, real person,” Hawkins said. “He can relate to you since he’s so young and has kind of really shown off his personality since he’s gotten here. So he’s a great guy to be around so far.” These words reflect the excitement surrounding Arbuckle’s arrival and hint at the positive impact he may have on the team dynamics.
Proven Track Record in Offense
Arbuckle’s credentials speak for themselves. During his two seasons as Washington State’s offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach, he made a remarkable impact. He was just 27 years old when he took on the role, making him the youngest primary coordinator in the Power 5 conferences at that time. Now at 29, Arbuckle continues to connect with players, bringing a youthful energy that resonates well in the locker room.
Impressive Offensive Statistics
Under Arbuckle’s guidance, Washington State finished the 2023 season ranked No. 12 nationally in scoring offense. They also achieved No. 9 in passing efficiency and No. 22 in total offense. These statistics are not just numbers; they reflect Arbuckle’s ability to develop a high-powered offense that can compete at the highest levels. His knack for mentoring quarterbacks is evident, as he has consistently produced elite talent.
Success with Quarterbacks
Take Cougars starting quarterback John Mateer, for example. He amassed an impressive 3,139 passing yards and 29 touchdowns while only throwing seven interceptions this past season. Not to mention, he was a dual threat, rushing for 826 yards and 15 touchdowns. The success of Mateer, a sophomore in his first season as a starter, showcases Arbuckle’s skill in nurturing young talent.
The Next Big Thing: Cam Ward
Who could forget about Cam Ward? The 2024 Heisman Trophy finalist was Washington State’s QB1 in 2023, and his success is a testament to Arbuckle’s coaching prowess. The ability to develop such high-caliber quarterbacks speaks volumes about Arbuckle’s tactical understanding of the game and his capacity to elevate players’ performances.
A New Opportunity for Mateer
In a twist of fate, Mateer has decided to follow Arbuckle to Oklahoma. On Dec. 18, he committed to the Sooners via the NCAA Transfer Portal, marking a significant addition to Oklahoma’s roster. This move not only strengthens the Sooners’ quarterback position but also illustrates the trust and rapport built between Arbuckle and his players.
Confidence from the Coaching Staff
Oklahoma head coach Brent Venables expressed his confidence in Arbuckle’s hiring. “I spent a lot of time — almost two months — looking at the best candidates in college football and got to watch; certainly you look at a lot of things,” Venables stated. His thorough approach included recommendations, discussions with colleagues, and a deep dive into game tape. “I love watching the tape, because that, to me, is the ultimate resume, and you get a feel for things.”
Analyzing the Analytics
Venables also emphasized the importance of analytics in the decision-making process. “There’s a lot of analytics that maybe support what you see, or maybe bring to light what you need to pay attention to — overall efficiency, explosiveness, first downs, third downs, red zone, points per possession… Ben continued to be at the top of the list.” This data-driven approach underscores the careful consideration that went into selecting Arbuckle as the new offensive coordinator.
A Bright Future Ahead for Oklahoma
With Arbuckle at the helm, Oklahoma is poised for a transformative season. His ability to connect with players, combined with his proven offensive strategies, sets the stage for an exciting new chapter in Sooners football. As the team prepares for the upcoming season, the anticipation is palpable. Can Arbuckle replicate his success at Washington State in the heart of Oklahoma? Fans and players alike are eager to find out.
In the world of college football, change can often lead to exciting opportunities. With the combination of Arbuckle’s innovative coaching style and the talent of players like Mateer, Oklahoma is on the brink of something special. The journey ahead promises to be thrilling, and the Sooners’ faithful are ready to rally behind their team as they embark on this new adventure.
