Oklahoma football is making waves in the coaching world with some exciting new hires. The Sooners have recently welcomed former Arkansas State defensive coordinator Nate Dreiling as their inside linebackers coach. Alongside him, ex-Clemson defensive coordinator Wes Goodwin joins as the assistant linebackers/outside linebackers coach. This strategic move aims to bolster the Sooners’ defensive prowess as they look to bounce back from recent struggles.
Nate Dreiling: A Proven Leader on Defense
Nate Dreiling isn’t just any coach; he brings a wealth of experience and a track record of success. A four-time All-American linebacker at Pittsburg State, Dreiling was named the NCAA Division II Defensive Player of the Year in 2011 and played a pivotal role in leading the Gorillas to a national championship. His coaching journey spans over a decade, including five years as a defensive coordinator, where he has earned a reputation for developing disciplined and high-effort defensive units.
Before his time at Arkansas State, Dreiling served as interim head coach and defensive coordinator at Utah State, as well as holding the same role at New Mexico State. His extensive coaching resume also includes stints at Kansas, Pitt State, Oregon, and Southeast Missouri State. With such a diverse background, Dreiling is well-equipped to enhance Oklahoma’s defensive strategy.
Wes Goodwin: A Tactical Mind
Joining Dreiling is Wes Goodwin, a name that carries significant weight in the college football coaching community. Previously the defensive coordinator at Clemson, Goodwin has a keen eye for detail that sets him apart. He worked under Brent Venables at Clemson, initially as a defensive analyst before taking over as DC in 2022. Although his tenure at Clemson ended after a dip in defensive performance, Goodwin’s ability to analyze formations and recall plays in real time is highly regarded.
Goodwin’s coaching experience also includes a stint as an assistant to the head coach for the Arizona Cardinals, showcasing his versatility across different levels of football. With a Master’s degree from Mississippi State, he brings both academic and practical knowledge to the Sooners’ coaching staff.
Brent Venables: A New Era of Defense
As the Sooners gear up for the upcoming season, head coach Brent Venables is stepping into a more prominent role by taking over defensive play-calling duties. This change comes after Zac Alley left for West Virginia, creating an opportunity for Venables to implement his vision for the defense. With the addition of Dreiling and Goodwin, the Sooners now have a formidable coaching staff that boasts four members who have previously served as defensive coordinators: Venables, Goodwin, Dreiling, and Brandon Hall.
This influx of experienced defensive minds is crucial for Oklahoma, especially after facing losing seasons in 2022 and 2024. The program is clearly focused on strengthening its defense, and these hires reflect a commitment to that goal.
A Focus on Improvement
The Sooners’ defensive struggles in recent years have been a point of concern for fans and analysts alike. With the hiring of Dreiling and Goodwin, Oklahoma is signaling a clear intention to turn things around. The combination of Dreiling’s proven track record in developing disciplined defenses and Goodwin’s tactical acumen could be the recipe for success that the Sooners desperately need.
Moreover, the program is not just focusing on defense. Oklahoma has also made moves on the offensive side by hiring Ben Arbuckle as the new offensive coordinator. This dual approach of enhancing both sides of the ball is essential for the Sooners to regain their status as a powerhouse in college football.
Building a Competitive Future
As Oklahoma prepares for the upcoming season, the excitement surrounding these coaching changes is palpable. Fans are eager to see how Dreiling and Goodwin will impact the team’s performance on the field. The combination of their experience and Venables’ leadership could lead to a significant turnaround for the Sooners.
The college football landscape is always evolving, and Oklahoma is positioning itself to be a competitive force once again. With a renewed focus on defense and a commitment to excellence, the Sooners are ready to tackle the challenges ahead.
In the world of college football, change is often the catalyst for success. As Oklahoma embraces this new chapter, one can only wonder: will these strategic hires lead to a resurgence for the Sooners? Only time will tell, but the signs are certainly pointing in a promising direction.
