Oklahoma fires Ben Arbuckle, Jason Witten; Witten to take over as interim OC

Oklahoma fires Ben Arbuckle, Jason Witten; Witten to take over as interim OC

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Oklahoma has fired offensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle, the school confirmed on Monday. The Sooners rank No. 111 among FBS teams in total offense with 336.9 yards per game, placing them second-to-last in the SEC. In its eight games thus far, Oklahoma has averaged 22 points per game, scoring just 10 points against Michigan and 13 against both No. 2 Georgia and No. 8 Kentucky. Tight ends coach Jason Witten will take over as Oklahoma’s interim OC and play-caller1.

Sooners head coach Brett Venables said in a statement, “I have decided to make a change at offensive coordinator. My responsibility is to the whole team and what I believe is best for us right now. We need a change.” Venables added, “I believe we still have meaningful opportunities ahead and a responsibility to maximize them. Our expectations remain high and our commitment to meeting them is unwavering.” Arbuckle, 31, was hired in December 2024 after Seth Littrell was fired, but the Sooners have struggled offensively despite his prior success at Washington State2.

Oklahoma’s Offensive Struggles

Oklahoma’s 336.9 yards per game ranks 111th in FBS, with the Sooners averaging 22 points per game through eight contests. Their 4-4 record includes a 42-25 loss to South Carolina, where they managed just three first-half points. The team’s offensive woes have been compounded by quarterback John Mateer’s performance. After throwing 27 touchdowns and 18 interceptions in 20 games at Oklahoma, Mateer has failed to meet expectations since transferring from Washington State, where he threw 29 touchdowns and 11 interceptions in 20242.

FINALLY! Oklahoma Fires Ben Arbuckle — Jason Witten Takes Over

Jason Witten to Lead Interim OC

Witten, a former Dallas Cowboys All-Pro tight end, is in his first year as Oklahoma’s tight ends coach after five years as a high school head coach. He will assume play-calling duties following Arbuckle’s dismissal. The Sooners’ remaining schedule includes games against No. 25 Florida, No. 12 Ole Miss, Texas A&M, and No. 19 Missouri. Venables’ decision to replace Arbuckle marks the fifth offensive coordinator in his tenure, following Jeff Lebby, Joe Jon Finley, Littrell, and Arbuckle1.

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