Oklahoma’s offensive struggles have put pressure on offensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle and offensive line coach Bill Bedenbaugh as the Sooners prepare for critical games against Mississippi State and South Carolina. Both matches are seen as pivotal for the coaching duo’s futures.
The Sooners, currently 3-3, are coming off a disappointing performance, scoring only 13 points against Kentucky, which has one of the weaker defenses in the SEC. Arbuckle accepted responsibility for the offense’s lackluster showing, which included four turnovers and just 346 total yards. “I take full responsibility for those (bad) plays,” Arbuckle stated. “Ultimately, I’m the one who calls the play out there.”
Concerns are mounting, particularly as the Sooners face a Mississippi State team struggling with its own star quarterback, Kamario Taylor, potentially sidelined. If the Sooners were to lose any of these games, it might prompt significant staff changes, a move Oklahoma has typically avoided mid-season.
There are precedents for mid-season coaching changes in Oklahoma’s recent history. In 2024, head coach Brent Venables replaced offensive coordinator Seth Littrell after a particularly poor stretch that saw the team score a combined 12 points in back-to-back losses. The current situation mirrors that, especially given the offense’s inability to score against subpar defenses.
While Arbuckle is under intense scrutiny, Bedenbaugh, who has been with the program for 13 and a half seasons, may have a stronger case for retention due to the numerous injuries affecting the offensive line. Arbuckle, however, faces pressure as the quarterbacks coach, especially with concerns over starting quarterback John Mateer’s performance. Mateer has struggled recently, including throwing a critical interception against Kentucky.
Despite Mateer’s challenges, Arbuckle announced that he will remain the starter, citing his preparation and potential to contribute positively. “We believe that John Mateer gives us the best chance to win,” Arbuckle asserted.
The Sooners have demonstrated some offensive promise, notably with running back Lloyd Avant, who showed his capabilities with an impressive performance against Texas. However, Arbuckle has been criticized for abandoning successful run plays in favor of a more passing-oriented game plan, which has led to increased pressure on Mateer.
Oklahoma also has assistant Kevin Wilson poised to take on a larger role should there be a need for changes in the coaching staff. Wilson, who has a strong background in offensive coaching both at Oklahoma and Ohio State, could appear as a candidate to step in for either Arbuckle or Bedenbaugh if the offense does not improve in the upcoming games.
