Brent Venables feels “very good” about the state of Oklahoma’s offensive line

As Oklahoma and Texas moving into the SEC, many want to know how the two teams stack up at the line of scrimmage. Especially the Sooners offensive line, potentially the team’s biggest outside question for the 2024 season. Coach Brent Venables it brings out five completely new ones, mixing with each other NCAA Transfer Portal imports and former depth players rising.

A program known for production on the offensive line, Venables has confidence in the position coach Bill Bedenbaugh largely. Some development needs to happen before the Aug. 30 season opener against Temple, but Venables likes the group of guys he has up front, at least on paper.

“We have a lot of experience,” Venables said at the SEC spring meetings in Destin. “I feel very, very good. We have great leadership there. We have very good skills there as well. I believe in the players and I believe in Coach Bedenbaugh and the rest of the offensive staff to develop chemistry and continuity and understanding and fundamentals and techniques with these guys. So, I like that group of guys.”

“Potential” is a word Venables used with the offensive line. At least three projected starters are expected to come off the transfer window this offseason. Jacob Sextona recruit originally signed under Lincoln Riley, figures to slot in at left tackle.

By ensuring unfamiliar faces become familiar with each other this summer, Venables believes the potential can be fulfilled.

“I think it’s a group that has tremendous potential,” Venables said. “Now, our commitment must be greater than the potential. In order for us to have a good season, we must have a good summer. I’m excited about it because I like people.”

With Jackson Arnold taking over at quarterback, Oklahoma’s biggest offensive key will be keeping the quarterback clean. Another area Venables must believe has a lot of potential, Arnold’s success will determine how the Sooners perform in 2024.

SEC or no SEC, there’s no better way to help a first-year starter than to keep opposing defensive lines off of him. Oklahoma has plenty of tools on the outside for Arnold to throw at, he just needs time to deliver.

Venables feels good about where the offensive line is at, even if he admits there is still work to be done.