Paul Finebaum explains why Oklahoma extended Brent Venables before moving to the SEC

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Oklahoma sent Brent Venables to the SEC with another extension after signing him to a contract worth $46 million over the next six years. It’s a decision some have questioned, but Paul Finebaum can see the reasoning behind Norman.

Finebaum shared his take on Venables’ deal during “McElroy and Cubelic In The Morning” on Monday. To him, the Sooners gave an answer before anyone asked anything about him as a head coach, even if it’s possible to go back in the decade.

“I think Oklahoma felt he was the right guy and let’s not allow questions to be asked of him. I think they were very aware of what was going to happen today,” Finebaum said. “Listen, I think that’s a fair question. When Jimbo Fisher was fired and did you see the nearly $80 million he was paid? All the yelling and screaming – “How can you do this? What happens?’? I think what Joe Castiglione, who by the way has one of the biggest reputations in the industry as an athletic director, was saying is, “You know? I believe in him and we will put our money where our mouth is. We will not allow the questions to come.'”

“Let’s say Venables goes 8-4. You’re not going to ask that question again because it’s already been solved,” Finebaum said. “I think it was a preemptive move.”

Venables posted a 16-10 record in his two seasons at OU. That included a year-over-year improvement from 6-7 in 2022 to 10-3 in 2023. However, even though they won four more games, there are still some concerns about him and the program will deal with the move. in the Southeastern Conference, especially with him locked up up front.

However, Oklahoma has committed to the stability that comes with expansion. Castiglione and the Sooners seem more than satisfied with Venables’ work thus far and want to see it continue as it takes shape in their next era.

This deal could very well come back to bite Oklahoma. Also, it might not be as good. It all just depends on what happens next, including the results of this upcoming season.

For the time being, however, Finebaum sees faith in Venables. That led to this contract that they’re willing to deal with the long-term repercussions because of what he’s done up to this point.

“I think they really trust Venables,” Finebaum said.

“I also think, guys, that if they’re wrong and they have to pay? It’s just part of the cost of doing business,” Finebaum admitted. “Quite frankly, there’s so much money around that I think they felt the goodwill on the front end was worth the risk on the back end.”