The University of Oklahoma has dismissed offensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle, head coach Brent Venables announced Monday, Nov. 2, 2026. Tight ends coach Jason Witten will assume play-calling duties for the remainder of the 2026 season.
The decision follows a 42-25 loss to South Carolina on Oct. 31. The Sooners trailed 28-10 at halftime and managed only three points through the first three quarters. This defeat left Oklahoma with a 4-4 overall record and a 2-3 mark in Southeastern Conference play. The offense was out-gained 307-71 in the first half. The team’s only touchdown was a pick-six by linebacker Kip Lewis.
Oklahoma Dismisses Arbuckle
Arbuckle, 31, struggled to stabilize the Sooners’ production. Oklahoma ranks 111th nationally in total offense at 336.9 yards per game. It sits 108th in scoring with 22 points per game. The rushing attack ranks 128th in the country with 106.8 yards per game. The unit is rated 105th in run-blocking by Pro Football Focus. Arbuckle took full responsibility for the performance. I own it. I’m not mad at any of those players. If I’m frustrated at anybody, it’s with myself because I didn’t have them ready to come out and play their A-game.
Venables: "This is an opportunity to ignite this football team the rest of this season… Every game is winnable… Jason (Witten) was incredibly eager and confident in the opportunity." #Sooners
Venables cited the need for a midseason adjustment in a university 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.
Brent Venables, Oklahoma head football coach
I want to thank Ben and all he contributed to us over the last two years. He is a fantastic coach, leader and teammate, and a great man. It didn't work like we all wanted it to, but I deeply appreciate the investment, love and passion he poured into our program. We wish his family nothing but the best. Venables
Witten Takes Over Play-Calling
Witten joined the Oklahoma staff in January 2026 and will lead the offensive staff immediately. He spent 17 seasons in the NFL and earned 11 Pro Bowl selections. He recorded 1,228 receptions for 13,046 yards and 74 touchdowns, ranking fourth in league history in receptions. Witten served as head coach at Liberty Christian School in Argyle, Texas, for five years. He led his 2023 and 2024 teams to state championships in the Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools. He finished with a 44-7 record over his final four seasons there.
Oklahoma has fired OC Ben Arbuckle, sources confirm to ESPN. CBS first reported his departure. pic.twitter.com/OtdbpCkn4N
Witten transformed the tight ends room after joining the Sooners. The group recorded only one receiving touchdown during the 2025 campaign. They have combined for five touchdowns through eight games this season. Rocky Beers has four of those, while Hayden Hansen has one. Beers leads SEC tight ends with four touchdown receptions. He ranks fifth nationally at the position with 55.8 receiving yards per game.
Beginning today, he will lead our offensive staff in preparing a clear and focused plan that gives our players the best opportunity to execute with confidence. Venables
Coaching Transition Challenges
Arbuckle arrived from Washington State on a contract worth $1.5 million per year through 2027. This is the second midseason coordinator change under Venables in three years. Seth Littrell was fired seven games into the 2024 season. Arbuckle arrived as a package deal with quarterback John Mateer. Mateer has thrown 27 touchdowns against 18 interceptions across 20 starts. He ranks 88th and 63rd nationally in passing efficiency.
Oklahoma faces a difficult final stretch against Florida, Ole Miss, Texas A&M, and Missouri. Venables holds a 36-24 overall record at Oklahoma. He must manage this transition while the Sooners prepare to play Florida next.
Oklahoma and offensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle are expected to part ways, sources tell @CBSSports pic.twitter.com/xY0APAeGqY
More on Ben Arbuckle
Venables' full quote on why he chose Jason Witten to be the interim OC: "You certainly look at the room. Who’s most capable to do so? He has tremendous trust and great relationships with both the players and the staff. I think that’s important from a leadership — if you want…