Oklahoma makes major change as Jason Witten takes over offense

Jason Witten. USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect

Oklahoma makes major change as Jason Witten takes over offense

By Andrew Wright | Last updated Nov 2, 2026 2:07 PM ET

It is no secret that the Oklahoma Sooners have struggled to get going offensively this season.

After nine weeks, the Sooners are 4-4 and rank in the bottom five of the SEC in nearly every offensive category. Those statistics caused a major move to be made Monday that includes a familiar name taking over an important role.

Oklahoma has fired offensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle

According to ESPN college football insider Pete Thamel, Oklahoma has fired its offensive coordinator, Ben Arbuckle.

Arbuckle was hired as the Sooners' offensive coordinator at the end of the 2024 season, meaning his tenure fell shy of two seasons. Arbuckle's job was in question after Saturday's loss to South Carolina. Despite saying he was the right man for the job, head coach Brent Venables didn't see it that way.

Oklahoma has fired OC Ben Arbuckle, sources confirm to ESPN. CBS first reported his departure. pic.twitter.com/OtdbpCkn4N
— Pete Thamel (@PeteThamel) November 2, 2026

Oklahoma offensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle asked why he should keep his job after the South Carolina loss pic.twitter.com/hn22GxB3Nb
— SEC Mike (@MichaelWBratton) November 1, 2026

Jason Witten will be taking over as play-caller for Oklahoma

With the departure of Arbuckle, Oklahoma has already reportedly decided who it will turn to as a replacement.

According to Sooners writer Matt Blackwell, it will be former Dallas Cowboys tight end Jason Witten who takes over play-calling duties. Witten was hired as the Sooners' tight ends coach ahead of this season, and he'll now take over as the offensive coordinator for the final four games this season.

Jason Witten will be the #Sooners offensive coordinator for the rest of the season, per our sources. Kevin Wilson will also be involved.
— Matt Blackwell (@mblackwell) November 2, 2026

Can the Sooners get things turned around?

Witten doesn't have an easy road ahead calling plays, as three of the final four games for Oklahoma will come against ranked opponents and some of the top defenses in the SEC.

It will be a chance, though, for Witten to showcase his abilities as a play-caller. If the Sooners can find success with Witten running the offense, he'll almost certainly be considered to take over the role full-time next season.

Andrew Wright

Andrew "Dew" Wright graduated from Charleston Southern University with a degree in Communication Studies. He is a lifelong Chicago Cubs and Washington Commanders fan.

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