Brent Venables

OU football head coach Brent Venables during game against Missouri on Nov. 9 at Faurot Field.

 Annie Davenport/OU Daily

Head coach Brent Venables officially announced the hires of Nate Dreiling and Wes Goodwin to the defensive staff on Saturday. 

"I have reflected on all facets of our program over the past several weeks," Venables said. "Since I was hired as head coach, we have carefully assembled the defensive personnel and scheme that is suited to compete at the highest level, and we've built a deep and talented roster ready for the moment. I have high expectations for our program and will do everything in my power to achieve our goals for our players. To that end, I will take over defensive play-calling responsibilities for the 2025 season." 

During Venables' first season as head coach, OU ranked 122nd nationally in total defense. In 2023, it moved up to 79th. In 2024, it became a top-25 defense. Venables will be taking the helm of the unit while assisted by the new additions to the staff. 

"Adding Nate and Wes to our team, with their extensive and diverse experience, simply adds to my expectations and excitement for our defensive unit," Venables said. "I'm energized by the prospect of getting back into play-calling and for the continued momentum I see us gaining with the strategic moves we're making on both sides of the ball."

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