“Ben Arbuckle Gets New Deal: Oklahoma’s New OC Signs Three-Year Contract Worth $1.5 Million Annually” ²

Ben Arbuckle Gets New Deal: Oklahoma’s New OC Signs Three-Year Contract Worth $1.5 Million Annually

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NORMAN, OK — June 7, 2025

In a bold and strategic move that signals a new era for Sooners football, the University of Oklahoma officially announced

today the hiring of Ben Arbuckle as its new offensive coordinator. The 29-year-old coaching prodigy signed a three-year contract worth $1.5 million per year, making him one of the highest-paid coordinators in college football — and perhaps the youngest at that pay scale.

Arbuckle’s rise has been meteoric. Just a few years ago, he was working as a quality control assistant at West Virginia before quickly ascending to quarterback coach and then offensive coordinator at Washington State, where his Air Raid-inspired offense drew national attention. Under his direction, the Cougars posted a top-15 offense nationally, revitalizing their program and making Arbuckle one of the hottest names in coaching.

Oklahoma, coming off a turbulent offensive season and preparing for its inaugural year in the SEC, is betting big on innovation and youth.

A Vision for the Future

“I’m beyond excited to join the University of Oklahoma,” Arbuckle said at his introductory press conference, grinning behind a crimson and cream podium. “This is a program with a storied history, but more importantly, it has the resources, talent, and vision to be elite again. I’m here to bring energy, creativity, and a relentless pace to this offense.”

Head coach Brent Venables, who is entering a crucial year in his tenure, praised Arbuckle’s mind and leadership.

“Ben is one of the brightest offensive minds in the country,” Venables said. “He’s got a knack for developing quarterbacks and making the most of the pieces he has. Our fans are going to love what they see on the field.”

Big Expectations, Bigger Stage

Arbuckle’s offense will be tasked with rebuilding Oklahoma’s identity — one that once struck fear into defenses during the Lincoln Riley era but has lost its bite in recent seasons. With quarterback talent in the pipeline and a fanbase hungry for points, Arbuckle’s system — a modern blend of tempo, spacing, and quarterback freedom — promises excitement.

Insiders say Arbuckle had multiple offers on the table, including overtures from both NFL teams and other Power Five programs. But the chance to call plays in front of 85,000 fans at Gaylord Family-Oklahoma Memorial Stadium — and to help reshape a program in transition — proved irresistible.

The Arbuckle Effect

While it’s too early to predict wins and losses, one thing is clear: Oklahoma is all-in on Ben Arbuckle. The $4.5 million total commitment shows that the Sooners are not just investing in a playbook — they’re investing in a philosophy.

Recruiters are already reporting a noticeable buzz among offensive prospects. “Kids want to play in that system,” one assistant coach said. “It’s fun, it’s fast, and it’s built for the modern game.”

As summer workouts begin and fall camp looms, all eyes in Norman — and across the college football world — will be on Arbuckle and his new-look offense. Whether he can deliver will determine not only the trajectory of the Sooners in the SEC, but also his place among the next generation of elite head coaches.

But for now, one thing is certain: Ben Arbuckle is ready for the spotlight.

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Reported by ChatGPT Sports. All rights reserved.