OU Football Coach Brent Venables breaks down Auburn matchup: 5 key takeaways ahead of Saturday

OU head coach Brent Venables outlined the key areas of focus for OU ahead of their Saturday showdown against the Auburn Tigers in Norman. Auburn makes its first trip to Norman, bringing a balanced and efficient offense that Venables says will challenge the Sooners on both sides of the ball.

Want to watch Venables' full press conference for Sept. 16, 2025? CLICK HERE.

Here are five key takeaways from his press conference:

1. Auburn’s Balanced Offense With Jackson Arnold

Venables stressed the threat Auburn poses in both the running and passing game.

“Auburn has had a lot of success in the lines of scrimmage. They ranked in both the top 20 on rushing offense and rushing defense. They’ve rushed for 10 touchdowns and have not allowed a rushing touchdown yet this year.”

He also highlighted the efficiency of Auburn quarterback Jackson Arnold, who is completing 70% of his passes and has already thrown for multiple touchdowns with no interceptions.

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2. Key Offensive Playmakers to Watch

Venables singled out Auburn’s wide receivers, Eric Singleton and Cam Coleman.

“Singleton is a new addition, obviously came from Georgia Tech and is a really explosive playmaker. Coleman is elite. He’s got great length to him, super instinctive, and can go up and get the football. That’s a big challenge for us.”

The Sooners’ defense will need to account for both perimeter and inside running threats, as well as explosive plays in the passing game.

3. Defensive Fundamentals Are Crucial

Venables shared how improving fundamentals has strengthened OU’s defense this season.

“We got better when our guys started understanding defense, tracking angles… The hardest, most challenging part of tackling is closing space… The more intelligent we got, the more that we developed the fundamentals.”

He praised the growth of younger players and the overall discipline in tackling and coverage, citing improvements in aggression and confidence.

4. Offensive Line Depth and Troy Everett Update

Venables highlighted the development and depth of the Sooners’ offensive line, particularly on the interior, while also addressing Troy Everett’s status.

“Yeah, yeah, Phil… not many teams are going to have three or four centers, so we’ve got a good plan. Troy had a season-ending injury… really tough for him, but he’s a great leader and he’ll find another way to use his leadership qualities to help us. The improvement you see across the line comes from hard work, consistency, and attention to detail. That’s the kind of development that gives us confidence going into games.”

Venables reassured fans that despite Everett’s injury, OU’s interior line remains prepared and capable of maintaining strong execution throughout the game.

5. R. Mason Thomas Suspension

Venables confirmed that R Mason Thomas will be suspended in the first half against Auburn due to a targeting penalty. Others, like PJ Adebawore will have to step up in his absence.

“PJ is a much different player than he was a year ago. He’s battled through some injuries and has developed a strong, consistent process. He missed the first game against Auburn, but he’s ready now. We can lean on him to be a disruptive, physical presence up front. His best days are still ahead, and he’s the kind of guy who can elevate everyone around him when he’s on the field.”