During Lincoln Riley’s tenure, recruiting standout talents like Kyler Murray and Spencer Rattler became a routine for the Oklahoma Sooners. However, it seems like it’s been a considerable stretch since they had a former 5-star recruit taking the helm at quarterback. Interestingly, it has only been two years—precisely—since Caleb Williams’ last start as the Sooners’ quarterback in the Alamo Bowl.
Despite it being only two years since Caleb Williams’ last start, there’s a sentiment that it has felt like a more extended period. With Brent Venables and the new offensive coordinator eagerly anticipating the performance of the Gatorade National High School Player of the Year in the Alamo Bowl against Arizona, Jackson Arnold is set to take over as the starting quarterback, replacing Dillon Gabriel. Gabriel, seen somewhat as a placeholder, provided stability for the 2022 and 2023 seasons, allowing the team to find its next star quarterback. Now, with Gabriel moving on to Oregon, the stage is set for Arnold to spread his wings and make his mark.
The dawn of the Jackson Arnold era at Oklahoma has arrived, signaling a new chapter for the team. Coach Littrell expressed enthusiasm about this shift, highlighting Arnold’s outstanding qualities as a young man and his relentless work ethic. Despite not starting in most games this year, Arnold is poised to dedicate the necessary time and effort to prepare diligently each week. Littrell emphasized the significance of both of them experiencing their first start together, anticipating an incredible journey ahead and emphasizing that there’s no one better to share this moment with.
Brent Venables expressed high expectations for Jackson Arnold, emphasizing his long-standing connection with the game that seems almost innate. Venables highlighted Arnold’s qualities in poise, composure, leadership, and maturity, anticipating significant contributions in these aspects. He shared an anecdote about his earlier perception of what a quarterback should be, noting his initial belief that they should embody a rah-rah, emotional style similar to a middle linebacker. However, Venables has evolved in his thinking, citing his experience coaching Sam Bradford on the scout team. Bradford, who later became the No. 1 pick in the draft, taught Venables the value of embracing a quarterback’s unique style, recognizing that sometimes “his way is better.”
Venables provided further insight into Jackson Arnold’s attributes, describing him as a cerebral player who maintains consistency and a positive demeanor every day. Arnold, despite being highly recruited and well-regarded, demonstrates no sense of entitlement. Venables commended Arnold’s instincts, highlighting his poise, pocket presence, patience, trust in his teammates, and the ability to make anticipatory throws. As the backup to Dillon Gabriel, Arnold may have had occasional subpar practices, but Venables noted a significant improvement during his month-long transition to the starting role. Arnold has shown resilience, quickly recovering from bad plays or series, demonstrating an ability to regain composure and not allow setbacks to have a lasting impact on his performance.