Brent Venables' Comments Spark Controversy with Big 12 Conference

Oklahoma Sooners head coach Brent Venables recently made remarks that have drawn criticism from the Big 12 Conference, which Oklahoma left in 2024 to join the Southeastern Conference (SEC). During a press conference, Venables stated, “This isn’t the old Big 12 days where Oklahoma destroys everybody every single week except one game of the year.” This comment was made following Oklahoma's struggles in the SEC, particularly after a 23-6 loss to the Texas Longhorns in the Red River Rivalry.

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The Big 12's official social media account quickly responded to Venables' comments, highlighting his record during his tenure in the Big 12. The account tweeted, “Coach Venables lost eight Conference games in his two seasons in the Big 12,” referencing his 3-6 record in 2022 and a 7-2 record in 2023. This pointed retort underscores the league's dissatisfaction with Venables' characterization of the Big 12, especially given Oklahoma's historical dominance in the conference prior to his coaching tenure.

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Since joining the SEC, Oklahoma has faced significant challenges. In their first season in 2024, the Sooners finished with a 6-7 overall record, including a disappointing 2-6 in conference play. Currently, in the 2025 season, they hold a 5-1 overall record but are 1-1 in SEC play. Venables acknowledged the heightened competition in the SEC, stating, “Every week there’s big, long, fast explosive dudes, great staffs. Really good quarterback play, tremendous lines of scrimmage.”

Brent Venables takes shot at Big 12 in defense of tight games against SEC teams

Oklahoma's football program has a storied history in the Big 12, winning 14 conference championships from 1996 to 2023. Venables, who served as the defensive coordinator under Bob Stoops during much of this successful period, was part of a program that dominated the league. However, his recent coaching record does not reflect that legacy, as he has struggled to replicate the same level of success.

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Critics argue that Venables' comments overlook the historical context of Oklahoma's performance in the Big 12. While he was not the head coach during the team's championship years, his remarks have been perceived as dismissive of the league's competitive landscape. Some commentators have pointed out that his assertion about the old Big 12 does not accurately reflect the reality of his coaching record, which has been marked by inconsistency.

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Looking ahead, Oklahoma faces a challenging schedule with upcoming games against ranked opponents, including No. 5 Ole Miss, No. 11 Tennessee, and No. 10 LSU. The outcome of these games will be crucial for the Sooners as they aim to establish themselves in the SEC and potentially contend for a conference title and a spot in the College Football Playoff.

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• “This isn't the old Big 12 days where Oklahoma destroys everybody every single week except one game of the year.” — Brent Venables, Head Coach, Oklahoma Sooners

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• “Coach Venables lost eight Conference games in his two seasons in the Big 12.” — Big 12 Conference Official Account

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In summary, Brent Venables' comments regarding the Big 12 have ignited a debate about Oklahoma's historical dominance and current challenges in the SEC, highlighting the complexities of transitioning between major college football conferences.

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