Brent Venables and Eli Drinkwitz share a rich coaching history that dates back several years, prior to their current head coaching roles. Although they will not directly compete in offensive playcalling during Saturday’s game between Oklahoma and Missouri, their previous encounters on the field hold significance. Venables, currently leading Oklahoma, will oversee the Sooners’ offense, while Drinkwitz has stepped back from calling plays for the Tigers after a challenging 2022 season.
Coaching Background of Venables and Drinkwitz
Venables and Drinkwitz faced off multiple times during their careers as coordinators. From 2016 to 2018, Drinkwitz served as the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach at North Carolina State, where he faced Venables, who held the position of defensive coordinator at Clemson.
Past Competition Highlights
- 2016 Season: NC State started the season strong at 4-1, including a notable win against Notre Dame.
- During their matchup at Clemson, NC State kept battling back, tying the game three times. They nearly clinched a victory but ultimately lost 26-36 in overtime, with the Tigers securing their undefeated record.
- 2017 Season: Drinkwitz’s offense showed improvement, outgaining Clemson 491-415, but succumbed to turnovers, losing 31-38.
- In their final meeting, Clemson dominated with a 41-7 victory, limiting NC State to 297 yards and forcing three turnovers.
Current Coaching Dynamics
Although Drinkwitz is no longer directly calling plays for Missouri, his influence remains evident. Under the new offensive leadership of Kirby Moore, the Tigers have experienced substantial success, sporting a record of 28-8 since the coaching change. Notably, Ahmad Hardy is currently the nation’s leading rusher, and Kevin Coleman ranks among the top receivers in the Southeastern Conference (SEC).
Conversely, Venables has revitalized the Sooners’ defensive identity since his return to Norman. This season, he has taken over as defensive coordinator, focusing on restoring the aggressive style that marked his earlier tenure with Oklahoma.
Game Day Expectations
This Saturday, as the Oklahoma Sooners host the Missouri Tigers, fans can anticipate an exciting matchup. The game is set to kick off at 11 a.m., with both coaches aiming to showcase their teams’ strengths. Drinkwitz appreciates Venables’ defensive strategies, remarking on the coach’s impact and aggressive style on the field.
