ESPN REPORT: Oklahoma Sooners Football Head Coach Brent Venables Astounds College Football World, Turns Down Tennessee Vols, South Carolina’s Startling $87.4 Million OCC Offer to Stay with the Oklahoma Sooners “I Have No Plans Beyond Being the Oklahoma Sooners Head Coach…” Complete Details.

ESPN REPORT: Oklahoma Sooners Football Head Coach Brent Venables Astounds College Football World, Turns Down Tennessee Vols, South Carolina’s Startling $87.4 Million OCC Offer to Stay with the Oklahoma Sooners “I Have No Plans Beyond Being the Oklahoma Sooners Head Coach…” Complete Details…..

Norman, OK* — In a stunning show of loyalty rarely seen in today’s high-stakes college football world, Oklahoma Sooners head coach Brent Venables has turned down two massive offers from SEC rivals—including an eye-popping \$87.4 million proposal from South Carolina’s newly launched Organizational Coaching Coalition (OCC)to remain at the helm in Norman.

Venables, who took over the Sooners’ program in 2022, made it clear during a press conference that no amount of money or prestige could sway his dedication to Oklahoma.

“I have no plans beyond being the Oklahoma Sooners head coach,” Venables said in front of a packed room of media, boosters, and players. “This is where my heart is. This is where my mission lies. I didn’t come here to chase titles elsewhere. I came here to build champions in Crimson and Cream.”

The news comes after weeks of speculation that both the Tennessee Volunteers and South Carolina Gamecocks were aggressively courting Venables following back-to-back strong seasons for the Sooners. While Tennessee’s offer was said to be in the range of \$70 million, it was South Carolina’s groundbreaking \$87.4 million OCC-backed offer—including full control of football operations, enhanced NIL funding, and a 10-year guaranteed contract—that stunned the college football world.

Sources within Oklahoma’s athletic department confirmed that Venables never seriously entertained either offer.

“He didn’t flinch,” said Oklahoma athletic director Joe Castiglione. “In an era where coaches jump ship at the first sign of a bigger check, Brent stood firm. That tells you everything about his character and his commitment to this program.

Venables has made a significant impact in Norman since replacing Lincoln Riley, who departed for USC in 2021. After a rocky debut season, Venables reestablished Oklahoma’s defensive identity, revitalized recruiting, and led the team to a 10-win season in 2024, setting the stage for a major SEC run in 2025.

Fan reaction was swift and passionate. #LoyalVenables trended across social media platforms as Sooners fans praised their coach’s decision to stay. Former Oklahoma greats also weighed in, applauding Venables for choosing legacy over luxury.

For the players, the announcement was more than a relief—it was a motivator.

“Coach V is the real deal,” said star linebacker Danny Stutsman. “We trust him, we believe in what we’re building here. Now we know he’s all in—and so are we.”

While South Carolina and Tennessee will return to their drawing boards, Oklahoma emerges from the drama more united and determined than ever. With SEC competition looming and a loaded 2025 recruiting class, Venables’ reaffirmed presence provides both stability and momentum.

This program has a purpose,” Venables said. “We’re not just chasing trophies. We’re chasing greatness—and we’re going to do it together, right here in Norman.