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NORMAN — Oklahoma is targeting Nate Dreiling for a role on Brent Venables’ staff, On3 and SoonerScoop reported on Friday.
Dreiling, who was previously Utah State’s interim coach and defensive coordinator, was named the defensive coordinator at Arkansas State on Jan. 3. It’s expected Venables will call the Sooners’ defense in 2025 and Dreiling would coach the inside linebackers.
Dreiling, who also has defensive playcalling experience at New Mexico State and Pittsburg State, stepped in to lead Utah State this past season following Blake Anderson’s firing. Utah State’s defense tied for 127th in scoring defense and ranked 129th in total defense and 127th rush defense.
He is a former linebacker and has coached at a plethora of stops throughout his 10-year career. He helped New Mexico State to consecutive bowl games, along with an appearance in the Conference USA championship game in its first season in the league in 2023.
More: OU football OC Ben Arbuckle’s three-year contract approved by Board of Regents
Nov 9, 2024; Pullman, Washington, USA; Utah State Aggies head coach Nate Dreiling looks on against the Washington State Cougars in the first half at Gesa Field at Martin Stadium. Mandatory Credit: James Snook-Imagn Images
OU’s former defensive coordinator and linebackers coach, Zac Alley, departed for West Virginia after one season. OU’s defense ranked No. 19 in total defense this past season.
Dreiling has a reputation of making an immediate impact as a leader and getting the most out of his players.
The Sooners return strong production defensively next season, as star defensive end R Mason Thomas and defensive back Robert Spears-Jennings will be back. Linebackers Kip Lewis and Samuel Omosigho also return, as well as defensive lineman Damonic Williams and defensive back Peyton Bowen.
OU has also had success landing defensive…
Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/ou-football-set-hire-nate-152235263.html
Author : The Oklahoman
Publish date : 2025-01-31 15:22:00
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