Venables’ Unexpected Love Letter to LSU’s New QB
Oklahoma head coach Brent Venables is singing praises for LSU’s sophomore quarterback Michael Van Buren, who has stepped in after Garrett Nussmeier’s injury. Van Buren, once a 3-star recruit pursued by OU, transferred from Mississippi State and has now led the Tigers to victories over Arkansas and Western Kentucky, throwing for 647 yards, four touchdowns and rushing for another score. With minimal game tape to scout, Venables warns his defense to stay disciplined as they prepare for Saturday’s showdown in Norman.
In a stunning display of sportsmanship—or perhaps strategic flattery—Venables has turned into LSU’s PR department. By calling his opponent “a great talent,” he’s either setting the stage for a trap game or auditioning for Coach of the Year in the “Make Your Rival Feel Good” category. Fans are left to wonder if Venables is genuinely impressed or just trying to lull Van Buren into a false sense of gridiron security. Either way, it’s the rare moment when a coach’s pep talk to an adversary doubles as next week’s clickbait.
Black Friday Bargain: Sooners Snag Another Defensive Gem
On Black Friday, Oklahoma extended its recruiting hot streak by landing 3-star pass rusher Dane Bathurst, a 6-foot-3, 230-pound prospect from Carmel, Indiana. Bathurst, ranked No. 57 at linebacker by 247Sports and No. 53 as an edge rusher by Rivals, becomes the 25th verbal commitment for OU’s 2026 class and the 12th defensive pledge under Brent Venables. This addition follows the recent commitments of receiver Jayden Petit, running back Jonathan Hatton Jr., and defensive back Markel Ford, boosting OU’s recruiting class to No. 14 in the 247Sports composite rankings.
It appears the Oklahoma staff has taken “Black Friday deals” literally—loading up on unwrapped talent like bargain-bin shoppers at a big-box sale. One can almost hear scouts elbowing each other for the last box of 3-star rushers, coupon clippings in hand. Bathurst flips his commitment from Duke to OU faster than customers snatch up discounted flat-screen TVs. If Brent Venables keeps this up, next year’s class might come with free shipping and a two-year warranty.
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