In recent weeks, OU quarterback Jackson Arnold has undoubtedly faced some challenges. After a standout debut in which he threw four touchdowns, becoming the first Sooner to achieve this in a home opener since Josh Heupel in 1999, things took a difficult turn. Arnold’s struggles became evident after committing three first-half turnovers against then-No. 6 Tennessee. Following that game, Michael Hawkins Jr. stepped in, helping an injury-plagued offense secure a road victory over Auburn last weekend.
Despite the adversity, OU head coach Brent Venables remains confident in Arnold’s abilities, as he’s reiterated since the Tennessee game. Venables acknowledges the tough situation but commends Arnold’s resilience and mindset.
“He’s handled things great,” Venables said in a post-practice media session on Wednesday. “He’s worked hard to stay ready, and he’s taken this experience in stride. For a second-year player, he’s shown incredible maturity, even though it’s understandable he’s likely disappointed.”
Arnold, a former five-star recruit, has previously served as a backup at Oklahoma, waiting his turn behind Dillon Gabriel. During his time as a backup, Arnold impressed in limited action, completing all 11 of his passes for 114 yards and a touchdown against Arkansas State. He also ran specific packages for OU and led the team to a win over BYU after Gabriel was injured.
Although Arnold couldn’t preserve his redshirt and entered this season as the starting quarterback following Gabriel’s transfer to Oregon, he now finds himself back on the bench. Mentally, such a shift can be challenging, but Venables believes Arnold will emerge stronger from this experience.
“I think he’s got the maturity to say, ‘I’m going to be better from this,’” Venables said. “We try to give our players examples of others who’ve faced similar challenges. That’s part of the game and life—navigating tough times.”
Hawkins, who has injected life into OU’s offense amidst numerous injuries, impressed against Auburn, recording the team’s longest run and pass of the season with a 48-yard touchdown run and a 60-yard pass to JJ Hester.
Despite the change in roles, Hawkins emphasized that his relationship with Arnold remains unchanged.
“We’ve kept the same relationship,” Hawkins said. “Nothing’s different. We support each other on and off the field.”
For now, as Hawkins takes charge, Arnold remains ready and focused. From both Venables’ and Hawkins’ perspectives, Arnold is handling the situation with poise and preparation.
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