Oklahoma football has always been a program built on tradition, passion, and the relentless pursuit of greatness. Over the past few years, however, the Sooners have undergone significant changes, particularly in leadership. One of the most polarizing figures in this transition has been head coach Brent Venables, a defensive mastermind with deep ties to the program. While some fans and analysts remain skeptical about the direction of the team under his leadership, Oklahoma safety Billy Bowman is here to set the record straight.

In a recent interview, Bowman shared his unwavering belief in Venables, offering insights into the culture shift, the defensive improvements, and the long-term vision that the second-year head coach is implementing. His words serve as a rallying cry for those who doubt the Sooners’ ability to reclaim national dominance.

A Coach With a Vision

When Brent Venables took over as Oklahoma’s head coach in December 2021, he inherited a program in flux. The departure of Lincoln Riley to USC had left the Sooners reeling, with several key players entering the transfer portal and uncertainty surrounding the team’s identity. Venables, a former Oklahoma defensive coordinator and longtime Clemson assistant, was brought in to restore toughness and accountability—two attributes that had defined Sooner football for decades.

Bowman, one of the defensive anchors of the team, immediately recognized Venables’ impact.

“Coach Venables isn’t just here to win games; he’s here to build something that lasts,” Bowman said. “He wants to create a culture that’s about toughness, accountability, and making sure we do things the right way. That’s something every player can respect.”

For years, Oklahoma had been known for its offensive firepower, often compensating for a lackluster defense. Venables, however, has aimed to change that narrative by instilling a defensive mentality that prioritizes physicality, discipline, and preparation. Bowman, as one of the team’s top defensive playmakers, has been instrumental in leading that charge.

The Defensive Transformation Under Venables

One of the biggest criticisms of Oklahoma during the latter years of the Lincoln Riley era was its defensive inconsistency. While the offense routinely ranked among the nation’s best, the defense struggled to keep up. Venables, known for orchestrating elite defenses at Clemson, was hired to change that.

Bowman, a player who has thrived under Venables’ system, has seen firsthand how the defensive culture has evolved.

“When you watch our defense now compared to a couple of years ago, it’s night and day,” Bowman explained. “We’re more aggressive, we communicate better, and we take pride in shutting teams down. That’s all because of Coach Venables.”

Indeed, the numbers back up Bowman’s claim. In Venables’ first season, Oklahoma’s defense showed flashes of improvement, but it was in Year 2 where the transformation became evident. The Sooners started winning games with their defense rather than relying solely on their offense to outscore opponents. Players like Bowman have thrived in the system, making big plays in critical moments and helping the team establish a new identity.

Another major point of emphasis for Venables has been recruiting elite defensive talent. During the 2023 and 2024 recruiting cycles, Oklahoma secured commitments from several high-profile defensive prospects, a sign that the program is finally prioritizing balance. Bowman believes this is a testament to Venables’ vision.

“Players want to play for a coach who believes in them and who knows what it takes to win championships,” Bowman said. “Coach V has done that at Clemson, and now he’s building something special here at Oklahoma.”

The Accountability Factor

One of the reasons players like Bowman have bought into Venables’ system is the level of accountability he demands from his team. Unlike some past regimes, where certain players may have received preferential treatment or been allowed to skate by without putting in the work, Venables holds everyone to the same standard.

“It doesn’t matter if you’re a five-star recruit or a walk-on, if you’re not doing what you’re supposed to do, Coach Venables is going to let you know,” Bowman said. “That’s the kind of leader you want. Someone who pushes you to be the best version of yourself every single day.”

This accountability extends beyond the football field. Venables has placed a strong emphasis on academics, personal growth, and leadership development. He has implemented programs designed to prepare players for life after football, reinforcing the idea that being a Sooner is about more than just wins and losses.

Bowman believes this approach is essential for building a sustainable, championship-caliber program.

“It’s not just about what we do on Saturdays,” he said. “It’s about how we prepare throughout the week, how we carry ourselves off the field, and how we represent this university. Coach Venables is making sure we do things the right way.”

Why Fans Should Trust the Process

Despite the clear progress, some Oklahoma fans remain impatient. After years of being a perennial College Football Playoff contender, the program has endured some growing pains under Venables. Bowman understands the frustration but urges fans to look at the bigger picture.

“I know everyone wants to see us winning championships right away, but building something special takes time,” Bowman said. “If you look at what Coach Venables is doing, you can see that we’re on the right track.”

He pointed to Venables’ track record at Clemson, where he helped turn the Tigers into a defensive powerhouse and played a key role in multiple national championship runs. He believes the same formula is being applied at Oklahoma.

“We’re bringing in the right players, we’re developing them the right way, and we’re playing with the kind of intensity and passion that it takes to win at the highest level,” Bowman said. “I have no doubt that we’re going to be back where we belong.”

Final Thoughts

Billy Bowman’s endorsement of Brent Venables isn’t just about loyalty—it’s about a deep belief in the foundation being laid at Oklahoma. The Sooners are transitioning from an offensive-driven program to a more balanced, hard-nosed football team that can compete with the best in the nation.

While the results may not be immediate, Bowman’s message to fans is clear: trust the process, believe in the vision, and get ready for a return to greatness.

“Coach Venables is the right man for the job,” Bowman said. “And when we finally put it all together, it’s going to be something special.”

As the Sooners continue their journey under Venables, one thing is certain—players like Billy Bowman are all in. And if they believe in the mission, maybe the rest of Sooner Nation should too.