Brent Venables provides his initial reaction, first meal back in Oklahoma

Brent Venables is back home in Oklahoma. Following a 12-year stint coaching the Sooners defense from 1999-2011, Venables was chosen as the man to lead the program into its next era.

After the shocking news of Lincoln Riley departing for USC, Oklahoma was faced with the gigantic test of finding the right replacement. With his ties to the university, as well as his immense amount of coaching success, Venables was the perfect choice.

In his introductory press conference, Venables detailed the euphoria he felt upon finally returning to Oklahoma.

“It was really indescribable,” answered Venables when asked what it was like being back in Norman. “You talk about going down memory lane — just some amazing memories. Our family was molded and shaped here. Just so many incredible influences.”

When Venables first got to Norman, he took his family to Gaylord Family Oklahoma Memorial Stadium. It was an incredible moment, as the lights shone bright on the new Sooners head coach. However, perhaps the best part of the return was the return of the food he’s missed so much.

“And then we’re going home … we are starving. Way after midnight. Found Whataburger. Game-changer. We don’t have one of those in Clemson,” joked Venables. “Triple cheeseburger later and some onion rings — we were in hog-heaven.”

Any doubts Venables had about returning to Oklahoma were quelled by one bite into his Whataburger. His return to Norman has been storybook, but his results on the field will prove whether Venables’ tenure is as fruitful as his predecessors.

Venables: ‘We’re so grateful and thankful things have come full circle’

One of the highest-regarded assistant coaches in the nation, Brent Venables was a major player at Clemson. However, the opportunity to return to Oklahoma was too good for Venables to pass up.

Furthermore, the new Sooners leader spoke about how thankful he is for the chance to return to Norman.

“We’re so grateful and thankful things have come full circle,” stated Venables. “You can’t fabricate family. It’s felt so easy, on so many levels — it’s just very hard to describe. But it’s very real. Very tangible. We’re just thankful and looking forward to hopefully adding to the Sooners family. Adding to the rich history and tradition here.”

Oklahoma had to get their replacement for Lincoln Riley correct. In Brent Venables, the early returns are fantastic. If there’s anybody who understands what it takes to win with the Sooners, it’s Venables.