Jaren Kanak shares Thanos-inspired reaction to Brent Venables taking over defensive playcalling duties

Oklahoma linebacker Jaren Kanak had the perfect reaction to some major news dropping regarding Brent Venables and the Sooners defense on Saturday afternoon.

Venables revealed he’ll take over play-calling duties on defense in 2025, via a statement released to the media. He noted discussions about “all facets of our program” in his decision, as he’s going to be a bit more hands-on with the unit this season, it seems.

Following the news hitting the circuit, Kanak took to social media to share a Thanos-inspired reaction to Venables’ decision. Quoting the Marvel supervillains’ iconic, “Fine, I’ll do it myself” line, Kanak shared a meme with his coach’s head on Thanos’ body. Check out the hilarious, fitting image below.

https://t.co/N5thusuKbs pic.twitter.com/k3iE2xbZJG

— Jaren Kanak (@KanakJaren) February 1, 2025

As you can tell, Kanak has an awesome sense of humor to go along with his ability on the field. Over his three seasons with the Sooners, he’s amassed 102 total tackles, so he’ll be hoping Venables’ calling the plays opens things up for himself a bit in 2025.

Moreover, Oklahoma has been searching for a new defensive coordinator since Zac Alley left to take over in the same capacity at West Virginia. OU announced two staff additions on Saturday, including former Arkansas State defensive coordinator Nate Dreiling, as On3’s Pete Nakos previously reported was in the works.

Dreiling and former Clemson defensive coordinator Wes Goodwin are both coming aboard, Oklahoma announced. But it will be Venables calling the plays when the Sooners take the field in 2025.

“I have reflected on all facets of our program over the past several weeks,” Venables said. “Since I was hired as head coach, we have carefully assembled the defensive personnel and scheme that is suited to compete at the highest level, and we’ve built a deep and talented roster ready for the moment.

“I have high expectations for our program and will do everything in my power to achieve our goals for our players. To that end, I will take over defensive play-calling responsibilities for the 2025 season.”

Oklahoma ranked No. 5 in the SEC in total defense in its first year in the league, and the Sooners’ 115.08 rush yards allowed also ranked Top-5 in the conference. Now, Brent Venables will take over the play-calling for the first time since he was the defensive coordinator at Clemson.

Their first game will come on Aug. 30 at home against Illinois State, but the Oklahoma leader will need his unit tuned up for the following weekend, as the Michigan Wolverines come to Norman on Sept. 6.

— On3’s Nick Schultz contributed to this article.