“He hit the ground running”: Brent Venables talks about Kevin Johns’ influence and the Sooners’ quarterback transition.
Brent Venables is preparing for one of the most significant hires of his career.
However, before that, the Sooners have five games remaining on their schedule. Joe Jon Finley will step in as play caller, while former offensive analyst Kevin Johns will take on an expanded role as co-offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach.
Unlike former co-offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach Seth Littrell, who was let go on Sunday, Johns has prior experience coaching quarterbacks, having spent two years at Duke and three years at Memphis.
“Johns has both perspectives as a quarterbacks coach and offensive coordinator,” Venables said during his weekly press conference on Tuesday. “His background in fundamentals, game preparation, and understanding what quarterbacks should and shouldn’t see is significant. He has achieved high-level success at Duke, Memphis, Indiana, and other places.”
Since his hiring in March, Johns has been focused on advanced scouting and supporting Venables with the scout team. Venables noted that he wasn’t involved in the day-to-day operations or in developing the offensive playbook until now.
This fall, he participated in quarterback meetings but hadn’t led them until recently.
“He hit the ground running yesterday,” Venables said. “He was right in his element, and I believe this fresh perspective will help the quarterbacks grow, allowing them to hear from a different voice and view the game through a new lens.”
Venables emphasized that Finley’s role is critical to the offense, stating, “Everything revolves around the play caller.”
Nonetheless, Johns will play an essential part in the offensive strategy. Venables has not yet decided whether Johns will be in the coaches’ booth or on the field. Finley had been on the field for every game until the loss against South Carolina, when he moved to the booth alongside Littrell.
Regardless of his position, Johns represents a fresh start for Venables and the Sooners. As Venables prepares to search for potential candidates, Johns has an opportunity to ensure he’s considered in the closing weeks of the season.
“With a fresh start for everyone,” Venables said, “I hope we’ll see some improvement.”
