Brent Venables discusses how to build Jackson Arnold’s confidence
Despite playing what many would consider lesser opponents, the Oklahoma offense has not been firing, on any cylinder. Confidence cannot be high after two games, mainly for quarterback Jackson Arnold. On paper, the stats look decent with 315 yards and six touchdowns but the pass game has not been efficient by any means.
Arnold is early in his career as the Oklahoma starting quarterback and was supposed to grow into the role before heading into SEC play. Instead, there are questions to answer on Saturday against Tulane.
In order to build the confidence up, head coach Brent Venables believes Arnold just needs to go out there and get more reps. Sure, everything begins with practice and building chemistry with your weapons. However, if Arnold can produce in these games, the comfort level will sky rocket.
“You have to have success,” Venables said. “So, if you understand what he can do well and what you’ve seen him do well in practice. Those are at the top of the game plan. It’s one thing to have it on paper, you have to go out there and do it in the game. The more you do it, the more confident you’ll get.”
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Arnold is in a bit of a different situation than a normal struggling player, though. He is widely viewed as the offensive leader and should be the one pushing the Sooners through difficult times. It’s a new role for him after watching Dillon Gabriel be the guy in 2023.
Venables praised his quarterback for how he has handled the situation and spoke to the maturity level Arnold possesses.
“That’s the expectation that comes with it,” Venables said. “We focus on doing as well as you can do every single day, you’re a leader. Guys are counting on you. You can’t be over there just focusing on yourself when it comes to the leadership piece. You’ve got to be a great example, have your head down, and go into work every day too. That balance is really important.
“He’s a mature tough guy so he’s handled it really well. He’s got great self awareness and has taken ownership where he’s needed to. That’s allowed him to take the next step as far as his progression and development.”
Nearly everything can be forgotten heading into SEC play if Oklahoma performs well against Tulane. Tennessee will soon be in town with a road trip to Auburn being next on the schedule. Confidence is going to be key moving forward for Arnold and Venables believes it will be figured out.
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