What will happen to Oklahoma’s defensive coordinator one month after Zac Alley’s exit?
One month after the departure of defensive coordinator **Zac Alley**, Oklahoma is left to search for a new leader to revamp its defense as the program looks to remain competitive in the highly challenging Big 12. Alley’s exit, which came shortly after the conclusion of the 2024 season, has raised questions about the direction of the Sooners’ defensive strategy, especially after a year that saw defensive struggles despite a high-powered offense.
Oklahoma athletic director **Joe Castiglione** and head coach **Brent Venables**, who previously built his reputation as one of the nation’s top defensive minds, are now tasked with finding a replacement who can restore the program’s defensive identity. The departure of Alley, who had been with Venables for a few years, has forced the Sooners into a critical decision that will define the future of their defense.
Speculation is swirling around potential candidates to take over the role. Internal options, including current Oklahoma defensive assistants, have been mentioned, with some names gaining traction due to familiarity with the program’s system. However, many expect the Sooners to look outside the organization for a more experienced and potentially high-profile hire to inject energy into the defensive unit.
As the coaching search continues, Oklahoma’s focus remains on improving its defensive consistency, something that will be crucial as they enter the new era of the SEC in 2024. Whoever is chosen will need to balance Venables’ philosophies while addressing the defensive gaps that have plagued the team in recent seasons.
