Oklahoma Sooners’ offensive coordinator and wide receivers coach Ben Arbuckle has reportedly rejected a massive $3 million offer from the University of Georgia. The Bulldogs, fresh off a high-stakes recruiting push and eager to bolster their offensive firepower, aggressively pursued Arbuckle in hopes of luring him away from Norman. According to sources close to the situation, the offer would have made Arbuckle one of the highest-paid coordinators in college football. Yet, despite the financial temptation and Georgia’s recent dominance in the SEC, Arbuckle chose loyalty and continuity over money and prestige.
Arbuckle, only in his early 30s, has quickly established himself as one of the brightest young offensive minds in the nation. After a successful stint as the offensive coordinator at Western Kentucky, where he helped transform their offense into a top-10 scoring unit, he was brought to Oklahoma to rejuvenate a passing attack that had lost its rhythm in recent years. Under his leadership, the Sooners have seen a resurgence in offensive creativity, tempo, and efficiency. Wide receiver Jahlil Thomas, for instance, exploded onto the scene this past season with over 1,200 receiving yards, crediting Arbuckle’s schemes and hands-on coaching as the key to his breakout performance.
Georgia’s interest in Arbuckle is no surprise. The Bulldogs have been seeking to retool their offense after back-to-back seasons where explosive plays were inconsistent, especially against elite-level defenses. Head Coach Kirby Smart was believed to be looking for a younger, innovative mind to pair with his veteran staff — someone who could bring the energy and unpredictability that Arbuckle represents. The $3 million offer was not just about money; it was a statement that Georgia was willing to pay premium prices for top-tier talent and fresh ideas.
What makes Arbuckle’s decision even more remarkable is the timing. With the college football landscape changing rapidly due to NIL deals, the transfer portal, and coaching carousel instability, many assistants are more open than ever to short-term gains and big paydays. Arbuckle’s choice to remain at Oklahoma signals a long-term vision and belief in the direction of Brent Venables’ program. Insiders say Arbuckle is deeply committed to the players he’s been developing and believes the Sooners are on the verge of a special season — especially as they prepare to enter the SEC in 2025.
For Oklahoma fans, this news is as big as landing a five-star recruit. The continuity that Arbuckle provides is crucial for quarterback development and offensive identity — both of which are essential for competing against SEC powerhouses. Sophomore quarterback K.J. Sanders, who has been working closely with Arbuckle since arriving on campus, expressed relief in a social media post stating, “Coach Arbuckle staying is the best news I’ve heard all summer. We’re building something real.” Players, fans, and alumni are now hoping that this loyalty leads to on-field success in the coming seasons.
From a broader perspective, Arbuckle’s decision could shift the narrative around coaching loyalty in college football. With many assistants hopping between programs annually, his move to reject a financially superior offer in favor of stability and purpose may inspire a new wave of coaches to consider more than just salary figures. His reputation is likely to grow even further now — not just as an Xs and Os mastermind, but as a leader and culture-setter. Don’t be surprised if his name soon pops up in head coaching conversations at Power 5 programs.
In the end, Georgia’s loss is Oklahoma’s gain. The Sooners not only retain one of the hottest coaching names in the game but also send a message that their program is worth staying in. As the countdown to the 2025 season begins, all eyes will be on Ben Arbuckle and the Sooners’ offense. With high expectations and now a clear commitment from their play-caller, Oklahoma fans have every reason to believe that big things are on the horizon.