Paul Finebaum Names SEC Coach Facing 'Critical' Season

Several SEC Coaches are under serious pressure to improve their football programs next season.

According to Paul Finebaum, Oklahoma's Brent Venables is facing the most critical season in 2025 if he wants to continue his tenure at Norman. Per Athlon Sports:

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On "The Paul Finebaum Show," SEC Network analyst Paul Finebaum was asked whether Venables could survive another season. Finebaum did not sugarcoat his response.

"I think this season is absolutely critical," Finebaum said. "I don't think that's a revelation. But, I don't think there can be any middle ground. He has now completely rebooted and you have to nail these coordinator hires."

Finebaum emphasized the importance of getting quarterback John Mateer from the transfer portal for the Sooners, stating that it brings much-needed optimism to the fans. Mateer passed for 3,139 yards, 29 touchdowns and seven interceptions at Washington State last year. He also rushed for 826 yards and scored 15 touchdowns on the ground.

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Venables was hired in 2022 and has a 22–17 record over three seasons with the Sooners.