Ben Arbuckle’s journey to becoming the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach at the University of Oklahoma is a testament to his passion for coaching and his innovative approach to football. At just 29 years old, Arbuckle has rapidly ascended the coaching ranks, leaving a significant impact at each stop along the way.
Early Life and Education
Hailing from Canadian, Texas, Arbuckle’s roots in football run deep. Growing up in a community where the sport was more than just a game, he developed a profound understanding of its nuances and a fervent passion for coaching. He attended Canadian High School, where his love for football was nurtured. Furthering his education, Arbuckle played quarterback at West Texas A&M University. He graduated in 2018 with dual degrees in finance and economics, showcasing a blend of analytical skills and strategic thinking that would later influence his coaching style.
Coaching Beginnings
Arbuckle’s coaching career began at Houston Baptist University, where he served in a quality control role for two years (2018-2019). In his first year, he worked primarily with the offensive line, gaining insights into the foundational aspects of the game. The following year, he shifted focus to quarterbacks, igniting a passion that would define his career. This transition marked the beginning of his commitment to developing quarterbacks and crafting dynamic offenses.
Advancement to Western Kentucky University
In 2020, Arbuckle joined Western Kentucky University (WKU) as an offensive quality control staff member. His contributions were pivotal in the 2021 season, where the WKU offense led the nation in passing yards (433.7 per game) and ranked second in total offense (536.2 yards per game) and scoring (44.2 points per game). He played a crucial role in mentoring quarterback Bailey Zappe, who set single-season FBS records with 5,967 passing yards and 62 touchdowns.
Elevated to co-offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach in 2022, Arbuckle continued his trajectory of success. Under his guidance, WKU’s offense ranked second nationally in passing yards (339.0 per game), seventh in total offense (497.1 yards per game), and 15th in scoring offense (36.4 points per game). Quarterback Austin Reed led the nation with 4,746 passing yards, ranking third in passing touchdowns (40) and fourth in total offense (355.0 yards per game). The season culminated with a 44-23 victory over South Alabama in the New Orleans Bowl, highlighting the effectiveness of Arbuckle’s offensive strategies.
Impact at Washington State University
Arbuckle’s success at WKU led to an opportunity at Washington State University (WSU) in 2023. As offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach, he transformed the Cougars’ offense, propelling them to national prominence. The team ranked fourth nationally in passing offense (311.3 yards per game), sixth in total offense (323.3 yards per game), and 14th in total touchdowns (33). Quarterback Cam Ward’s performance improved markedly under Arbuckle, with his completion percentage rising from 64.4% to 66.6%, passing yards increasing from 3,232 to 3,736, and his efficiency rating climbing from 130.7 to 145.4. Ward’s success story underscored Arbuckle’s ability to elevate quarterbacks’ performances.
In 2024, Arbuckle continued his success at WSU, coaching quarterback John Mateer to lead the nation with 268 total points accounted for and 44 total touchdowns. Mateer ranked 18th in passing yards (261.9 per game), 72nd in rushing yards (68.8 per game), and fifth in total offense (330.4 yards per game), reflecting Arbuckle’s adaptability and prowess in developing diverse quarterback talents.
Joining the University of Oklahoma
Arbuckle’s reputation as an innovative offensive mind and quarterback developer caught the attention of University of Oklahoma head coach Brent Venables. In December 2024, Arbuckle was appointed as the Sooners’ offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach. Venables praised Arbuckle’s passion, innovative approach, and ability to maximize player potential, stating, “He has developed dynamic quarterbacks in his young coaching career and sees the QB game through a unique perspective and lens, as he played the position himself.”
Reflecting on his decision to join Oklahoma, Arbuckle shared, “Just a few weeks ago, Coach Venables gave me a shout… it took me all of two or three minutes to really hear his vision, hear his passion for this place. Immediate attraction.” He further expressed, “Coach Venables gave me the opportunity, and I had to run to it. I’m proud to be here. Very proud to be here.”
Coaching Philosophy and Vision
Arbuckle’s coaching philosophy centers on adaptability and maximizing player strengths. He emphasizes tailoring offensive schemes to fit the unique talents of his players, stating, “I’ve always played to the strength of my personnel. The personnel drives the scheme.” This approach has led to significant improvements in quarterbacks’ performances under his tutelage.
At Oklahoma, Arbuckle aims to establish dominance at the line of scrimmage, aligning with the program’s storied tradition of excellence. He expressed enthusiasm about working alongside veteran offensive line coach Bill Bedenbaugh and tight ends coach Joe Jon Finley, stating, “I can’t wait to work side-by-side with them to do that.” He also emphasizes the importance of scoring points and playing complementary football, aiming to create an explosive and dynamic offensive unit that Sooner fans can be proud of.
Looking Ahead
As Arbuckle embarks on this new chapter with the Oklahoma Sooners, the anticipation surrounding his impact is palpable.
Leave a Reply