Deland McCullough arrived in Norman with a clear directive: transform the Sooners’ rushing philosophy from a volume‑based approach into one that prizes what happens after the initial hit. His new metric — three yards gained after contact per carry — has become the compass guiding the entire offense.
The 2024 season painted a stark picture. Oklahoma managed just 1,540 rushing yards, ranking last in the SEC and marking the program’s worst average per carry in a decade at 3.54 yards. The shortcomings were not confined to the backfield; the offensive line, passing scheme, and overall game plan all required urgent revision.
Emphasizing Physicality and Consistency
McCullough’s philosophy forces the team to view every snap as an opportunity to break tackles and accumulate post‑contact yardage. Tailbacks such as Xavier Robinson and Tory Blaylock are being asked to embrace a more physically demanding role, one that rewards durability and willingness to absorb hits.
Offensive coordinator Ben Arbuckle has echoed this sentiment, stressing that staying ahead of the defensive line is essential for the run game to thrive. The coaching staff believes that a consistent three‑yard gain after contact can shift momentum, sustain drives, and relieve pressure on the passing attack.
The approach draws inspiration from recent college and professional examples. Former Boise State rookie Ashton Jeanty, who amassed 639 yards after contact despite totaling only 1,000 yards, set a benchmark for what is possible when a back maximizes post‑contact production.
The need for improvement was underscored during the Sooners’ first‑round College Football Playoff loss to Alabama, where a stagnant ground game exposed a critical vulnerability. McCullough sees that defeat as a catalyst, a reminder that the run game must evolve or the season’s goals will remain out of reach.
If the new metric can be translated into consistent on‑field execution, the Sooners could see a resurgence in rushing efficiency, a boost in overall offensive balance, and a stronger foundation for the next generation of Oklahoma football.