The Oklahoma Sooners’ move to the SEC in the upcoming college football season marks a significant transition for the program after years in the Big 12. Along with this move comes a notable change in the coaching staff, particularly in the special teams department.
Oklahoma football is making a strategic addition by bringing on Doug Deakin, former special teams coordinator at San Diego State University, as a special teams analyst. While this move may not grab headlines, it underscores the importance of special teams in the game. Deakin’s track record of helping San Diego State rank in the top 10 of ESPN’s FBS special teams efficiency for three consecutive years highlights his expertise in this area.
Special teams often don’t receive as much attention as offense and defense, despite their critical role in shaping field position and overall game momentum. However, a strong special teams unit can significantly impact a team’s performance on both sides of the ball. By bolstering their special teams with Deakin’s guidance, Oklahoma aims to enhance their competitive edge, particularly as they enter the highly competitive environment of the SEC.
The move to the SEC comes after negotiations between Oklahoma, Texas, and the conference to facilitate their early exit from the Big 12. This decision reflects a strategic shift for both programs, seeking new challenges and opportunities in one of the most competitive conferences in college football.