Brent Venables preaches patience with Michael Hawkins Jr.

Brian Schaible

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Brent Venables preaches patience with Michael Hawkins Jr. image

Oklahoma head coach Brent Venables stressed patience with sophomore quarterback Michael Hawkins Jr. in his press conference this week, acknowledging the balancing act between preparation and preserving eligibility.

Hawkins is no stranger to the field. A four-star recruit out of Frisco Emerson High School in Texas, he saw action as a true freshman in 2024, playing in seven games and making four starts, including the Armed Forces Bowl against Navy. For the season, he completed 76 of 120 passes for 783 yards and three touchdowns, while also rushing for 204 yards and a score.

Still, Venables says the staff wants to manage Hawkins’ future carefully. “We’re preparing him every single week, like he’s a guy that’s got to go in and take 70 or 80 snaps,” Venables said. “Until our hand’s forced, we’re not at any liberty to just get him in for a few series here. We’d hate to burn his year unnecessarily. The course of the season will work itself out, but we’re going to be very mindful of not burning his year before we have to.”

Venables praised Hawkins’ dual-threat ability, pointing to the problems he can cause defenses.

“He’s a real weapon running the ball. He has great instincts as a runner, great lateral quickness, and he’s explosive. He’s built strong and compact, so he can absorb some big hits. That keeps defenses in a tough predicament because he can throw the ball with great ability as well.”

With veteran John Mateer starting, Hawkins continues to develop behind the scenes. For now, Oklahoma plans to maximize his preparation while ensuring his long-term trajectory remains intact.

“Michael is ready if we need him,” Venables said. “But we’re going to be smart about it.”

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Brian Schaible

Brian Schaible is a freelance writer with The Sporting News. He is an award-winning journalist with over 25 years of experience covering college and professional sports. Brian holds a master’s degree in journalism/public relations from Kent State University.