Brent Venables Praises Michael Hawkins Jr., Calling Him ‘Easy to Bet On
Oklahoma Sooners head coach Brent Venables has high praise for freshman quarterback Michael Hawkins Jr., describing him as a player who is “easy to bet on.” As one of the promising young talents in the Sooners’ program, Hawkins has quickly caught the attention of the coaching staff with his work ethic, natural athleticism, and leadership potential.
A Rising Star in Norman
Hawkins, a four-star recruit from Frisco, Texas, arrived in Norman with significant expectations. He was ranked among the top dual-threat quarterbacks in the 2024 recruiting class, and his commitment to the Sooners was seen as a major win for the program. Known for his versatility, Hawkins possesses the ability to make plays with both his arm and his legs, a trait that aligns well with Venables’ vision for a dynamic, high-tempo offense.
Speaking about Hawkins’ potential, Venables expressed confidence in the young quarterback’s development. “He’s got all the tools you want in a quarterback,” Venables said. “But more than that, it’s his mindset, his approach to the game. He’s easy to bet on because of the way he carries himself on and off the field.”
Leadership and Maturity Beyond His Years
For Venables, Hawkins’ maturity and leadership qualities are just as impressive as his physical abilities. “He’s not afraid of the moment,” Venables explained. “He’s confident, but humble, and his teammates respect him for that. When you watch him operate, you see someone who has a calm presence and can rally the guys around him.”
Hawkins has already begun making an impression in practice, working closely with the coaching staff to refine his skills and adapt to the college level. While the Sooners have an established starter in Dillon Gabriel, Hawkins has embraced the opportunity to learn from the experienced veteran and the coaching staff.
A Bright Future Ahead
Venables’ faith in Hawkins’ future comes down to more than just his athletic talent—it’s about his approach to the game and willingness to improve. “He’s just scratching the surface of what he can become,” Venables said. “Michael is the kind of guy who is always working to get better. You give him a challenge, and he’s going to put in the work to meet it.”
While Hawkins may not be expected to take on a major role in his freshman year, his presence in the program gives Oklahoma fans plenty to be excited about. With his natural abilities and strong work ethic, it’s no wonder Venables is confident that Hawkins is “easy to bet on.”
As the Sooners continue to build their future, it’s clear that Michael Hawkins Jr. will play a key role in the team’s success in the years to come.
