Deland McCullough to Lead Oklahoma Sooners’ Running Backs
The Oklahoma Sooners are poised to announce the hiring of Deland McCullough as their new running backs coach, according to multiple reports surfacing on Wednesday. McCullough brings a wealth of experience from both the NFL and collegiate levels, making him a highly sought-after candidate.
Replacing DeMarco Murray
McCullough will be taking the reins from DeMarco Murray, who recently departed to assume the same position with the Kansas City Chiefs earlier in February. Murray’s tenure with the Sooners saw a peak in 2022, when the team ranked 10th in FBS with an impressive average of 219.4 rushing yards per game.
NFL Experience with the Las Vegas Raiders
Most recently, McCullough served as the running backs coach for the Las Vegas Raiders. While the Raiders struggled in the rushing game in the 2023 season, finishing last in the NFL with a mere 77.5 yards per game, his coaching acumen was still highly regarded. The next lowest-ranked team averaged a significantly higher 93.1 yards.
A Proven Track Record in College Football
McCullough’s reputation was largely built on his successful collegiate coaching career. Before his stint with the Raiders, he honed his skills at several prominent universities:
- Indiana (2011-2016): McCullough spent six seasons developing running backs for the Hoosiers.
- Southern California (2017): A one-year stop with the Trojans.
- Kansas City Chiefs (2018-2020): He joined Andy Reid’s staff and contributed to the Chiefs’ offensive success.
- Notre Dame (2022-2024): This is where McCullough truly shined, notably helping develop Jeremiyah Love, a Heisman Trophy contender in the 2023 season.
DeMarco Murray’s Legacy
DeMarco Murray, a former Oklahoma standout and NFL Offensive Player of the Year (2014 with the Dallas Cowboys), left a strong mark on the Sooners’ program during his time as running backs coach. He finished his Big 12 career with over 60 touchdowns, a feat achieved by only four others at the time. He played in the NFL from 2011-2017.
McCullough’s Early Career
Prior to his coaching career, McCullough was a standout player himself. He earned Mid-American Conference Freshman of the Year honors at Miami (OH) in 1992 and had brief stints in the NFL with the Cincinnati Bengals and in the Canadian Football League with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.
Looking Ahead
The hiring of Deland McCullough signals a commitment by the Oklahoma Sooners to maintain a strong running game. His experience and proven ability to develop talent will be crucial as the team navigates the evolving landscape of college football. You can find more information about the Sooners on Sooners Wire.
