Carter Scruggs, a four-star offensive tackle from Leesburg, Virginia, recently visited the University of Oklahoma and left with glowing impressions of the program’s “elite” culture. Scruggs, who is ranked among the top interior offensive linemen in the nation, has been weighing his options as he navigates the competitive world of college football recruitment. His visit to Norman, Oklahoma, marked a pivotal moment in his decision-making process, as he experienced firsthand the values and vision that define the Sooners under head coach Brent Venables.
Scruggs’ recruitment journey has been one of careful consideration. As a highly sought-after prospect, he has received offers from several top programs, including Clemson, Michigan, Penn State, and Georgia. Each school has presented compelling reasons for Scruggs to join their ranks, but Oklahoma’s culture stood out during his multi-day unofficial visit. The trip was Scruggs’ first time at OU since attending a game-day visit last November, and it provided him with a deeper understanding of what the program has to offer.
During his visit, Scruggs had the opportunity to meet with the coaching staff, tour the facilities, and observe the team’s practices. He was particularly impressed by the leadership and philosophy of Coach Venables, who has been instrumental in shaping the Sooners’ identity. Scruggs noted that Venables’ approach reminded him of the culture at Clemson, where Venables previously served as defensive coordinator. “It’s definitely one of the elite cultures that I’ve seen,” Scruggs said. “I think Coach Venables is doing a great thing with Oklahoma, and they’re definitely poised to have a lot of success this year.”
The emphasis on teamwork, discipline, and development resonated with Scruggs and his family. He appreciated the way Venables has adapted elements of Clemson’s culture to fit Oklahoma’s unique identity, creating an environment that fosters growth and success. Scruggs also highlighted the Sooners’ commitment to excellence both on and off the field, which aligns with his own aspirations as a student-athlete.
Oklahoma’s offensive line coach, Bill Bedenbaugh, played a key role in making the visit memorable for Scruggs. Known for his ability to develop NFL-caliber talent, Bedenbaugh’s reputation as one of the best in the business was a major draw for the young lineman. Scruggs expressed excitement about the prospect of working with Bedenbaugh and contributing to a program he grew up watching.
As Scruggs continues to evaluate his options, his experience at Oklahoma has positioned the Sooners as a strong contender in his recruitment. The visit not only showcased the program’s strengths but also reinforced the importance of finding the right fit for his development and goals. With summer official
