The Oklahoma Sooners introduced their newest head coach on Monday and Auburn football was mentioned during his opening presser.
In fact, AU was name-dropped in a way that has many simply perplexed.
Former Clemson defensive coordinator Brent Venables talked about forgoing the chance to coach the Tigers–likely referencing last year’s coaching search which saw both the head coaching role and defensive coordinator role vacant–and mentioned “alignment” as the reason for passing up the Plains.
To which Tiger fans replied, ‘huh’?
What alignment is he referring to?
— WarDamnEagle!🧡💙🦅🐅 (@dsw4au) December 6, 2021
wtf does that actually mean
— FREEZINGINAUBURN (@bignizo) December 6, 2021
He does know OU is probably going to be in the SEC West, right?
— Valiant Hermes (@Valiant_Hermes) December 6, 2021
What does that mean “alignment”? Legitimately curious 🤨
— KDub Ells 🦚 (@Aubieblue) December 6, 2021
— ahjau (@ahjau) December 6, 2021
Many believe Venables could be referring to the team’s top-down situation, which is encompassing of the university’s boosters and athletic department executives:
You're going to see this word a lot... alignment. When your coach, AD, president and boosters are all on the same page, it makes all the difference.
— Shehan Jeyarajah (@ShehanJeyarajah) December 6, 2021
The historical alignment at Oklahoma and Ohio State are why I think they're two of the best jobs the country. https://t.co/kXXBcjyBw3
Alignment seems to be a big deal with this next generation of head coaches. #LSU HC Brian Kelly mentioned the university's alignment numerous times throughout his introductory press conference https://t.co/JxxaPyhMEh
— Zach Nuñez (@ZachNunezTV) December 6, 2021
Ultimately, though, Venables may be making headlines more so than addressing any rumors of substance:
There's some truth to this. Venables talked to Auburn officials about the job last year. Saying he passed on it feels a bit strong given it never really got that far. Never felt like he was all that interested. https://t.co/HjE5wOqhtk
— John Talty (@JTalty) December 6, 2021
Even when Auburn football isn’t the story, it somehow finds its way into the story.