Column You want to build a successful football program in the modern age? It sounds simple enough. Secure resources Find elite talent in high school or the transfer portal Sign elite talent Retain elite talent That’s the blueprint. But if it’s that straightforward, why do so many still miss? Name, image and likeness has, in theory, lowered the barrier for non-traditional powers. At the same time, college football’s heavyweights can now flaunt their financial muscle in the open instead of operating in the shadows. The gap didn’t disappear — it just evolved. Which brings the focus back to Oklahoma. Has Brent Venables actually positioned the Sooners to build something sustainable in this new era? Oklahoma coach Brent Venables | Carson Field / Sooners On SI The short answer is simple: The country and OU's fan base will find out at the conclusion of the 2026 season, which is primed to be one of the toughest in school history .…