By Jay Berry
As the Oklahoma Sooners navigate through challenging times in 2024, let’s take a moment to reflect on a more prosperous era on the football field in Norman, Oklahoma.
Barry Switzer was named to the 2024 SEC Legends Class. Below we look back at his epic career.
Barry Switzer named to 2024 @SEC Football Legends class 👑 https://t.co/mzseLc5xpc | #OUDNA pic.twitter.com/rKbGwQuaBB
— Oklahoma Football (@OU_Football) October 22, 2024
Barry Switzer: The Legend
1973 began an epic era in Oklahoma Sooners football history.
That is when Barry Switzer became the head coach at the University of Oklahoma after previous coach Chuck Fairbanks left. Fairbanks was the Sooners’ head coach from 1967-1972 before leaving for the NFL to coach the New England Patriots.
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Fairbanks left a bit of a mess. After his departure, a recruiting scandal emerged, causing the Sooners to forfeit nine games from the 1972 season. Fairbanks denied any involvement in the scandal, but as a consequence, the Sooners were ineligible for bowl games for two years after the departure. The Big Eight conference also imposed a two-year TV ban.
From 1973 to 1988, Switzer’s Sooners dominated the Big 8 Conference, winning 12 conference titles and three national championships, establishing a dynasty still discussed decades later. His unique coaching style led to an impressive record of 157-29-4 and a remarkable winning percentage of .837, placing him among the elite in NCAA Division 1 history.
Switzer won 157 games while coaching the Sooners. Ranking him second all-time in program history, just behind Bob Stoops‘s 190 victories. Oklahoma has four coaches with 100+ wins, the most of any program.
𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐝𝐢𝐮𝐦 𝐒𝐜𝐫𝐚𝐩𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤 1️⃣ » Oct. 6, 1973 | In head coach Barry Switzer's first game at Memorial Stadium as head coach, No. 6 OU overcame a 13-point halftime deficit to defeat No. 17 Miami 24-20. With OU leading 21-20 with 11:02 remaining, the Hurricanes threw a double… pic.twitter.com/I89uesZRwR
— Oklahoma Football (@OU_Football) August 29, 2024
Wishbone, Toughness, and Swagger
Switzer is known for the wishbone offense, toughness, and confidence. His charismatic personality also played a crucial role in recruiting players, playing a big part in his success over many years. Switzer also focused on strength and conditioning, ensuring his squads could back up the outlaw image. His electrifying presence often irritated opponents.
As the coach, Switzer’s influence transcended football, inspiring generations of Oklahoma fans and earning him induction into the College Football Hall of Fame.
His impact and dedication to the Sooners brand remain active today, with the Barry Switzer Center’s state-of-the-art football facility bearing his name.
Barry Switzer’s Achievements at Oklahoma
- 12 Big Eight Conference titles
- 3 National Championships (1974, 1975, 1985)
- 157-29-4 overall record (.837 winning percentage)
- Coached Heisman Trophy winner Billy Sims
- College Football Hall of Fame induction (2001)
As the Oklahoma program looks to return to greatness, it can draw inspiration from the long-lasting and enduring legacy of Barry Switzer. Brent Venables could use the inspiration.
