**ESPN Report: Former Oklahoma Sooners Legend Billy Sims Returns as Head Coach**
In a move that has electrified the college football world, the University of Oklahoma announced today that former Heisman Trophy winner and Sooners legend Billy Sims will return to Norman—not as an honorary captain or ceremonial figurehead, but as the next head coach of the Oklahoma Sooners.
The 69-year-old Sims, whose name is synonymous with OU football greatness, accepted the position following the unexpected resignation of head coach Brent Venables. The university confirmed the news in a packed press conference, with athletic director Joe Castiglione calling the decision “a bold return to the roots of what makes Oklahoma football special.”
“We’re bringing back a legend,” Castiglione said. “Billy Sims is more than a name in the rafters—he’s the heartbeat of Sooner football. We believe he can inspire this next generation with the same fire he played with.”
Sims, who won the Heisman in 1978 and led the Sooners to multiple conference titles under coach Barry Switzer, hasn’t coached at the collegiate level before. His post-NFL career has largely been spent in business, public speaking, and as the face of the Billy Sims BBQ restaurant chain. But Sims insists he’s ready for the challenge.
“I’ve been on the sidelines for too long,” Sims said, donning a crimson OU hat. “It’s time to bring that Sooner magic back to the field. I’m not just here to wave pom-poms—I’m here to win football games.”
Despite a lack of formal coaching experience, Sims has surrounded himself with a seasoned staff. His offensive coordinator will be former Sooners quarterback Landry Jones, while longtime defensive guru Gene Chizik is reportedly being considered for the defensive coordinator role.
Current players responded to the announcement with excitement and a touch of disbelief.
“Coach Sims? That’s crazy—in a good way,” said sophomore wide receiver Marcus Bell. “I grew up hearing stories about him. Having a legend like that in the locker room just gives us a whole new energy.”
Skeptics, however, question the practicality of hiring a former player with no college coaching résumé. But Sims dismissed those doubts.
“I may be new to coaching on paper, but I know football,” Sims said. “I’ve been in those trenches. I’ve bled on that field. These players want someone who understands what it means to wear that jersey.”
Sims plans to install a high-tempo, ground-and-pound offense reminiscent of the Wishbone days he thrived in. Whether that style translates to modern college football remains to be seen—but for now, the buzz in Norman is undeniable.
“This isn’t just a job for me,” Sims said. “It’s a homecoming. And I plan to make it a winning one.”
Spring practices begin in six weeks, and with Billy Sims at the helm, the Sooners’ 2025 season just became one of the most anticipated in college football.
Will the legend write a new chapter in Oklahoma’s storied history? Time will tell. But one thing’s for sure—Boomer Sooner is back in bold print.
