Description
Book SynopsisIn 1947, Bud Wilkinson was named OU's head football coach and became the architect of Oklahoma's meteoric rise from mediocrity to perennial powerhouse. Based on interviews with Wilkinson, former OU president George Cross, and former players, John Scott gives us the behind-the-scenes story of Wilkinson's years at the University of Oklahoma.
Trade Review“Commitment. Leadership. Innovation. Loyalty. A dedication to others. A commitment to helping people find excellence not just on the playing field but in life. These are the qualities that define Bud Wilkinson and the University
of Oklahoma and that are still at the heart of OU’s ongoing effort to prepare champions for life. John Scott gives readers a great gift by capturing the origins of OU’s DNA and the values of Sooner Magic.”—
Joseph R. Castiglione Sr., Vice President / Director of Athletics, University of Oklahoma “John Scott has a considerable talent for making his characters, both coaches and players, come alive. OU football devotees will find in these pages wonderful descriptions of their favorite heroes—Billy Vessels, Jack Mitchell, Darrell Royal, Wade Walker, Tommy McDonald, Prentice Gautt, Lance Rentzel, and Joe Don Looney, to name only a few. And the portrayals of coaches Gomer Jones, Port Robertson, Jim Tatum, Red Blaik, and Bear Bryant
will captivate readers.”—
David W. Levy, author of
The University of Oklahoma: A History “At OU, we build champions. In
Bud Wilkinson and the Rise of Oklahoma Football, John Scott tells the exciting story of how Bud Wilkinson created the model for this mission in football and in life. It’s a page-turning tale of competition, character, and relationships.”—
Keith GÅddie, author of
OU Football IQ