From one former Oklahoma Hall of Fame coach to another, Bob Stoops has never been shy about his admiration for Barry Switzer.
The latest example of that came on Monday morning, with Stoops chiming in on a viral photo of Switzer, in reference to the “No Kings” protest of President Donald Trump.
In the rich history of Oklahoma football, few names carry as much weight as Barry Switzer and Bob Stoops. Together, the two legendary head coaches have defined the Sooners’ modern identity — one with a swagger built in the ’70s and ’80s, the other forged in the grit of the 2000s.
But beyond their national titles and packed trophy cases lies a lasting relationship rooted in respect, legacy, and a shared love for OU football.
When Lincoln Riley took over in 2017, Stoops didn’t vanish, and neither did Switzer. But when Brent Venables was hired in 2021 and Stoops coached the Alamo Bowl as interim, Switzer stood firmly behind him, tweeting and speaking publicly about Stoops’ steady hand and the program’s need for continuity.
Even now, in 2025, Stoops and Switzer remain staples in Norman. Both are often seen at games, alumni events, and media appearances, still deeply intertwined with OU’s fabric, frequently showing mutual support, and sometimes even sharing a stage or sideline.
While the “No Kings” protest realistically has nothing to do with football, it’s still pretty cool to see the relationship between Bob Stoops and Barry Switzer continue to flourish.
Together, they represent the gold standard at Oklahoma and a model for how coaching legacies can uplift rather than overshadow.
