Barry Switzer Reflects on 1985 Championship Team Ahead of Anniversary

NORMAN, Okla. – As the University of Oklahoma prepares to celebrate the 40th anniversary of its 1985 national championship team, legendary head coach Barry Switzer is reflecting on the players, the season, and the ever-changing landscape of college football.

In an interview with Chris Williams, Switzer described the ’85 Sooners as a rare collection of talent and leadership. ‘Oh, they’re outstanding,’ Switzer said. ‘When you have a great group of players, and they all knew they were good and played with a lot of pride and enthusiasm. They had great leadership amongst them, and they were just a very, very talented group of players.’

One of the most recognizable names from that era was linebacker Brian Bosworth. Switzer’s respect for Bosworth has never wavered. ‘I’ve always had a great relationship with Bosworth. I didn’t like Boz, I liked Brian Bosworth,’ he said. ‘Boz was a guy that danced for the media, and the media made him out to be a star. And he was a great, great football player.’

Switzer also looked back on his famed wishbone offense, saying it would still cause problems for defenses today. ‘These guys today in secondary, they’re playing in space and they don’t have to support the run, take on blockers and all that. It’d be a different game for them if we met our team.’

When asked about coaching in today’s era of college football, Switzer did not hesitate. ‘No, I’m like Saban, I wouldn’t want to coach in this era,’ he said. ‘I think there’s got to be some changes made, and I hope there will be.’

The Sooners will honor Switzer and the 1985 team this Saturday during their 3 p.m. matchup against Kent State at Owen Field. Switzer, along with his former players, coaches, and staff, will be recognized at halftime, marking four decades since one of OU football’s most dominant national championship seasons.