John Rohde, sports columnist

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David Stanley Ford

Sam Bradford deserved some class in return
Billy Sims ‘There was no disrespect’

By John Rohde    Comments Comment on this article89
Published: December 16, 2008

You will not find a bigger fan of Billy Sims than Steve Owens.


University of Oklahoma football player Sam Bradford answers questions for the media after being awarded the Heisman Trophy Saturday, Dec. 13, 2008 in New York. (AP Photo/Julie Jacobson)

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The two became friends 30 years ago when Sims joined Owens as a member of the exclusive Heisman Trophy club.

So it stands to reason Owens has no intention of telling Sims how to behave, or how not to behave, during the annual Heisman ceremony.

There will be no intervention.

Sims is free to scream "Boomer” 11 times in a span of roughly 30 seconds, as he did Saturday night after Sam Bradford’s name was called out inside the Nokia Theater in New York City.

Ask Owens about what transpired and he proudly shouts, "It’s Billy Sims. That’s him. Every time we’re fortunate to be in the Heisman race, he gets excited.”

Bradford became the school’s fifth Heisman winner, joining Billy Vessels (1952), Owens (1969), Sims (1978) and Jason White (2003).

When White won the award, Sims was in attendance and begged for an echoed response to a boisterous "Boomer” cry.

White complied with a "Sooner,” and Bradford did the same.

OU football fans were a tad annoyed at Sims for upstaging White during his big moment.

On this occasion, fans were angry Sims failed to learn his lesson and did the same to Bradford.

At Monday night’s Heisman banquet at the Hilton hotel in New York City, Sims addressed the crowd after learning he was being criticized for what transpired Saturday night.

"In no way did I mean to upstage Sam’s night,” Sims said. "I love Oklahoma so much that I try to be a spokesman for the university, and I will never ever stop saying ‘Boomer.’ I apologize to the Bradford family and the Heisman Trust if I crossed the boundary.”

Owens was informed of the public outcry earlier on Monday.

"There was no disrespect,” Owens said. "There certainly was no disrespect (intended) for Sam. Hey, we’re all happy for him. We’ve got our fifth Heisman Trophy winner. People need to relax. People need to give Billy a break, man.

"This is how Billy expresses himself. When good things happen to the Sooners, he’s excited about it. When we heard Sam’s name, we were all excited about it. It was a time of celebration.”

Owens paused, chuckled and said, "Look, this is not the first time” for Sims to lead a "Boomer-Sooner” echo.

Sims no doubt is beloved by OU fans. Everywhere he goes, they plead for his "Boomer” cry, but Saturday’s ceremony was neither the time nor place.

Owens again asked for some leniency.

"Listen, that’s Billy’s expression, and he does it from a point of respect,” Owens said. "He’s proud of Sam, and we had a great time with Sam, the four of us taking pictures together.”

Perhaps no school in the Heisman fraternity carries more pride than past winners from OU, who often attend the ceremony even when there’s not a Sooner in the running.

Had Vessels not passed seven years ago, all five OU winners would have been in attendance last weekend.

"We miss Billy Vessels so much,” Owens said. "We’re all so close. We talk weekly.”

On Sunday night, approximately 20 former Heisman winners and their families gathered at the Battery Gardens Restaurant in Manhattan.

Also on hand were Bradford and his family and friends, plus OU athletic director Joe Castiglione, coach Bob Stoops, offensive coordinator Kevin Wilson, quarterbacks coach and 2000 runner-up Josh Heupel, White and a well-behaved Sims. Former coach Barry Switzer was in attendance for Saturday night’s announcement and again for Monday night’s dinner.

"It was like a family reunion of Oklahoma people,” Owens said. "It was a beautiful night for us. We had a great time.

"Sam is such a great pick. He is such a quality kid with a tremendous amount of class.”

Bradford deserved some class in return.

John Rohde: 475-3099. John Rohde can be heard Monday-Friday from 6-7 p.m. on The Sports Animal Network, including AM-640 and FM-98.1.

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David Stanley Ford


Related Topics: Sports, Football, Athletic Awards, College Athletics, College Football, Football Awards


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John, the other day on the Sports Animal you said something like "80% of Sooner fans where upset with Billy's antics." You must have been listening only to media members. Based on the comments posted here I'd say the sentiment is overwhelmingly in favor of Billy Sims.
Stinger_1066, Oklahoma City - Dec 18, 2008 at 9:53 am
Several years ago some friends from Oklahoma now transplanted to Parker Texas came to visit me in New Mexico. We went to the Catholic neighborhood church for mass. As my friends sat down my friend noticed that a young man sitting next to him had an OU hat on and so he quietly leaned over and said "boomer" and the young man did not reply.... so immediately we knew that someone had given him the OU hat and that he had no idea about "boomer, sooner" anyway we got a good laugh about it as we left the service....BOOMER..... SOONER.
Grace, Las Cruces - Dec 17, 2008 at 5:48 pm
I have lived in the Dallas, Texas area since 1995 and anytime I see someone with an OU Sooners shirt on around North Texas I say Boomer. If they do not respond with Sooner I know they are not a true fan. I say Boomer you say Sooner. Billy: BOOMER SOONER

Born An Okie !
Gary, Frisco - Dec 17, 2008 at 2:28 pm
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One day in the hopefully far away future when Billy is not there to yell Boomer! Hopefully in his honor one of the other winners will wipe away a tear and break the silence with, "BOOMER".
Kris, Nashville - Dec 17, 2008 at 2:04 pm
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I thought for sure I was reading a Jenni Carlson attempt at journalism and then I check the author and it is John Rohde. This is a step down for you JR.
bingo, Jenks - Dec 17, 2008 at 12:26 pm
Go Billy!!!!! Keep yelling it. Next year Sam can join you!!!! I am glad that there is at least one true Sooner besides myself.
Coach Meade
Terry, Mesquite - Dec 17, 2008 at 9:55 am
Boomer! Boomer! Boomer! Boomer! Boomer! Boomer! Boomer! Boomer! Boomer! Boomer! Boomer! Proud to be a Sooner and proud of each Heisman from Oklahoma.
Robert, Denver - Dec 17, 2008 at 8:33 am
My lord, this is our Billy Sims; a true treasure for the state of Oklahoma. I am certain that young Sam probably grew up with bedtime stories of Billy's grid iron derring-do and, as such, Billy may have been the spark that drew a child's heart to love OU. Ashamed of Billy? Never. I can no more divorce myself from Billy Sims than I can from Oklahoma. As for me, I care not what those in the Nokia Auditorium did or did not do; when Billy yelled "Boomer", I yelled back at the TV, "Sooner." As that instant, a tear welled in my eye as I remebered all that OU football has meant to me. Billy, we love and are most proud, then and today, of you. Most sole regret is that you did not yell, "Bring back Barry" as Switzer could build a defense in a way Stoops will never understand. G-d bless OU and no one else.
- Dec 17, 2008 at 6:56 am
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I for one love all the nonsense that billy has caused! That just means another sooner won the Heisman! BOOMER SOONER! I welcome more outburst in years to come! 39-33 BOOMER SOONER
cooter and joe SUX!, duncan - Dec 17, 2008 at 2:59 am
One other thing, let's get real. 5 Heismans from OU in HISTORY. How many more times do you think Billy will get to yell that. 2 in 3 or 4 years isn't all that common at OU haha.
Shepard, Stonewall - Dec 16, 2008 at 11:41 pm
Anyone know what color Jerseys OU will be wearing at the big game?

Red or White?
Shepard, Stonewall - Dec 16, 2008 at 11:39 pm
Rohde, Trammel, Rodgers and all the jealous people, aggie bred or not need to shut up. OU has been a power and a good one without the amateurs that write against OU and their large Family. Billy Sims was the special back that naysayers couldn't stand back when he played. They still can't stand him, and they won't shut him up. They couldn't stand it when he ran up and down Owen Field hardly touched. Send Rohde back to Colorado where he came from, Trammell back to Oz, Rodgers back to Stillwater, and OU will be a stronger power. Reporters like them turn the National Media against us more than they already are. We will stomp Florida and their star Tebo January 8th! Tebo, McCoy remember there is not such a thing as a good loser....you are still losers!!! Boomer that in your pipe and smoke it!
Joe Bill Moad
joe bill, yukon - Dec 16, 2008 at 10:16 pm
John Rohde, sports columnist, yeah right, YOU SUCK!!!!!!!!!!!!
Chris, perryton - Dec 16, 2008 at 10:02 pm
Another moronic article making a mountain out of a molehill, ranks right up there with the articles about the quiet crowds at OMS. Dumb.
Gary, Oklahoma City - Dec 16, 2008 at 9:53 pm
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Billy Sims was just electric! If you didn't get him within 5 yds. of the line of scrimage it was good bye! Adrian Peterson is the only OU back I can remember that could equal Billy in power and speed! Can't wait until Jan. 8 when OU punks out Florida!!! Here's a Boomer back to Billy
Bill, Columbus - Dec 16, 2008 at 9:31 pm
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I challenge you CLOWNS in the OKLAHOMAN sports department to a football game against some of US REAL OU FANS. IF we win, you jokers resign! IF you win, I never write again to remind you dimwits what pathetic journalists and football critics you are. Several of you pinheads know my email, so please email me if you have the courage to accept my challenge. Make my day!
Jerry, Atlanta - Dec 16, 2008 at 9:02 pm
Living in Texas or as others have noted ... outside of Oklahoma... it is refreshing & sometimes surprising to hear the "BOOMER". You knew it was coming from Billy, just not 11 times. I walked into work on monday & was greeted by atleast 5 people who said BOOMER, all of them Aggies (T A&M) who were glad to see Sam win. So what if Billy had too much fun...
Jeanie, Wichita Falls - Dec 16, 2008 at 8:14 pm
Let me guess, the same Sooner fans who are calling out Billy for a lack of Class are probably the same Sooner fans who disrespectfully disgrace the National Anthem? Yes, you know those Classless individuals who end our Country's National song with...... and he home of "The Sooners"! What a bunch of hypocretes!

Jim
Jim, Texas - Dec 16, 2008 at 7:16 pm
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Just a word to the wise. The Heisman is as much a team award as it is an individual. To praise Sam for his deflection of accolades is a tribute to this idea. So, yes, Sam deserves all the class in the world for his humility, as well as his poise and production on the gridiron. Let us all remember that SammyB would be the first to express how much this award belongs to OU football as much as himself. So, here's to you Billy: Sooner!!!
Francis, Flagstaff - Dec 16, 2008 at 7:09 pm
BOOMER
James, Wichita - Dec 16, 2008 at 7:01 pm
Billy if you see this comment I`am proud of you, don`t say you`re sorry ever again for showing pride and love for OKLAHOMA, If it comes from the heart it all right don`t let anyone tell you different!!!!!! BOOMER,BOOMER,BOOMER,BOOMER,BOMMER,BOOMER,BOOMER,BOOMER,BOOMER,BOOMER,BOOMER.......Makes Eleven
Ernest - Dec 16, 2008 at 6:58 pm
I WISH I OWNED THE OKLAHOMAN.....I WOULD HAVE FIRED TRAMMEL AND RHODES MANY YEARS AGO....THEY HAVE TO BE THE BOTTOM OF THE BARREL AS JOURNALISTS GO...THE NEAREST TO A FOOTBALL GAME THEY HAVE EVER BEEN, IS 50 ROWS UP AND NOT EVEN ON THE 50 YARD LINE!!!!

THAT IS THE REASON I QUIT THE OKLAHOMAN YEARS AGO ...I READ THEIR ARTICLE'S THIS TIME OUT OF CURIOSITY...NEVER AGAIN!! GUESS I AM A SLOW LEARNER;HOWEVER THERE IS A TIME AND PLACE FOR EVER
THING AND THIS IS THE TIME FOR TRAMMEL AND RHODES TO LEAVE THE GREAT STATE OF OKLAHOMA!!!! BOOMER SOONER ...BOOMER SOONER
wayne, kingston - Dec 16, 2008 at 6:49 pm
SOONER fans I find this article so ironic. Rhode says Sam deserved some class in return, I could not agree with that more. Here comes the ironic part we all knew the story about Adrian Peterson's father. It had been told and repeated many times before his release. The story in this very same newspaper the Sunday after AD's father attended his first game started " with his ex-con father sitting in the stands Adrian Peterson". Now you want to talk about no class, that article has stayed with me ever since it was written.That comment was totally classless and unnecessary. Now this paper wants to get on their high horse and act all offended. Who decides at the DOK who deserves respect?
Danny, Del City - Dec 16, 2008 at 6:47 pm
I have never been embarrassed when a man attains such lofty goals and expectations, such as winning a Heisman Trophy.
We bleed and cry Crimson. Most true OKLAHOMA do. When we fail we mourn, when we win, we all celebrate OUr victory and triumph. That's what being a fan means to us all!

Class can never be bought, not sold, nor stolen, nor borrowed. It comes from inside each and every one of us.
Pride is class, negativity is malignant and a disgrace to all who spew it's contempt.

You Sir, can never speak of class, when you have none inside you, yourself!!!

BOOMER SOONER!
BILL, MIDWEST CITY - Dec 16, 2008 at 6:15 pm
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If we made "CLASS" a requirement for the local media, none of you CLOWNS would have jobs!
Jerry, Atlanta - Dec 16, 2008 at 5:28 pm
I suppose that we all have the right to post an opinion and yet all I can hope is that OU will take all of the negative remarks as a motivating factor to continue to play solidly and come out on top...again Sooners are amazing!
Grace, Las Cruces - Dec 16, 2008 at 5:23 pm
Billy grow back your afro so you stand taller in the face of these insults!
Michael, coppell - Dec 16, 2008 at 4:58 pm
Maybe Rohde needs to get some class and quit writing negative stories about OU Alumni unless it is warranted!
Todd, Casa Grande - Dec 16, 2008 at 4:32 pm
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Local Media. Shut up. We are a state of 3 Million. The bigger states of Florida and Texas have gotten the national media to beat us up on everything, not good enough, piling up points, blah blah blah. We won the freakin Heisman. Billy was proud and did what a lot of us do yelled Boomer. It is not embarassing it is just fun. Grow a pair and be proud of our team and its history. We have no reason to apologize to anyone. As a life long Sooner. I watched Billy Sims as the best in the game as a kid and Sam Bradfor as the best in the game as an adult.

Boomer!
Jon, Norman - Dec 16, 2008 at 4:30 pm
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FISH WRAPPER!
Mark, Tulsa - Dec 16, 2008 at 4:01 pm
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My great grandfathers were Boomers. I have lived in Florida since 1974. My "Sooner" children were born and raised in Florida and have lived here their whole lives. Anytime OU scores I get a text message from each of them with "Boomer" and I promptly respond "Sooner"... When Billy yelled "Boomer" at Jason's party I yelled "Sooner"...same thing for Sam. Try living in the land of Gators, Seminoles and Hurricanes for 33 years and you will learn to appreciate a rousing "Boomer Sooner" chant! Props to Dr. Ron from Norman and Dave in Irving for telling it like it is...
Larry, Saint Petersburg - Dec 16, 2008 at 3:52 pm
Trammel, Brent Musburger, Lee Corso, etc, are all super negative to and about Oklahoma University and the Sooners and soooo high on Texas and Florida ... so to them, take Texas, Florida, even Norte Dame and go fly a kite.....OU, Coach Stoops, Sam Bradford, DeMarco Murray and the rest of the Sooner team have everything to be proud of themselves about. Huge Class Act....go Sooners.
Grace, Las Cruces - Dec 16, 2008 at 3:50 pm
The only sad thing about Oklahoma is the newspaper, The Daily Oklahoman with Rhode and Tramel. For Sooner fans everywhere we proudly declare BOOMER SOONER. Way to go Sensational Sam! We're proud of you. You are in good company with Vessels, Owens, Sims, and White, all class acts, unlike the newspaper that is now the proper size to line bird cages.
Jerry, Oklahoma City - Dec 16, 2008 at 3:50 pm
Yes, 11 was probably too much, but really...who cares? Maybe we can give him a quota next year when Sam wins it again. All I know is every time I hear Billy yell Boomer it means we won!
Diane, Edmond - Dec 16, 2008 at 3:47 pm
Oh what nonsense; jumping all over Billy Sims. How many apologies are necessary? Sam himself could have been a bit more to the point wiht his rambling remarks. No harm, no fautl. People need to stop beating up Billy Sims. Let's just see OU not talk smack, let Stoops show shome sidelines class, and let's beat Flordia with a dominant defense. Then talk.
Stuart, Brooklyn - Dec 16, 2008 at 3:32 pm
I don't understand the need to end a story the way Rohde did. How many ways or times does someone need to apologize? Sure it's a bit embarassing, but who cares?! Both Sims and Owens acknowledged it was because of his love for OU. This is obviously a dead period in the sports world when that instance in garnering so much attention.
Craig, Bixby - Dec 16, 2008 at 3:03 pm
Everytime Billy yelled BOOMER last Saturday night, everyone at my house yelled SOONER like we always do whenever we hear it, and we laughed at the "Sooner or later" comment by Billy, then we replayed it and then replayed it again and again and yelled it again and again, and all of my household, which is American Indian, gave it up for our brother Sam, after we rejoiced at Billy antics, and after we gave thanks for such a wonderful evening...this is Sooners being a Sooners!!! We are so very fortunate to have four Heisman winners on the same stage, I was feeling so proud at that moment. Then came ESPN and their very disrespectful comments about Tebow and his 1st place votes and then all the sorry journalists who keep harping on Billy, Billy, Billy, and now all the articles about Billy and not Sam...where is your head at, Rohde? Same place as Tramel's, I suppose...look at the negative controversy, don't you just love this sorry paper?
Dr Ron, Norman - Dec 16, 2008 at 2:10 pm
BTW, you wouldn't know class if it bite you on the ___!!!!
BILL, MIDWEST CITY - Dec 16, 2008 at 1:47 pm
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Keep it up Rhode----------Between the trash writing of schmucks like you and Trauma Tramel, plus the downright crappy customer/delivery service of this rag, it won't be long before I make damn sure I no longer have to read this garbage journalism!!!

Oh, and by the way, you look fat---------GO ON A LONGGGGGGGGGG VACATION AND LOSE SOME WEIGHT!!!!!!
BILL, MIDWEST CITY - Dec 16, 2008 at 1:44 pm
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It was cool to hear Tebow argue with Todd McShay of ESPN about him playing QB in the pros...haha...it went something like this:

McShay: You're so good with the ball in your hands

Tebow: And the quarterback always has the ball in his hands so...
Zach, Perkins - Dec 16, 2008 at 1:14 pm
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I dunno Russ...if you ask Tramel, Bradford's only the fourth best QB in OU history...

What a joke. I'll give you Jack Mildren in a wishbone, but Bradford's by far the best TRUE quarterback in OU history.
Zach, Perkins - Dec 16, 2008 at 1:12 pm
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Tebow is a good guy and a good qb. However, contrary to popular ESPN belief, he is not God's gift to football. I am glad Sam won, not only because he is a Sooner, that's the main reason, of course, but because I was sick of hearing about "Tebow and company' instead of the Florida Gators.

Back on topic...

BOOMER!
PhilHam, Oklahoma City - Dec 16, 2008 at 1:10 pm
rohde: again, read all the comments that are negative about your article and the classless espn crew. who should apologize? I think you and your puppet masters at espn are the ones that owe an apology. I can't wait until the ncg. I hope OU blows fu out of the park. that would be son funny. what excuse would you (rohde) and the espn crew have then.
Brian, Owasso - Dec 16, 2008 at 1:04 pm
Rhode...shut up.

If multiple former OU players and Heisman winners, that know him a heck of a lot better than you, stand up for him and tell you repeatedly that's how he expresses himself and his pride...listen to them.

No one should think any less of Sims for his action. He has more pride in OU than most of Sooner Nation, if not all. At least Owens could see that.
Zach, Perkins - Dec 16, 2008 at 1:03 pm
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To echo an earlier comment: The true "disrespect" shown at the ceremony was by the talking heads of ESPN. I can not get over how off color it was to state that Tebow had more first place votes, within seconds of Sam finishing his acceptance speech. I mean, I'm like most, it's hard to dislike Tebow, but the fact is; he shouldn't have even been in New York. His stats absolutely paled to Graham Harrell's. Shoot, I think Joe Ganz probably had better stats than Tebow!
Todd, Sunrise Beach - Dec 16, 2008 at 12:59 pm
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I was born in Norman, Ok and lived there until 18. I am a die-hard OU fan since I was born and will be until the day I die. I like the way everyone says Billy should have acted like he had some sense and shown class on the National Stage and represent Oklahoma with dignity. Personally, I don't know if you have been reading any of the insulting articles written by quite a few of the jounalists here in Texas about Oklahomans, especially Nick Gholson with the Wichita Falls paper (Dec 3-4), or all other sports writers, save Oklahoma ones, all of whom believes we got to the Championship game due to the computer carrying a two rather than a one. I think it is about time someone out there showed some spirit for a team we all have and will love through better or worse without the Coach Stoops having to call them out. Heck, weddings are planned around the OU/Texas game and we should just act like quiet, aristocratic stiff-necks when one of our own wins the highest award in collegiate football? You will have to forgive us low class Okies, because when Billy was shouting "BOOMER" on stage this past Saturday, all of my family watching raised our drinks and said "SOONER." No offense, but I am an Okie and Sooner whether getting made fun of by Texas fans in Texas after a 45-35 loss on a "neutral field" or after a player on my team wins the Heisman. Besides, it is not like Billy was at a funeral shouting "BOOMER", why don't you write about something that matters, John, like Demarco Murray possibly being out for the Championship game?
Dave, Irving - Dec 16, 2008 at 12:55 pm
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rohde: why dont you go beg espn for a job. they would love ignorant people like you on their staff. you would fit in perfectly. if you don't understand the pride of BOOMER SOONER by now you never will. I am embaressed that on game day in norman their are a number of people that will not respond to a BOOMER. now you can write and article on how displeased people are with your articles. you are an embaressment to oklahoma.
Brian, Owasso - Dec 16, 2008 at 12:45 pm
At least Billy Sims was well-intentioned. It was ESPN and their commentators who showed a lack of class and respect for Sam Bradford with their continued braying about Tim Tebow deserving the Heisman instead of whom the 800+ voters chose.
Sheryl, Oklahoma City - Dec 16, 2008 at 12:37 pm
SEE WHY SAM BRADFORD WON THE HEISMAN!!
CLICK ON THE LINKS
http://www.ioffer.com/i/84269396
http://www.ioffer.com/i/85106046
http://www.ioffer.com/i/86593481
GO SOONERS! WIN THE BCS!!!
DJ, NINEVEH - Dec 16, 2008 at 12:27 pm
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OU Fan....Steve Owens said he did not have a problem with it...it is okay.

America...Steve Owens, who is that? Who cares what he has to say it is innappropriate.

OSU fan....Billy is an idiot, a loser, a dead beat dad.....

2 out of 3 isn't bad. Right Sooner fans.
GH, Cowboyville - Dec 16, 2008 at 12:08 pm
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BOOMER!!!!!!!!!

nuff said.
william, destin - Dec 16, 2008 at 12:03 pm
It's a natural reaction to "Boomer"....Hollywood & Vine 2004 yelling out the window to Sooner fans walking along the sidewalk, Boomer Sooner....if you love OU that's just how we like to respond....like it or not, it is after all OUr battle cry.....go Sooners....
Grace, Las Cruces - Dec 16, 2008 at 11:59 am
If you want classless, try the ESPN announcement that Tebow received more first place votes, the second Bradford finished his speech. Billy Sims loves OU and the real Sooner Nation loves him. Everyone else and all the media can kiss our arses!
Volk, Roswell - Dec 16, 2008 at 11:55 am
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We love Billy, and Steve, Jason and Sam, and all the others, and texas still ....sux
Joe Bob, Norman - Dec 16, 2008 at 11:53 am
Kevin in Stillwater - do you think OU is the only place that another word is injected into the end of the national anthem? If so, you need to get out of Payne County a little more often! Go, Billy! Go, Steve! Go, Jason! Go, Sam! (We miss you Billy Vessels) At this time of the year sounds like Santa hollaring to his sleigh! Well, we only have three more Heisman winners to make an eight member team! Ha!! Merry Christmas all - and BOOMER SOONER!!!
Pam, Elgin - Dec 16, 2008 at 11:30 am
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FU Rohde!!! And F anyone on here or any message board that has a problem w/ Billy Sims. Billy has earned the right to say "Boomer" when he wants too. Anyone that has a problem can stop cheering for the Sooners & go be a cowgirl fan where their lone Heisman winner never shows up for the award! At least Bill has some school pride. How many other past winners yell their school tradition to the new award winner? NONE!

This article is classless!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Billy, you go & do what you do. And I assure you any Sooner fan would be glad/proud to yell "Sooner" back to your "Boomer"...
SoonerBornSoonerBred, Dallas - Dec 16, 2008 at 11:05 am
Thanks to all the BOOMER SOONER faithful out there for supporting Mr Sims. No apology necessary Billy. You will always be respected and loved by SOONER FANS everywhere. Thanks for the memories. Those of us who were fortunate enough to see you play will never forget you.
Ron, Bartlesville - Dec 16, 2008 at 11:04 am
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right on steve owens on behalf of billy sims no better words spoken
ron, wynnewood - Dec 16, 2008 at 10:55 am
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Sam's dad Kent, blocked for Billy Sims on OU's offensive line during Billy's Heisman season. Billy was extra "excited" for Kent Bradford's son to win the award. That's all! It was a over the top for me, but who am I? I'm glad that Billy's a proud Sooner! Go Billy! Billy's barbeque is good too, especially the Arkansas Steak!
Jeff, Tulsa - Dec 16, 2008 at 10:47 am
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This is the first time I have ever left a comment on this site. I read them from time to time. Billy Sims was a bit out of line, but the reason I write is because of the man named KEVIN, Stillwater and his comment. It is truly sad that The Cowboy fans and their team are so insignificant they find their only worth in commenting in a negative way about the Sooners triumphs. What a pitiful life!
Scott, Broken Bow - Dec 16, 2008 at 10:34 am
In an article earlier this week, Tramel called Billy a clown. No matter what you think of his "Boomer" calls, to call Billy a clown is disrespectful and Tramel should apologize for it, in the paper.
My personal opinion, yes it was mildly irritating. But that's just Billy being Billy. He meant no disrespect, quite the opposite. He respects the traditions of OU football. And as one has already said, this is not a funeral. Why not celebrate?
As to this made up argument that Billy's actions take the spotlight off of Sam, contrived to support the writers argument. Thats all. So go ahead Billy. Let it out.
tom, Lawton - Dec 16, 2008 at 10:34 am
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Judy, I couldn't agree more. This was a ceremony to present a sports award, I feel no shame in someone getting caught up in the excitement.
Rhonda, Euless - Dec 16, 2008 at 10:24 am
Jerry Springer is so proud of yOUr fan base.

Pathetic.
Jake, oklahoma city - Dec 16, 2008 at 10:23 am
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First, and most importantly, I'm proud of Sam Bradford. Sam is the greatest Q'back to ever play at OU and a great young man. Second, I'm proud of Billy Sims. If a transplanted Texan can become a life-long and excited Sooner. If a boy from Hooks, Texas can feel this way about his team decades later. And if this Heisman winner can be this "turned on" about the heritage of OU, then cut him a little slack. He's earned it.

Wayne in Arkansas
Russ, Little Rock - Dec 16, 2008 at 10:23 am
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Sam was very classy and handled the difficult situation very well.
Lynn, tulsa - Dec 16, 2008 at 10:22 am
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Its just like when you say sooner at the end of the national anthem, you say its not disrespect, its total disrespect!! Ask the thousands of people putting their life on the line everyday for this country. Get some class!!
Kevin, Stillwater - Dec 16, 2008 at 10:16 am
me too philip.....BOOOMER!!!
DARYL, SALLISAW - Dec 16, 2008 at 9:32 am
Had I been there, I would have joined in with every ounce of energy I have. It's not disrespect, it's who we are. I can almost guarantee you that neither Jason White, or Sam Bradford had any problem with it whatsoever. Some people just need to let loose and relax a little.
PhilHam, Oklahoma City - Dec 16, 2008 at 9:23 am
At the moment I thought it was a a little "over the top",but in no way did I feel Billy Sims was disrespectful. Now after reflecting on what happened and with neither the Heisman Trust nor Sam and his parents having no problem with it, let's move on. BOOMER SOONER!!!
Gary, Oklahoma City - Dec 16, 2008 at 9:20 am
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Hey Billy!

Boomer
Sooner
Boomer
Sooner
Boomer
Sooner

As many times as you want brother.
news, Shawnee - Dec 16, 2008 at 9:18 am
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sam is lucky I wasnt there. I would have said "boomer" 12 times in 12 seconds.
jordan, the woodlands - Dec 16, 2008 at 9:17 am
The Heisman awards presentation is neither a funeral nor the anointing of a saint, so maybe everyone in the room could lighten up a little. Hooray for Billy Sims for being honest in his excitement. If local sports and editorial writers were embarrassed by him, they should ask themselves who the heck they think they are! After all, Mr. Sims earned the right to attend the banquet with his peers; his critics are merely peering through the window at someone else's party. judy
judy, Oklahoma City - Dec 16, 2008 at 9:12 am
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I was real suprised I didn't hear a horn fan with OU sucks, could Colt possibly hadto much class?
don, Lafayette - Dec 16, 2008 at 9:09 am
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Mr. Rohde... Thank you, for being a CLASS ACT (Unlike TRAMEL!) and doing research about this topic, before you commented on it.

Now, would you please remind folks, that it takes a big person, to apologize (Like Billy Sims has, even though it was NOT necessary!) but that people, who will not accept an apology and KEEP THEIR FRIGGIN' MOUTHS SHUT about the subject of apology, are DOUCHE BAGS, at best! YES! TRAMEL IS A DOUCHE BAG!!
P, Sulphur - Dec 16, 2008 at 8:28 am
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Billy if you read this,way to go. For the other people who posted here,thank you for having good sense to understand what happened and what some of the press is trying to do. When Tramel first posted his tripe filled article on Saturday night I was the first to post a comment against his writings and in support of Billy Sims. It got deleted sometime Sunday. I still believe Billy was OK with his actions and that some of the media are more worried about their own image than anything.
Billy this is for you SOONER SOONER SOONER SOONER SOONER SOONER SOONER SOONER SOONER
Steve, Ketchum - Dec 16, 2008 at 8:23 am
BOOMER! BOOMER! BOOMER! BOOMER! BOOMER! BOOMER! BOOMER! BOOMER! BOOMER! BOOMER! BOOMER! (SOONER!). Hey Rohde, loosen the butt muscles a little and let Billy be Billy. I'm sure you’re not concerned that Sam deserved "class"; class is not given, it is shown. Sam showed class and Billy showed his love for OU. What makes you mad is that this will somehow tarnish Oklahoma's image in which you live and that your associates will view YOU as somehow connected to such behavior. Nobody cares about your elitist status and what your journalist friends around the country might think. God Bless Billy Sims. I wish there were more genuine people like him and less pompous journalists.
John, Tulsa - Dec 16, 2008 at 8:04 am
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Had I been in attendance, I'd have responded with a screaming "sooner." We're sooners, thats what we do, just as those unfortunate enough to be texas fans throw their horns up. People need to lighten up. Billy Sims has been nothing but great for the university and has earned the right to yell boomer anytime.
Jumbo, Norman - Dec 16, 2008 at 8:01 am
Ok people if STEVE OWENS has no problem with it get off it people.
Pat, Grand Prairie - Dec 16, 2008 at 7:56 am
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Owens' is a true gentleman.
Mark, Overland Park - Dec 16, 2008 at 7:54 am
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As a 1961 grad living in Mesa, AZ, I am delighted when greeted by a "Boomer". Billy Sims was and still is one of the great OU players and supporters.

BOOMER SOONER!!!
jay, Mesa - Dec 16, 2008 at 7:41 am
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It's a tradition. It will be ok. Billy, just keep doing what your doing. It's good to be proud of your school. Way to go Sam. BOOMER SOONER!!!!
Brennon, Granbury - Dec 16, 2008 at 7:03 am
It must have been a slow news day for Billy's comments to have made such an impact.
Don, Hooker
Don, Hooker - Dec 16, 2008 at 6:42 am
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Lighten up a bit. Let it go. It's Tuesday morning. Find something better to. BOOMER! I know you're out there Billy.
Dennis - Dec 16, 2008 at 6:15 am
Yeah, it was fine. Maybe a little over the top, but not bad at all. Everyone laughed when they shouted out Sooner or Later we'll get ya! It was a fun little moment. OU Press needs to relax.
Ed, San Jose - Dec 16, 2008 at 5:37 am
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There wasn't any disrespect here. Sims may need to tone it down a little, but he was just excited that yet another Sooner got the award.

Boomer Sooner Baby!!
Patrick, Fayetteville - Dec 16, 2008 at 5:10 am
Billy, I respect and appreciate you for the way you have conducted yourself over the years. Keep being the Billy Sims we love and respect. OU is the better for you being a integral part of the family/ I will not criticize a solid citizen for displaying support for the university be both love.
Thomas, lawton - Dec 16, 2008 at 1:53 am
I watched it and I don't feel that Sims disrespected Sam in any way shape or form. How is it disrespectful to be excited about it when a player and the school that you care about win such a prestigous award? Sure it was a little over the top but disrespectful it was not. I get tired of reading our sports writers knock our athletics for every reason they can find. Sure if something needs to be written about the Kelvin Sampson scandal when he was here, but to criticize a Sooner ledgend for being hyped about Bradford winning is just dumb. As usual it shows the lack of creativity the Oklahoman writers have when it comes to creating stories for us to read.
Brandon, Edmond - Dec 16, 2008 at 12:24 am

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