Toby Keith was not only a fan-favorite country musician but also a proud Oklahoma native and staunch Oklahoma University Sooner football fan. Prior to his passing in February of 2024, Keith articulated his affinity for the Sooners on a plethora of different occasions. Furthermore, his fandom never petered out after his passing, as OU has been keeping his legacy and love of the Sooners alive by playing his music after the third quarter of their home games.
Videos by American Songwriter
Throughout his career, Keith was very connected with the OU football team, and his main connection was seemingly through OU’s legendary football coach, Barry Switzer. For context, Barry Switzer coached the Sooners from 1973 to 1988. During that time, he won twelve Big Eight championships and led the team to 13 bowl games.
Following his departure from the Sooners, Switzer went on to coach the Dallas Cowboys. Though he returned to OU for an alumni football game, that is where he met and formed a relationship with Toby Keith. Specifically, Switzer formed a relationship with Keith after insisting that he not participate in the game. Well, Keith refused, and consequently, he took on a bit of damage from the big boys in maroon.
Toby Keith Had To Join the Action
In 1994, Toby Keith was at the height of his popularity and taking over the country music scene. He was a hot commodity, and many people’s careers were seemingly riding on his. However, that didn’t stop him from being a bit rambunctious and reckless. Hence, Keith was gung-ho on participating in the OU alumni game, even if he had a show that very night.
Concerning Keith’s decision, Switzer recalled that he “told Toby right before the game, I was standing on the sidelines, I said, ‘Toby, don’t go out there, you’ll likely get hurt,’” per News 9.
“The first play, they broke his ankle,” Switzer hilariously concluded. “I would never let him get over it. He just got crushed.”
Following his injury, Keith stated on camera, “There goes the show in Tulsa tonight.”
Toby Keith was unable to perform for three weeks due to his injury. Though he told the Oklahoman that he’d “do it again.” There are so many reasons to love Toby Keith, and this is just one more to add to your list. Folks will always remember Keith for his music, but they will also remember him for his dedication to the Boomer Sooner football team.
Photo by Brian Bahr/Getty Images
Leave a Reply
Only members can comment. Become a member. Already a member? Log in.