J.D. Roberts

Bio

J. D. Roberts was one of the most honored players of his time. He played right guard on offense for Oklahoma 1951-1952. When the rules were changed in 1953, he became a two-way performer. In the Colorado game, he blocked a punt that led to an Oklahoma victory. He made the consensus All-America teams and was the first to sweep all the awards given a lineman - the Outland Trophy and Lineman of the Year with Associated Press, United Press, Fox Movietone News, and Williamson Syndicate. As Oklahoma's best blocker, he helped the team win the national rushing championship. His coach, Bud Wilkinson, said he had "extraordinary ability, speed, and tremendous desire." Oklahoma went 25-4-2 in his three years. After college, Roberts was a lieutenant in the U. S. Marines, then was assistant coach at Oklahoma, Denver, Navy, Auburn, and Houston. He was head coach of the New Orleans Saints, 1970-1972, then went into the oil and gas business. He was president of the Oklahoma Lettermen's club in 1989. In summing up his career in 1993, Roberts said, "I'll always be a Sooner."

Career Highlights

• 1953 All-Conference
• 1953 Consensus All-America
• 1953 Heisman - Eighth
• 1953 Outland Trophy Winner
• 1952 All-Conference