Billy Sims

Billy Sims (born September 18, 1955) is a former NFL Pro Bowl running back. Sims grew up in St. Louis but in the eighth grade, moved to Hooks, Texas, where he truly blossomed into a star. In 1975, he was recruited to the University of Oklahoma by Barry Switzer. While there, he picked up 1762 yards on 231 carries for an amazing average of 7.6 yards per carry. In 1978, Sims was awarded the Heisman Trophy and was the runner up in 1979. He also became the first running back to rush for 300 yards on three consecutive games in Big 8 Conference history.

As expected in the 1980 NFL Draft, Sims was the first overall pick. He spent five years with the Detroit Lions, making the Pro Bowl in 1980, 1981, and 1982. Sims finished his career with 1131 carries for 5106 yards (4.5 yards per carry), and 186 receptions for 2072 yards (11.1 yards per carry).

After his retirement, Sims went into a downward spiral, filing for bankrupcy, and a divorce from his first wife, and a 1999 conviction for assaulting his second wife. Sims moved to Norman, Oklahoma, after his first divorce, where for a short period of time, he worked in the Oklahoma athletic department. But troubles there forced him to quit. But back in Hooks, there is a road named for Billy Sims, the Billy Sims Road, and their library wall is adorned with photos of Billy Sims.