Vessels, Billy from Oklahoma History

Born March 22, 1931, in Cleveland, Oklahoma, was Billy Vessels the fine halfback from the Oklahoma Sooners. The City of Dallas has hosted the annual Oklahoma versus Texas football contest many times of the years. In 1950 the game became extra special according to the National Football Foundation. Both teams were undefeated and looking to stake claim as the top team in the country. Sophomore Billy Vessels has become a great weapon in Oklahoma's backfield. On this day he scored two touchdowns, the last with four minutes to play, to lead Oklahoma to a 14-13 victory. This sent the Longhorns to their only loss of the season. Six weeks later he rushed for 208 yards and three touchdowns as the Sooners outlasted Nebraska, 49-35, a game that clinched the National Championship for Oklahoma. The two rivals finished one and two in the final UP poll. But this was just the start of Bill Vessel's brilliant career! Vessels would go on to receive consensus All-America credit in 1952, and became Oklahoma's first Heisman Trophy winner for the performances in his senior year. Billy’s career statistics included 35 touchdowns with 210 points for an amazing 2085 yards rushing. He had 1072 yards rushing just in 1952, alone.! The NFF voters seized the opportunity in 1974 to place Billy Vessels into the College Football Hall of Fame.

Dive into the gridiron greats with this collection of articles exploring the lives and legacies of American college football Hall of Fame players. Each piece delves into the on-field heroics that secured their place in history, from jaw-dropping touchdowns to strategic brilliance. But these articles go beyond the stats, uncovering the personal stories that shaped these legends. You'll discover their journeys from high school prospects to national stars, the challenges they overcame, and the impact they left on the game they loved. Whether you're a die-hard fan or simply appreciate sporting excellence, this collection offers a captivating look at the men who forever changed the landscape of college football.

The College Football Hall of Fame is a hall of fame and interactive attraction devoted to college football. The National Football Foundation members select historic players, coaches, and contributors who rose above their peers in collegiate gridiron history to their College Football Hall of Fame. We are happy to help this legendary museum celebrate the stars and innivators of the gridiron with these individual tributes.