Bob Simmons, the first and only Black head football coach in Oklahoma State history, passed away on Tuesday at age 72, the university announced. He guided the Cowboys for six seasons, most notably delivering an 8‑4 record in 1997 that earned a national ranking of No. 12 and an Alamo Bowl berth.

Bob Simmons' 1997 8‑4 season and Alamo Bowl berth

The 1997 campaign marked the high point of Simmons' tenure, as the Cowboys posted an 8‑4 record and climbed to No. 12 in the nation. That year they secured the program’s sole bowl appearance under his leadership,traveling to the Alamo Bowl – the school’s first bowl game in nearly a decade.

Big 12 Coach of the Year honor highlights 1997 success

Simmons’ turnaround earned him the Big 12 Coach of the Year award, a rare accolade for a first‑year coach at a program that had struggled under Pat Jones, who managed only two conference wins in the four seaosns before Simmons arrived. According to the school’s announcement, the honor underscored Simmons’ ability to revitalize a stagnant program.

Overall 30‑38 record and departure after the 2000 season

Despite the 1997 surge, Simmons finished his six‑year stint with a 30‑38 record, and the Cowboys failed to replicate that peak in subsequent years. He left the program after the 2000 season and was succeeded by Les Miles, marking Simmons’ only head‑coaching stop.

Assistant coaching pedigree includes 1990 Colorado national title

Before his head‑coaching role, Simmons spent decades as an assistant at powerhouses such as Notre Dame, Washington, Toledo and West Virginia. notably, he was the linebackers coach at Colorado in 1990 when the Buffaloes captured the national championship, a credential that bolstered his résumé.

Who will Oklahoma State honor Simmons' legacy?

The university has not yet detailed how it will commemorate Simmons’ contributions, leaving questions about potential jersey retirements, scholarships, or dedicated events. as the only Black head coach in OSU history, his legacy carries both athletic and cultural significance that fans and alumni are eager to see recognized.