Thomas Lott remains one of the University of Oklahoma’s most celebrated alumni.
A native of San Antonio, Texas, Thomas was a decorated multi-sport high school athlete and a Parade All-American quarterback. He earned a scholarship to the University of Oklahoma, where he was part of the 1975 National Championship team and served as the Sooners’ starting quarterback from 1976 to 1978. During his tenure, OU won three consecutive conference championships. Thomas also holds the distinction of being the first Black starting quarterback in the university’s history. He was a two-time All-Conference selection and was named Quarterback of the Year in 1978.

Drafted by the NFL’s St. Louis Cardinals, Thomas went on to play professionally before being inducted into the San Antonio Sports Hall of Fame in 2006, an honor accompanied by receiving the key to the city. In 2010, he was also inducted into the Texas High School Football Hall of Fame.

Following his football career, Thomas successfully transitioned into coaching and community leadership. Over the past 40 years, he has coached football, basketball, and track at every level, from youth leagues to the professional ranks, and has helped numerous athletes earn FBS and Division I scholarships. He currently resides in Oklahoma City, where he continues to coach and train athletes.

Thomas is also the author of Getting in the Game: A Parent’s Guide to Raising an Athlete and serves as a sports radio and internet personality. During football season, he co-hosts Coaches Cabana with legendary OU coach Barry Switzer.

The Wishbone Legacy

In the 1970s, the University of Oklahoma’s offense was unstoppable—and the secret weapon was the Wishbone Formation. This triple-option attack confused defenses, punished opponents on the ground, and became a hallmark of OU football dominance.

At the heart of it all? Quarterback Thomas Lott, a master at reading defenses, faking handoffs, and creating big plays from nothing. Known for his explosive speed, fearless leadership, and signature red bandana, Lott led the Sooners to glory while making the Wishbone a nightmare for opponents.

What is the Wishbone?

• Three running backs lined up behind the quarterback in a "Y" shape

• The quarterback can hand off, pitch, or keep the ball—forcing defenses to guess every play

• Requires precision, trust, and quick decision-making