Coming off of five-straight seasons without a winning record and mediocre success for the six seasons prior to that by Oklahoma standards, Josh would quickly lead OU to a 7-5 record and a last second bowl game loss to Ole Miss under the tutelage of Mike Leach and Coach Stoops in his first season.
The following year, Heupel would lead The University of Oklahoma to a dream season, despite nagging injuries throughout the last half of the season, Heupel would lead OU to a 13-0 record and a National title upset of heavily favored Florida State and Heisman winner Chris Weinke who had barely beaten out Heupel for that award.
Heupel did win several awards that year including Big 12 offensive player of the year as well as Walter Camp and AP player of the year.
Josh was drafted in the sixth round following the 2000 season and while I have no doubt that he probably could have had a long NFL career, injuries led Josh to his true love, coaching and mentoring.
Since his brief NFL career ended Josh has coached at the University of Arizona and Oklahoma, most recently as the Quarterback coach of OU where he has helped mentor the careers of converted wide receiver Paul Thompson and Oklahoma high-school star Sam Bradford, the two led OU to three straight conference titles as the quarterback of OU with Bradford going for the fourth straight title this upcoming season.
Bradford did something under the watch of Heupel that his coach didn't do, that is winning the Heisman and leading the nation in passing efficiency his freshman and sophomore seasons.
While Heupels legend at OU is fully entrenched as a player and a coach, his biggest impact has been with The FCA and his No. 14 foundation where he helps feed families in need.
Heupel's faith in God has sculpted his life and it continues to provide the stability in his life and his motivation to continually reach above and beyond to do whats best for those around him.
Josh was recently married and still lives and coaches in Norman at The University of Oklahoma. Whether his future holds a big time head coaching job in college or simply working with his foundation, there is no doubt that Heupel will continue to impact lives in a positive manner while being highly successful.
*The Road to Glory by Josh Heupel was used for some references
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