Member Biography

Tom McDonald, a 5-9, 169-pounder, played at Highland High School in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and later became Bud Wilkinson's prize halfback, scoring touchdowns in 20 of 21 games during his junior and senior seasons. In 1955, McDonald became the first Sooner to score from scrimmage in every game. Wilkinson said McDonald's enthusiasm sparked a tremendous team spirit that made the other players always put forth a little extra. McDonald was one of the rare players who loved to practice and scrimmage as much as he loved to be in on every play in the big Saturday games. McDonald was the powerhouse in the Sooner offense because of his versatility. He was a fast and shrewd runner and could throw the ball on the run in the option play, making him a double threat off the Sooners' split-T. McDonald was All- America in 1955 and 1956. He joined the Philadelphia Eagles and starred as a pass receiver. McDonald in later years won fame as a portrait painter.