NORMAN, Okla. – While officials in Norman are gearing up for game day, they are also planning a special tribute to a former Sooner football player.
Last month, Michael Winchester was shot and killed while walking to his car after finishing a shift with Southwest Airlines at Will Rogers World Airport.
Winchester’s murder stunned his community.
“What I’ve seen of Mike, he was a family man, great guy, loved his family, loved his kids, grandkids, was always there for them and with them at ball games,” said James Harryman, a family friend.
He was also known around the state for being a punter for the University of Oklahoma’s football team in the 1980s, including the squad that went on to win the national championship in 1985.
Now, his alma mater is planning to honor him during the Bedlam battle on Saturday.
According to OU’s Assistant Athletic Director Mike Houch, a special commercial flyover will take place before the game by a Southwest Airlines flight.
Kickoff is set for 11:30 a.m.