ESPN SHOCKER: OU’s Toby Rowland Crowned Best Play-by-Play Announcer in College Sports
In a stunning announcement that has left the college sports world buzzing, ESPN has officially named Oklahoma Sooners play-by-play voice Toby Rowland the Best Play-by-Play Announcer in College Sports. This prestigious honor, awarded after a nationwide vote by media professionals and fans alike, cements Rowland’s status as one of the most captivating and influential voices in the industry.
For more than a decade, Rowland has been the soundtrack of Oklahoma athletics, delivering electrifying calls that have immortalized unforgettable moments on the field and court. Known for his spine-tingling enthusiasm, sharp storytelling, and deep connection to the Sooners community, Rowland’s broadcasts go far beyond describing the action—they capture the heartbeat of the game.
ESPN’s accolade marks the first time an Oklahoma broadcaster has claimed the top spot in this category. The network praised Rowland for “a rare combination of authenticity, energy, and technical excellence,” noting that his work consistently resonates with audiences well beyond the state of Oklahoma.
“Toby doesn’t just call plays—he paints pictures,” ESPN’s awards statement read. “His voice carries the electricity of the stadium and the emotion of every fan watching at home.”
Rowland’s journey to this milestone has been anything but ordinary. A former television sports anchor and radio host, he took over as the voice of the Sooners in 2011, stepping into a role once held by the legendary Bob Barry Sr. and Bob Barry Jr. In the years since, he has developed a style uniquely his own—equal parts precision, passion, and personality.
From calling last-second touchdowns in the Red River Rivalry to narrating buzzer-beaters in March Madness, Rowland has delivered moments that fans replay for years. One of his most famous calls—his euphoric description of Kyler Murray’s game-winning touchdown against Texas—still circulates on social media every football season.
In accepting the award, Rowland expressed deep gratitude to the university, the fans, and his colleagues. “This is an incredible honor,” he said. “Every time I put on the headset, I feel a responsibility to represent the University of Oklahoma and its amazing supporters. To be recognized by ESPN in this way is humbling, and I’m just grateful I get to do what I love every single day.”
Current and former Sooners athletes took to social media to congratulate him, with Heisman winner Baker Mayfield tweeting, “Nobody does it better. Congrats, Toby!” OU head football coach Brent Venables echoed the sentiment, calling Rowland “a true ambassador for the program.”
The award adds to Rowland’s growing list of accolades, but for Sooners fans, it simply reaffirms what they’ve known for years—that their voice is one of the very best in the nation.
As OU athletics prepare for another high-stakes football season and the looming move to the SEC, one thing is certain: with Toby Rowland on the mic, every play will be told with unmatched passion and precision. For college sports broadcasting, the bar has just been set even higher.
