The Big Bang of Antonio Perkins

On a hot September Day in 2003, Antonio Perkins exploded into the NCAA record books. Yes, Perkins had already tallied 3 punt returns for touchdowns as a freshman in 2001-- but those were shorter, less exciting types of scores. His game against UCLA would make a much bigger statement.

Perkins had grown up in Lawton, where he starred as a cornerback and special teams player and continued that role in Norman. He turned into another one of the shutdown corners that Bob Stoops' staff had produced, but he was on a different level as a returner this afternoon.

Against UCLA, Perkins amassed 277 punt return yards (NCAA record) and scored on three punt returns (again NCAA record). The three scores were all 60+ yard returns and show his ability to change direction, break tackles and pure, unadulterated speed.

By the time he was finished in Norman, he was the school's all time punt return yardage leader and had tied Wes Welker of Texas Tech with the career number of punt return scores ( 8 ), while also amassing All Conference and All American honors.

Perkins was hampered by a knee injury in his final collegiate season and was drafted by the Cleveland Browns in the 4th round of the 2005 NFL Draft. He spent 2 seasons in northern Ohio before being released and signing with the Indianapolis Colts.