East Texas A&M University Athletics

Football • 1981-84

Ricky Dirks was a standout running back for the Lions in his four years in Commerce. As a starting tailback for two and a half seasons, he helped the Lions to a 17-8 record and helped the team to the program's first Lone Star Conference Championship in 11 years in 1983. He rushed for 33 touchdowns and 3,189 yards in his career and also had a 67-yard touchdown pass. He had three games rushing for more than 200 yards, including a career-high 251 yards against Cameron in 1983.

Dirks rushed for 450 yards and six touchdowns as a freshman. He broke out as a starter in his sophomore season, rushing for 1,070 yards and nine touchdowns on his way to First Team All-Conference honors. He improved again in his junior year, rushing for 1,297 yards and 11 touchdowns. He again earned First Team All-Conference honors and was named a Second Team All-American by the Associated Press. Dirks was on his way to another stellar season as a senior, rushing for seven touchdowns in his first five games before an injury ended his Lion career. Although he missed half the 1984 season, he was awarded Second Team All-LSC honors. 

Dirks finished his career ranking high in several rushing categories. He was third in rushing yards, second in rushing touchdowns and sixth in yards per game.