Sunday, December 31, 2006
Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and NotesStoops a candidate for NFL Falcons job? ESPN's NFL Insider Chris Mortensen, reported on Sunday NFL Countdown that Oklahoma's Bob Stoops is among the three candidates the Falcons owner, Arthur Blank is looking to replace current head coach Jim Mora. Remember in 2003, Stoops was also rumored for the job. We'll see... Closing the roof: The retractable roof at the University of Phoenix Stadium will be put to use Monday. The roof will be open for parachutists to descend through the opening shortly before kickoff, then close for the game. "We're doing it for fan comfort," said Shawn Schoeffler, Fiesta Bowl media relations liaison. "The game will kick off at 6:50 (7:50 central) and probably won't be over until after 10."(NewsOK.com)OU's Ah You Continues Fiesta Bowl Family Tradition: C.J. Ah You is carrying along a family tradition he didn’t even know about. The Oklahoma defensive end will be the third member of his family to play in the Fiesta Bowl. His uncle, Junior, won defensive MVP in the inaugural Fiesta Bowl in 1971 playing for Arizona State. His father, Charles, was a backup running back for BYU in the 1974 Fiesta Bowl. (East Valley Tribune)Birdine keeping it closed too: The last time Oklahoma defensive end Larry Birdine spoke out before a BCS game, he gave USC several bulletin boards worth of material. Two years later, he revisited reporters in the University of Phoenix Stadium stands as part of Fiesta Bowl media day Saturday. "I don't want another Orange Bowl incident happening," Birdine said. "Let's just say it wasn't pretty." (Tulsa World)Stoops: Same schedule, Different days: OU has tried to keep its practice routine like it would for a normal game during Fiesta Bowl preparations. OU coach Bob Stoops said doing that can cause some confusion. Saturday, he wasn't even sure what day of the week it was. "I look at it as Thursday," he said. "You kind of go through your game week, getting prepared for the game, what you emphasize in practice. Today for us is like a Thursday practice. It's kind of how you mentally go into it." (Norman Transcript)Switzer and Johnson reunite: Former Sooners coach Barry Switzer will be one of Fox's Fiesta Bowl analysts during the game and will sit on a sideline studio platform next to Jimmy Johnson for pregame, halftime and postgame analysis. Switzer, who was an assistant coach at Arkansas when Johnson played there, and Johnson are old rivals, including Johnson's days at Oklahoma State (he lost every game to Switzer's Sooners) and Miami (he was 3-0 against OU). But their rivalry heated up even more when Switzer replaced Johnson as head coach of the Dallas Cowboys. "I've seen him every once in a while through the years," Switzer said. "We've had a couple conversations." (Tulsa World)Something they like to have: Oklahoma players took a liking to the Fiesta Bowl trophy, taking turns shooting photos of teammates posing beside it. Some might consider the trophy gaudy, with diamonds and gold and even a stained-glass window effect on a dome that serves as the base to a football topper. Not the Sooners. "We gotta have it," said offensive lineman George "Duke" Robinson. (NewsOK.com) Labels: Ah You, Barry Switzer, Bob Stoops, Fiesta Bowl, Larry Birdine, NFL, Oklahoma Sooners
posted by Gilbert Sam, Jr. @ 10:35 AM |
posted by Gilbert Sam, Jr. @ 8:59 AM |
Saturday, December 30, 2006
Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and NotesRelatively warm to BSU: Locals in the Phoenix area have been lamenting the unseasonably cool weather. Not Boise State quarterback Jared Zabransky. "Just really enjoying the weather," he said. "When bad weather around here is 55 degrees and a little drizzle, that's not too bad." (NewsOK.com)Speed makes up for it: So how do the Broncos compensate for their relative light weight? "A lot of speed," OU offensive coordinator Kevin Wilson said. "We're not the biggest team that walks onto the field a lot of weeks. But there's a lot of activity. That's the way they play. They're very active." (Tulsa World)Boise State's practices improving: The Broncos say Wednesday's sloppy practice served its purpose -- knocking off the rust.Execution improved Thursday, they said. The Broncos held a closed practice Friday."You look at (Thursday's) practice compared to the first practice, 100 percent turnaround," tailback Ian Johnson said. "The heart and the energy were there the first day, but it just wasn't as crisp as (Thursday). It was a good, physical practice. You can just count on us getting better each practice and peaking for the game." (Idaho Statesman) Sooners clicking as game draws near: SoonerSports.com
Musings from OU Fiesta Bowl central: SoonerSports.comFiesta Bowl: Oklahoma vs. Boise State Notes: Oklahoma FanHouseAlexander has come a long way: Norman Transcript
Sooners have time to have fun: Norman Transcript Venables has Sooner defense thriving: The Oklahoman
Venables fine waiting for head coaching job: The Oklahoman
Beware -- Anything can happen: The Oklahoman
Boise QB worked to get his mind right: The Oklahoman
In, out and in as Sooners' QB: USA Today Patrick ready to hand spotlight back to Peterson: Tulsa World
Building the Fiesta Bowl: Tulsa World
Peterson ponds Sims' record, future: Tulsa World
Venables still a Sooner despite being on hit list: Tulsa World
OU daily log: Tulsa World
Unique stadium quite a sight to see: Tulsa World
All about Boise: Tulsa World
Fiesta Bowl matchups: Tulsa World
The Insiders' Top 5 OU running backs: Tulsa World
Wilson comes of age in Broncos' backfield: Idaho Statesman
Thompson steps back into quarterback role and unites a young team: Idaho Statesman
O-line plows the way for successful Sooners: Idaho Statesman
OU player spotlight on Garrett Hartley: Idaho Statesman
Boise State's special teams: Idaho Statesman
Oklahoma's special teams: Idaho Statesman
Boise State's uphill battle leads to Fiesta: Dallas Morning News
OU's Ah You carrying the family torch: MSNBC
Blown call changed Sooners' fortunes: East Valley Tribune
Sooners' Peterson won't rush departure: Arizona Republic
Fiesta Bowl preview and prediction: Arizona Republic
Pressure doesn't faze Broncos: Arizona Republic
Patience, toughness power Johnson's rise: Arizona Republic BSU defense faces juggernaut in OU: Twin Falls Times-NewsLabels: Boise State, Fiesta Bowl, Oklahoma Sooners
posted by Gilbert Sam, Jr. @ 11:49 AM |
Friday, December 29, 2006
Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and NotesPeterson shows no rust: OU running back Adrian Peterson has gotten most of the workload in practice to make sure he's not rusty next Monday, offensive coordinator Kevin Wilson said. Still, Wilson said Peterson, Allen Patrick and Chris Brown will all see action. "I've knocked all the rust off and [am] back to 100 percent," Peterson said. (Dallas Morning News)Wilson unsure on how good Boise State is: Oklahoma offensive coordinator Kevin Wilson said Thursday he's still trying to figure out how good Boise State is.He has watched BSU opponents San Jose State, Utah and Hawaii play in bowl games -- TiVo remote in hand -- to get a gauge."You're playing a team that looks awfully good who in some ways you know little about," Wilson said, "and you're trying to get a feel for that." (Idaho Statesman)Sumlin Interviewed at La. Tech? OU receivers coach Kevin Sumlin said he met with representatives of Louisiana Tech about their head coaching vacancy, but the talks never got serious. Reports in Miami also linked Sumlin to the offensive coordinator position under new Hurricanes coach Randy Shannon. Sumlin said it was all media speculation, though, and that he has not spoken with anyone at Miami. (Dallas Morning News)OU's and BSU's Alexanders related: Boise State safety Gerald Alexander hasn't been able to catch up with Oklahoma linebacker Rufus Alexander, a distant relative. The two are planning to get together at some point during bowl week.Gerald learned during the Christmas break that his great grandfather and Rufus' great-grandfather are cousins."My family is coming. I don't know how much of his Oklahoma family is coming, but we're all family and I'm sure we'll meet together," Gerald said. (Idaho Statesman)A. Peterson to make decision after Fiesta Bowl: With speculation running wild, Adrian Peterson remains coy about his future. The junior running back is 151 yards away from breaking Billy Sims' Oklahoma career rushing record of 4,118 yards. Peterson is expected to be an early first-round pick if he jumps to the NFL next year. "It's a big decision, but I'm waiting until after the game to finalize that," Peterson said. (Eastern Valley Tribune)Fiesta Bowl practice visitors: Practice visitors included former OU head coach Chuck Fairbanks, who resides in the Phoenix area. He watched much of the practice along side Oklahoma athletics director Joe Castiglione. (Oklahoma Practice Notes)Home Team: The Sooners are the home team and will wear their crimson-colored jerseys. ( Dallas Morning News)Top 5 Oklahoma Sooners Storylines of 2006: Oklahoma FanHouse OU Fiesta Bowl Offensive Quotes: SoonerSports.comMr. Popular: Norman TranscriptRooting for Boise, roots in Oklahoma: Norman TranscriptSooners aide studies Broncos' foes: Arizona RepublicOU Player Spotlight on Reggie Smith, defensive back: Idaho Statesman Boise State won't catch Sooners snoozing: Idaho StatesmanOklahoma's pass defense: Idaho Statesman Labels: Adrian Peterson, Boise State, Fiesta Bowl, Kevin Sumlin, Kevin Wilson, Oklahoma Sooners, Practice, Rufus Alexander
posted by Gilbert Sam, Jr. @ 4:20 AM |
Thursday, December 28, 2006
Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes
Mike Stoops visit the Sooners: OU coach Bob Stoops got a visit from younger brother and former co-defensive coordinator Mike Stoops on Wednesday. Mike Stoops, now head coach at Arizona (100 miles due south in Tucson), got to reunite with his brother, several staff members and a dozen or so players. "It's fun. I love seeing him," said Bob Stoops, who added that another brother, Mark -- Mike's defensive coordinator at Arizona -- would be arriving Thursday. Mike Stoops also coached defensive backs when he was at OU from 1999-2003. "I still have a connection with some guys," Mike Stoops said. "There isn't many guys left, but there's still about 10 or 12, maybe 15 guys that were playing when I was still here." (Tulsa World)Boise State hits the practice field: Boise State practiced Wednesday at Scottsdale Community College for the first time since breaking for Christmas on Saturday.The Broncos will practice today, Friday and Saturday at Scottsdale CC, then hold a walk-through at University of Phoenix Stadium on Sunday. Scottsdale CC has one full practice field and two half fields.The Broncos seemed to have good energy in the 15 minutes of practice the media were allowed to watch. They met with some local children after practice. (Idaho Statesman)A Boys and Girls Clubs TD Salute? When Oklahoma wide receiver Malcolm Kelly spoke to a group of kids from Phoenix-area Boys and Girls Clubs after practice Wednesday, he received an interesting request. If he scores a touchdown in the Fiesta Bowl, he was asked, would he be willing to clasp his hands -- fingertips to wrists, palms together -- like the Boys and Girls Club symbol? "Yeah,” Kelly said, nodding, "I can do that.” (NewsOK.com)Stoops visits with former Coach Alvarez: Bob Stoops had another reunion Wednesday when retired Wisconsin head coach (and now athletic director) Barry Alvarez showed up. Alvarez was Iowa's linebackers coach when Stoops was a Hawkeye safety and is part of the Fox Sports broadcast crew assigned to the Fiesta Bowl. He spent Wednesday getting tips on the Sooners from Stoops. "You know how that is, a player-coach relationship," Stoops said. (Tulsa World)Baressi travels with team to AZ, future unclear: A lost season for Ben Baressi at least ends with some reward. Baressi is with the Sooners in Arizona, after missing the season due to an undisclosed medical condition. The offensive lineman's future with the team is uncertain. (NewsOK.com)Oklahoma practice time spent: the team worked considerably on all facets of the game. Garrett Hartley had a second straight solid day of kicking field goals. The defense spent most of the practice on the practice field adjacent to the main game field at Pinnacle High School. The offense did extensive work on its passing game. (SoonerSports.com)Wager between State Governors: Oklahoma Gov. Brad Henry and Idaho Gov. James Risch have made a friendly wager on the outcome of the Fiesta Bowl. The governor whose team comes up short will donate a basket of goods made in his home state to a charitable organization of the winning governor's choice. The University of Oklahoma and Boise State University will meet on New Year's Day in the annual game. ``I have unwavering confidence that Coach (Bob) Stoops and our Sooners will make Monday a triumphant one for the Crimson and Cream,'' Henry said. ``Boise State is an excellent team, but I plan to kick off the New Year with another OU victory.'' (KOTV.com)NFL draft expert on Adrian Peterson: Gil Brandt, the former Cowboys personnel director, is now a senior analyst for NFL.com. He said each case must be looked at individually before determining whether a player should go pro. "The big thing with Peterson is what it his collarbone going to be like," Brandt said. "That's where you have to go and get a good doctors' report on it. Or, have your doctor call the Oklahoma doctor and have them send you X-rays and so forth. "I hope the guy stays in school. I would say there isn't much chance that he will stay in school." (Dallas Morning News)Wilson made Sooners' offense go: Tulsa World
What to do in Phoenix: Tulsa World
OU Daily log: Tulsa WorldMike Stoops proud of Sooners' finish: The Oklahoman
Walk-ons enjoy little rewards of being a Sooner: The Oklahoman
BCS newbies keep their feet on the ground: The Oklahoman
Fiesta Bowl stadium a jewel in the desert: Idaho Statesman
OU player spotlight on Carl Pendleton: Idaho Statesman
Boise State's run offense: Idaho Statesman
Oklahoma's run defense: Idaho Statesman All eyes will be on special teams: Idaho Statesman
Who will be the most effective RB -- Johnson or Peterson?: Idaho Statesman
Oklahoma knows it can count on Malcolm Kelly: Idaho Statesman
Peterson focused on bowl, not decision about future: Arizona Republic
Petersen hammers home game plan: Idaho Statesman
Fiesta Bowl Notebook -- Broncos' Johnson feels Sooner's pain: East Valley Tribune
Sooners' Alexander wouldn't give up: Arizona Republic
Arizona-raised Broncos live dream: Arizona Republic
Scottsdale is party central for fans: Arizona Republic
Setup beginning for Bowl games: Arizona RepublicLabels: Adrian Peterson, Ben Baressi, Boise State, Fiesta Bowl, Malcolm Kelly, Oklahoma Sooners, Practice
posted by Gilbert Sam, Jr. @ 12:43 PM |
Wednesday, December 27, 2006
Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and NotesSooners hold first practice in AZ: The No. 7 University of Oklahoma football team completed its first practice Tuesday at Pinnacle High School in preparation for the Tostitos Fiesta Bowl. The Sooners practiced in full pads for two and one-half hours under the Arizona sun, working out the kinks of a holiday layoff in sunny, low 70-degree weather. "We (coaches), we're really pleased," OU head coach Bob Stoops said. "In full pads, we got after it in a physical way. The guys looked good. "I love it (in Arizona). Great area; beautiful weather -- we're excited about being here. Pinnacle High School has a beautiful practice field and game field area. The locker room area is perfect. It's wonderful." (SoonerSports.com Coverage)Mike Stoops to pay a visit: During post-practice interviews, Sooner head coach Bob Stoops said Mike, his brother and the head coach at the University of Arizona, will be in town Wednesday. (Oklahoma Practice Notes)UM looking at Sumlin? In Sunday's Miami Herald, passing game coordinator and wide receivers coach Kevin Sumlin was mentioned as a possible hire by new Miami coach Randy Shannon. Tuesday, Sumlin seemed surprised. "I don't know anything about it," Sumlin said. "There's speculation everywhere this time of year. It doesn't affect me at all. That's the first I've heard of it. There's just no story there." (Tulsa World) Team to attend Insight.com bowl: Stoops also said his squad may attend the Insight.com Bowl, featuring Texas Tech and Minnesota on Dec. 27 at Sun Devil Stadium in Tempe, Ariz. Tech is coached by former OU offensive coordinator Mike Leach. (Oklahoma Practice Notes)Boise State focused on more than one Sooner: Broncos coach Chris Petersen said he's focused on more than one Sooners star. "I think the one thing that jumps out is that everyone wants to talk about their offense and Adrian Peterson," Petersen said. "You don't win championships, and certainly the championships that Oklahoma has won, without great defense. "I think everybody loves to talk about offense and scoring points. It takes nothing away from their offense, but they have a lot of guys that play on defense. They don't miss a beat when they put other guys in. It will be a great challenge for our guys." (NewsOK.com) BCS bowl big time for Boise: Tulsa World
OU Daily Log: Tulsa World
Knall returns to familiar territory: Tulsa World
Heupel again a key for OU: The Oklahoman
Fiesta Bowl all about fun and focus: Idaho Statesman
OU player spotlight on C.J. Ah You: Idaho Statesman
Impact players -- BSU's Clady, Oklahoma's Thompson: Idaho Statesman Sooners make most of depth on defensive line: Idaho Statesman
Sooners' Stoops on top of his game this season: Idaho Statesman
Boise State readies for its biggest game: Tucson Citizen
Broncos belong on big stage: Arizona Republic
Thompson sparkles in 2nd chance: Arizona Republic
Stoops showed coaching prowess in tough times: Arizona RepublicLabels: Boise State, Fiesta Bowl, Oklahoma Sooners
posted by Gilbert Sam, Jr. @ 11:22 AM |
Tuesday, December 26, 2006
Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and NotesOklahoma arrives in Arizona: OU scored first in Arizona. The Sooners touched down at Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport Monday night to begin bowl preparations one day prior to Boise State. A long line of Fiesta Bowl dignitaries, unmistakable in canary yellow blazers, met the team on the tarmac. OU's players were off the 757 first. Dressed in matching crimson warm-ups, seniors Rufus Alexander, Larry Birdine and Chris Messner led the team into the crowd. Coaches, staff and families followed. The bowl welcome included dignitaries waving crimson shakers and Oklahoma signs while pasting the OU contingent with Fiesta Bowl stickers. Approximately 30 players flew with the team party which included coaches and staff on the charter from Oklahoma City. The balance of the team made their way to Arizona from hometowns across the country. (SoonerSports.com) Stoops on Arriving to Arizona: "We were anxious to get here. Our team is incredibly excited to be here and spend time in Glendale and Phoenix." Oklahoma Coach, Bob Stoops said Monday Night. Former OU Back Rolle Passes away: Former OU running back David Rolle died Sunday in Denton, Texas. He was 69. After growing up in Poteau, Rolle lettered at Oklahoma for three years in the late 1950s. He was a part of the Sooners' record 47-game win streak and two national championships. Rolle played for one year in the AFL with the Denver Broncos. In that season, he had more than 500 yards rushing and scored three touchdowns. (NewsOK.com)Bowl Practice Today: OU begins bowl practices promptly on Tuesday at Pinnacle High School. The Sooners work in full pads beginning at 11:40 a.m. local time. Phoenix is one hour behind Central.Sooners back in BCS bowl scene: Arizona RepublicOU touches down, is ready for Fiesta: Dallas Morning NewsOklahoma's run offense vs. Boise State's run defense: Idaho StatesmanSooners have overcome obstacles: East Valley TribuneLabels: Bob Stoops, Fiesta Bowl, Oklahoma Sooners, Practice
posted by Gilbert Sam, Jr. @ 7:20 AM |
Monday, December 25, 2006
Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and NotesSooners arrive in AZ: The Sooners arrive in Arizona today to begin Fiesta Bowl preparations. The Sooners will make their way to Phoenix from various locales, after many players returned home for a few days off following Wednesday's practice. Players had the option of leaving with an official travel party from Norman or traveling on their own. OU practices for the first time Tuesday at 11:40 a.m. at Pinnacle High School. (NewsOK.com)
Merry Christmas to all the GNEXTINC.com readers!!
All Sooner squads look for better seasons in '07: The Oklahoman Raising Rufus: Tulsa WorldAD is Back for the Fiesta Bowl: How about '07? AOL Oklahoma FanHouseOklahoma's Quarterback of the Future -- Let the Debate Begin: AOL Oklahoma FanHouseLabels: Fiesta Bowl, Oklahoma Sooners
posted by Gilbert Sam, Jr. @ 10:53 AM |
Sunday, December 24, 2006
Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes
OU Recruiting Trip, One Commits to Ole' Miss and Oklahoma: O.P. Walker offensive tackle Alex Williams (6-7, 295) recently visited Oklahoma, as did teammate Tyler Stradford, a 6-3, 185-pound wide receiver/defensive back. Williams is one of five in-state players who has committed to Ole Miss. Stradford committed to the Sooners after his trip. (Times-Picayune)
Merry Christmas to you and your loved one, and Happy Holidays to all!
Bowl a chance for Boise State players to shine: Norman TranscriptBrewing up the perfect BCS storm: The Oklahoman
Dream builders: The Oklahoman
A no-win situation for Sooners in Fiesta Bowl?: The Oklahoman
The Fiesta Stakes: The Oklahoman
Fiesta Bowl matchups: The Oklahoman
Jacob's Gift: The Oklahoman
Dupree's game still respected: Tulsa World
Holmes finds niche at OU: Dallas Morning News Zabranskyh has changed attitude after disappointing junior season: Idaho StatesmanLabels: Oklahoma Sooners
posted by Gilbert Sam, Jr. @ 9:16 AM |
Saturday, December 23, 2006
Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes
FOXSports.com Sooner Fans-- 2006 Fan of the Year: Well sorta by FOXSports.com writer Kevin Hench, for those Sooner faithful. For watching your Oklahoma Sooners get their national title hopes jobbed by a clueless ref, but staying a fan, you are the fan of the year. OU's two punter system succeeds: The Oklahoman
Latimer's talent off the field is a laughing matter: Tulsa WorldLabels: Oklahoma Sooners
posted by Gilbert Sam, Jr. @ 11:47 AM |
Friday, December 22, 2006
Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and NotesPractice like game week: Stoops has his team practicing as if this were a game week, hoping to hone in the players' focus after two weeks of lighter workouts. "We had a very physical, good practice (Tuesday) in full pads, much like we have through the year on Tuesdays, working, of course, against Boise State's schemes," Stoops said. "I feel like we're making very good progress. "Our game plan is progressing. We just have to finish it up this week and polish it when we get out there." Today will be the Sooners' final workout before the players begin their holiday break. (NewsOK.com)Players get Fiesta Bowl treats: Sooners players received video iPods from the Fiesta Bowl along with clothing. The school is also allowed to provide a gift for reaching the game. Oklahoma chose to hand out 20-inch televisions to the players. "The best part of it is if you win it you get a ring," tight end Joe Jon Finley said. "That's really what we're trying for." (Star-Telegram)Reggie at WR in the Fiesta Bowl? The Sooners' early season experiment of occasionally playing sophomore defensive back Reggie Smith at wide receiver didn't last long. Smith got only a few snaps at receiver and none after the fourth game of the year. But could the experiment be reborn, possibly for the Fiesta Bowl? "We'll see," Smith said. "I've been talking to (receivers coach Kevin) Sumlin, trying to get me in there. We'll see what happens." (NewsOK.com)
Gresham's still learning -- but quickly: The Oklahoman
Sportscaster respects Boise: The Oklahoman
Adrian on...: The Oklahoman Broncos look to win for little schools: The Oklahoman
Fiesta means part -- except for the bowl staff: Idaho StatesmanLabels: Fiesta Bowl, Oklahoma Sooners, Practice, Reggie Smith
posted by Gilbert Sam, Jr. @ 12:25 PM |
Thursday, December 21, 2006
Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and NotesOklahoma's Stoops a Bryant Coach of the Year Award Finalist: Oklahoma head football coach Bob Stoops is one of five finalists for the Paul "Bear" Bryant College Football Coach of the Year Award. The Houston Division of the American Heart Association today announced the finalists Wednesday. The winner will be chosen by the National Sportscasters and Sportswriters Association (NSSA) and named live at an award dinner benefiting the American Heart Association on Thursday, Jan. 11 at the Hilton Americas Hotel in downtown Houston. Also that evening, the late Glenn "Bo" Schembechler will be honored as the recipient of the 2007 Paul Bear Bryant Lifetime Achievement Award. Schembechler passed away Nov. 17 of heart failure at age 77. The University of Michigan legend suffered his first heart attack at 40. He survived that attack, and would later survive another heart attack and two quadruple bypass surgeries. Throughout his 37-year battle with heart disease, Schembechler attributed medical science for his ability to fight and live a normal life. The 2006 Paul Bear Bryant College Football Coach of the Year Finalists, in alphabetical order, are: Bret Bielema, University of Wisconsin; Lloyd Carr, University of Michigan; Chris Peterson, Boise State University; Greg Schiano, Rutgers, and Stoops. (SoonerSports.com PR) FB Coaches and Players on Boise St.: SoonerSports.comLove of the game: Norman TranscriptPeterson has his reasons to return to action in bowl: The Oklahoman Peterson: 'No doubt, I will play': Tulsa World Oklahoma controversy still follows Ducks around: Oregon Statesman JournalLabels: Award, Bob Stoops, Oklahoma Sooners
posted by Gilbert Sam, Jr. @ 4:21 AM |
Wednesday, December 20, 2006
Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and NotesPeterson not worried about Fiesta Bowl Injury: Oklahoma running back Adrian Peterson may be risking millions of dollars by playing in the Tostitos Fiesta Bowl against No. 9 Boise State. But the junior said Wednesday he isn't worried about injuring his collarbone again and wants to break the school's all-time rushing record. "I've been playing the game since I was 7," Peterson said. "A lot of guys speculate and say that I'm not coming back or why should he play? But I love the game. That's why I play. I love the game, I love the guys that I play with. "God's decided for me to be back out there, so I'm just ready to get back in the groove and play." (Dallas Morning News)Stoops finishes third in AP Coach of the Year award: Jim Grobe held Wake Forest together after a couple of potentially devastating injuries, refused to let his players feel sorry for themselves and turned the perennially downtrodden Demon Deacons into champions. For orchestrating one of the most surprising turnarounds in college football - and the best season in Wake Forest's 105-year football history - Grobe was honored as The Associated Press Coach of the Year on Wednesday. Rutgers coach Greg Schiano, who took the once-laughable Scarlet Knights within a victory of the Bowl Championship Series, finished second with 12 votes. Oklahoma's Bob Stoops was third with six votes. Ohio State's Jim Tressel received three votes. Arkansas' Houston Nutt got two votes. Boise State's Chris Petersen, Louisville's Bobby Petrino and first-year Wisconsin coach Bret Bielema each received one vote. (Charlotte Observer) Labels: Adrian Peterson, Bob Stoops, Fiesta Bowl, Injury
posted by Gilbert Sam, Jr. @ 4:27 PM |
Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes
Sooners land commitments: OU's youth at wide receiver hasn't kept the Sooners from pursuing -- and selling -- some of the nation's top prep prospects. The Sooners secured a commitment Monday from James Kirkendoll of Round Rock, Texas, a four-star prospect and the 19th-ranked receiver nationally by Scout.com. That after landing Tyler Stradford from New Orleans over the weekend. OU now claims three wide receiver commitments in what will be a small class of signees. Stradford is a 6-foot-3, 180-pound prospect who is not currently ranked by Scout.com. (NewsOK.com)Limited Boise State Fiesta Bowl Tickets available: Boise State announced Tuesday that it has 300 tickets remaining for the Jan. 1 game against Oklahoma in Glendale, Ariz., at $150 each. The school was down to 100 tickets Tuesday morning but found another 200 as it filled earlier orders. Tickets are available by calling 426-4737. (Idaho Statesman)Former Oklahoma QB Grady regrets transferring: Former Oklahoma QB recruit Tommy Grady, talks about his transfer prior to Rhett Bomar's dismissal... "It's kind of hard to say you don't regret (leaving Oklahoma) because it's one of the huge names in college football, and there are a bunch of great players there," he said. "I do regret it a little." Grady was nearly 900 miles away when the Bomar story broke, but that kind of news travels fast. "I was getting a lot of calls from people saying I should come back. But I like it here," the fourth-year junior said. (More at the Tulsa World) Bedlam on Big 12's menu for Thanksgiving weekends: The Oklahoman
Weaving talent follows Broncos' Johnson off field: The Oklahoman
Big 12 places OU-OSU rivalry on Thanksgiving weekend slate: Tulsa World
Sooners' Big 12 schedule set through 2015: Norman Transcript
BSU bookstore breaks merchandise sales record: Idaho Statesman Sooner Compliment on QB McCoy: Austin American StatesmanLabels: Boise State, Recruiting, Tickets, Tommy Grady
posted by Gilbert Sam, Jr. @ 10:23 AM |
Tuesday, December 19, 2006
Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes
Oklahoma Fiesta Bowl billboards: Sooner fans got an early gift on Tuesday, courtesy of the Tostitos Fiesta Bowl. The bowl committee placed six billboards in the Oklahoma City metro area to welcome OU to the bowl game on New Year's Day. The signs display a Tostitos Fiesta Bowl logo and an action shot of running back Adrian Peterson in addition to the welcome message: "Congratulations, Oklahoma - Big 12 Conference Champions. See you in Glendale on Jan. 1." No. 7 Oklahoma (11-2) departs on Christmas Day for Arizona. The game is slated for New Year's Day at 7:30 p.m. (CT) and will be televised nationally by FOX. (SoonerSports.com)Future OU Football Big XII Schedule: The Big 12 Conference has announced its conference schedule for 2008-2015. Adjustments are still possible for any number of reasons, but for the most part the games should remain as scheduled and are released now to assist various entities for planning purposes. Complete Oklahoma Football Big XII Future Schedule. (SoonerSports PR)2008October 4 -- at Baylor October 11 -- Texas October 18 -- Kansas October 25 -- at Kansas State November 1 -- Nebraska November 8 -- at Texas A&M November 15 -- Texas Tech November 22 - Open November 28/29 -- at Oklahoma St. 2009October 10 -- Baylor October 17 -- at Texas October 24 -- at Kansas October 31 -- Kansas StateNovember 7 -- at Nebraska November 14 -- Texas A&M November 21 -- at Texas Tech November 27/28 -- Oklahoma State Don't give up on Bradford yet: The Oklahoman
Your guide to the bowls: The Oklahoman Opportunity Knocks: The Oklahoman
OU seniors bowl savvy: Tulsa World
OU prepares for undefeated Broncos: SoonerSports.com
All Day, All-Access: SoonerSports.com Labels: Fiesta Bowl, Oklahoma Sooners, Schedule
posted by Gilbert Sam, Jr. @ 10:41 AM |
Monday, December 18, 2006
Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and NotesNine Senior Sooners Graduate: As the OU football team continues its preparations for the 2007 Fiesta Bowl on Jan. 1 against Boise State, nine seniors concluded their undergraduate work on Saturday, Dec. 16 at the University of Oklahoma's graduation ceremony. Seniors C.J. Ah You, Rufus Alexander, Larry Birdine, John Dailey, Zach Latimer, Chris Messner, Carl Pendleton, Calvin Thibodeaux and Paul Thompson all participated in the commencement ceremony at the Lloyd Noble Center. The nine individuals make up a group of 11 seniors, the smallest in the Bob Stoops' era. (SoonerSports.com)
Labels: Oklahoma Sooners, University of Oklahoma
posted by Gilbert Sam, Jr. @ 4:37 PM |
Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and NotesStoops and Tuberville at the same basketball game: [Bob] Stoops and Auburn head football coach Tommy Tuberville were spotted at the same high school basketball game, though both were there to see the same football player. Stoops and Tuberville were in Baton Rouge, La., on Saturday night, according to The (Baton Rouge) Advocate, watching Frank Anderson of Southern University Lab School. And the heavily recruited, 6-foot-5, 240-pound defensive end put on a hoops show for his admirers. Alexander scored a game-high 22 points as Southern Lab defeated Glen Oaks High School 58-48. (NewsOK.com)Sooner wish list -- Jason Carter: The OklahomanYour guide to the bowls: The OklahomanThe new 'No. 7': The OklahomanBlue turf a source of pride: Tulsa WorldBroncos try to strike the right balance of work, play: Idaho StatesmanBSU has plenty of ways to spend BCS money: Idaho StatesmanOklahoma's Fiesta Bowl History: SoonerSports.comLabels: Bob Stoops, Oklahoma Sooners
posted by Gilbert Sam, Jr. @ 11:04 AM |
Sunday, December 17, 2006
Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and NotesSooners move practice indoors, as Seniors prepare for graduation: Despite temperatures that climbed into the 70s -- a record for Dec. 16 -- the Sooners moved their Saturday practice indoors because of the wind, which consistently whipped at more than 20 miles per hour, with even higher gusts. Seniors were excused from practice, with several taking place in graduation. "We let the seniors go to graduation, but we had a really good practice without 'em," Stoops said. "Guys ran around and really played well." (NewsOK.com) Players tackle real life in graduation speeches: The OklahomanThe Collected Wisdom of Merv Johnson: The OklahomanBoise State also has tradition, and it's more than a blue field: The Oklahoman
OU Football Notebook: The Oklahoman
All-Oklahoma Bowl Team: Tulsa World
Trip to Norman convinced QB: Tulsa World
Local recruiting good, but sometimes hard: Tulsa World OU, BSU to match high-flying offenses: KTVB.comLabels: Oklahoma Sooners, Practice
posted by Gilbert Sam, Jr. @ 5:38 PM |
posted by Gilbert Sam, Jr. @ 2:51 AM |
Saturday, December 16, 2006
Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes Football Awards banquet: Oklahoma's football team enjoyed its 2006 banquet Friday night at the Postal Training Center Hotel and Conference Center in Norman. Two team awards that were not previously announced were presented during the 90-minute ceremony. Chris Messner received the Bob Kalsu Award for selfless dedication to the team. Kalsu, an All-American at Oklahoma in 1967, was the only professional football player killed in the Vietnam War. Several members of the Kalsu family were present for the banquet. Messner, a senior from Frederick, Okla., has been the season-long starter at left tackle for the Sooners. He was a consensus All-Big 12 selection. The Derrick Shepard Most Inspirational Walk-on Award went to Michael Cohen and Derek Shaw. Cohen is in his first year as the punter and Shaw his first as long snapper. Shepard was a walk-on at Oklahoma in 1983. He died unexpectedly from a heart attack after serving one year as a graduate assistant coach under current Sooner coach Bob Stoops. Members of his family also were at the ceremony. The Scout Team Players of the Year were quarterback Sam Bradford and linebacker Jeremy Beal. (SoonerSports PR)
Boise State's Peterson on facing Oklahoma: Boise State's Chris Petersen on Friday on facing Oklahoma in the Fiesta Bowl -- "It's a great opportunity for our program to be talked about and get an opportunity to compete with these guys," he told a Friday news conference. "It's a great challenge for our whole program, just playing those guys, just being on the same field with them." "They're the best team we've seen, for sure," said Petersen, an assistant coach with the Broncos for five years before being named head coach. 'The more you study them -- you're hoping to find these weaknesses, but they're Oklahoma for a reason, and it's pretty apparent." (San Diego Union-Tribune) Oklahoma Sooners Big XII Championship video available: The OU Athletics Department is offering the official Big 12 Championship DVD to Sooner fans online in the multimedia store.The 2006 Sooners defeated old rival Nebraska, 21-7, in the Dr Pepper Big 12 Championship Game at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City to earn the program's 40th conference title. Watch senior quarterback Paul Thompson, sophomore receiver Malcolm Kelly and freshman tight end Jermaine Gresham as the OU offense went to the air against the Huskers. (SoonerSports.com) Weight pays off for Messner: The Oklahoman
Stoops brothers still haunted by 'The Play': Tulsa World
Sooners proud of their legacy: Idaho Statesman Sooners in the Pros: Week 14: SoonerSports.comLabels: Award, Boise State, Oklahoma Sooners
posted by Gilbert Sam, Jr. @ 1:54 PM |
Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and NotesUniversity of Oklahoma releases investigation documents: The University of Oklahoma asked an attorney for a Norman car dealership to provide a list of players who used vehicles from the dealership during an investigation that resulted in the dismissal of two players from the school's football team. The university released two pages of documents Friday after an open records request by The Associated Press. The documents are a letter from the university's legal counsel, Joseph Harroz Jr., to Jeff Atkins, an attorney for David Hudiburg, the current owner of Big Red Sports and Imports, and an attachment to that letter. In the letter, dated Sept. 5, Harroz asks Atkins to require two employees be made available to interview with university officials. It said that OU had no reason to believe the employees were involved in any NCAA violations but that their testimony was needed "to clarify and confirm our current understanding of the relevant facts of the matter.” Among the documents requested in the attachment to the letter are the dealership's service records for an unknown number of people; tax forms, paycheck stubs and-or timesheets from 2005 and-or 2006 for 10 student-athletes; and "names of football student-athletes who have made purchases from Big Red, driven Big Red vehicles and-or had their vehicles serviced by Big Red.” The names on the list of requested documents were redacted. (More at AP/NewsOK.com)Labels: JD Quinn, NCAA Investigation, Rhett Bomar, University of Oklahoma
posted by Gilbert Sam, Jr. @ 7:45 AM |
Friday, December 15, 2006
Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and NotesBoise State sells remaining Fiesta Bowl tickets slowly: Ty Palmer got to Bronco Stadium at 6 p.m. Wednesday and spent the night dozing at the front of the line to get tickets to the Fiesta Bowl.John Hardy -- the last person in line -- strolled into the Varsity Center on the Boise State campus Thursday morning and had his ticket 20 minutes later.The line Palmer began more than 15 hours earlier was gone half an hour after the ticket office opened Thursday at 9 a.m. Rain and expectations of long lines were blamed for keeping more fans from queuing up to buy what were said to have been BSU's last 200 tickets for the Jan. 1 game against Oklahoma.However, approximately 200 additional tickets not claimed by season ticket holders also were released Thursday morning and were still available Thursday afternoon. (Idaho Statesman)Places to find Fiesta Bowl Tickets: Craigslist.org, Ebay.com, Orbitz.com, Scout's Ticket Exchange (Use Common Sense, Buy From Trusted Sellers via PayPal or Google Checkout) Orbitz.com still booking reservations for Fiesta Bowl: Idaho StatesmanBroncos Beat: Sooners have made their mark with stifling defense: Idaho StatesmanBoise-area VIPs to attend bowl game in style: Times-News Labels: Boise State, Fiesta Bowl, Tickets
posted by Gilbert Sam, Jr. @ 9:25 AM |
Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and NotesWe haven't seen nothing yet, maybe? With only the Fiesta Bowl against Boise State remaining, the Sooners' fifth-year senior quarterback hopes they can pull it together in his final game. "Being the competitor that I am, it doesn't seem like I've had a good practice in the five years I've been here," Thompson said. "There's always something we can improve on. There's always maybe a turnover or something and a lot of times we come away with a win, but there might be one or two things where we didn't achieve our goals." (NewsOK.com)Sooners travel to NFL's top rated stadium: Oklahoma's players, coaches and fans will enjoy a state-of-the-art facility for the Tostitos Fiesta Bowl on New Year's Day. OU will meet Boise State on the field inside University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale, Ariz. Home of the NFL's Arizona Cardinals, the stadium was completed in 2006 at a cost of approximately $450 million. The facility was named the best in the NFL by Street & Smith's and Sportsbusiness JournalSportsbusiness Daily and one of the 10 best stadiums in the world by BusinessWeek. (Facts and notes at SoonerSports.com) G Note: University of Phoenix Stadium is truly a world-class facility, among Texas Motor Speedway, and the new Busch Stadium in St. Louis. Pendleton FCA finalist: Oklahoma defensive tackle Carl Pendleton is a finalist for the Fellowship of Christian Athletes' Bobby Bowden Award. Pendleton will travel to attend the presentation ceremony in Phoenix, Ariz., on Jan. 6. In 2004, the Fellowship of Christian Athletes presented the first of what is now a yearly award. Named for the current Florida State coach, the award honors one college football player for their achievements on the field and in the classroom and for their conduct as a faith model in the community. Nominees must have a 3.0 GPA or better and must also have the backing of his school's athletic director and head football coach. The award is presented each year prior to the Bowl Championship Series' national title game. Pendleton, a junior and a three-year starter, has decided to forgo his senior year of eligibility - but not to turn pro. Instead, Pendleton, who will graduate in December, will continue his education and focus on caring for his 11-year-old brother, Kierstan. He became Kierstan's legal guardian recently. (SoonerSports PR) Fired up: Norman TransciptIn Ruuuuuuuuufus' shoes: The OklahomanClayton Grows Up Quickly: Washington Post Chat [Transcript] with Barry Switzer: ESPN Insider Labels: Carl Pendleton, Fiesta Bowl, Paul Thompson
posted by Gilbert Sam, Jr. @ 12:31 AM |
Thursday, December 14, 2006
Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and NotesOklahoma's Thompson would like a playoff system: Oklahoma is playing for a Fiesta Bowl championship next month. It could, however, contend for a national championship were there a playoff in place. "I guess I can be a spokesman for a playoff system since I'm on my way out of here," OU quarterback Paul Thompson said Wednesday. "I think playing it on the field is the only way. There's going to be speculation year in and year out as to who the top team is. With the system right now it's pretty much impossible to declare the top two teams." (Tulsa World)Peterson likely to start in Fiesta Bowl: Despite missing Oklahoma's last seven games with a collarbone injury, running back Adrian Peterson likely will start against No. 9 Boise State in the Tostitos Fiesta Bowl, coach Bob Stoops said Wednesday. "We're not there yet," Stoops said. "We'll see how he progresses through this time, but in all likelihood, yes." (Dallas Morning News)Peterson back to practice: The junior tailback resumed practicing with the Sooners on Friday but hasn't spoken with reporters yet - so the Sooners spoke about him. "He's getting more and more snaps in there,'' Oklahoma coach Bob Stoops said. "The players are excited to see him back in there. He's always been a great and strong team guy. The players have always appreciated how he's worked and he'll get more and more snaps leading up to it. It can only be positive.'' (More at SoonerSports.com/AP)OU's Thompson and Alexander completes full BCS circle: Thompson and linebacker Rufus Alexander will be among a rare handful of fifth-year players who in their careers their teams have played in all of the BCS bowls -- Rose (2003), Sugar ('04), Orange ('05) and the upcoming Fiesta. "Not too many people can say that," Alexander said. "Our class is the first [at OU] that can. It's a great feeling." "It's a good feat for our senior class," Thompson said. "But we definitely want to get the win. That's the main thing. We've lost the last two of three [bowls], so we definitely want the win." (Star-Telegram)Sooners want Peterson to break record: KWTV Video via NewsOK.comOU football notebook: The OklahomanA no-win situation?: Norman TranscriptAh You has quickly become an OU stalwart: The OklahomanExpected to play, Peterson back at practice: Tulsa WorldOklahoma RB eager to return: Idaho StatesmanSooners all sing the same song about BSU: Idaho StatesmanOU players on Fiesta Bowl matchup: SoonerSports.com
Labels: Adrian Peterson, Paul Thompson, Rufus Alexander
posted by Gilbert Sam, Jr. @ 10:42 AM |
Wednesday, December 13, 2006
Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and NotesOklahoma makes changes to compliance policy: In a series of measures aimed at preventing further violations of NCAA rules on recruiting phone calls, Oklahoma has instituted more frequent spot checks of telephone logs, created a new rules compliance manual and implemented a computer system to cross-reference coaches' phone calls. The changes, detailed in a report to the NCAA obtained Tuesday by The Associated Press through an open records request, address a lack of oversight that resulted in 577 impermissible recruiting phone calls by former Sooners men's basketball coach Kelvin Sampson and his staff. The new guidelines call for compliance staff to meet with the school's head coaches on an individual basis, broaden rules education for student-athletes and review each sport's telephone logs at least twice per semester. A May infractions report suggested that Oklahoma's violations under Sampson could have been detected with even a "cursory review" of phone records. Athletic director Joe Castiglione, in a Dec. 1 letter to NCAA Committee on Infractions director Shep Cooper, wrote that a requested timetable for the changes had not been included because "the university has already implemented most of these enhancements." Castiglione's letter lists 24 steps that the university is taking in response to the investigation. (More at Tulsa World)
Eldridge's blocking key no matter what position he plays: The OklahomanOU compliance makes changes after violations: The OklahomanOU outlines phone call policy: Norman Transcript Labels: Oklahoma Compliance, Oklahoma Sooners, Recruiting
posted by Gilbert Sam, Jr. @ 11:26 AM |
Tuesday, December 12, 2006
Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes
Oklahoma video: Checkout Google Video (video.google.com) Includes full length games, highlight reels and more, including the Oklahoma Sooners, Oklahoma HS football highlights. Upload, and share yours today. (thanks, Google for the heads up)
Billy Sims Oklahoma Highlights below
Billy Sims Highlights - 1st half OK. State vs. Nebraska - Full: Boise State vs. LA. Tech
Oklahoma allotment SOLD-OUT: The OU ticket office announced Monday that it had sold out of its allotment of 17,500 Fiesta Bowl tickets. OU officials reported Saturday that the ticket office had just 200 tickets remaining. The game, at University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale, Ariz., is expected to be a sellout. (NewsOK.com) Does Oklahoma care? FOXSports.com Fiesta Bowl expects big crowd: KWTV via NewsOK.com Labels: Fiesta Bowl, Oklahoma Sooners, Tickets, Video
posted by Gilbert Sam, Jr. @ 8:37 AM |
Monday, December 11, 2006
Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and NotesPendleton a Wooden Citizenship Cup finalist: Oklahoma defensive tackle Carl Pendleton is one of five finalists for the John Wooden Citizenship Cup, which is presented annually by Atlanta-based Athetes for a Better World. OU track and cross country runner Jackie Dubois won the honor last year. Another Sooner athlete, football running back Jacob Gutierrez, was a finalist for the Wooden Cup last season. He was one of 17 semifinalists in 2006. Other finalists for 2007 include Kandia Batchelor, Florida State; Parker Dalton, Texas A&M; Anna Key, California and Eric LeRoux, Princeton. The winner will be announced Jan. 25 in Atlanta. Pendleton, a recent recipient of the National Football Foundation's Post-Graduate Scholarship, has decided to forgo his final season of football eligibility at Oklahoma to pursue a graduate degree from the school. He carries a 3.86 grade point average in sociology with a minor in religious studies. The Sapulpa, Okla., product recently took legal guardianship of his 11-year-old brother, Kierstan. (SoonerSports PR)Eye on opponent -- Boise State: SoonerSports.comFormer Sooners help Ravens stop Chiefs: The Oklahoman Holiday wish list: The Oklahoman OU football Q&A: The OklahomanLabels: Award, Carl Pendleton
posted by Gilbert Sam, Jr. @ 10:55 AM |
Sunday, December 10, 2006
posted by Gilbert Sam, Jr. @ 11:27 AM |
Saturday, December 09, 2006
Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and NotesPeterson cleared to practice: Oklahoma coach Bob Stoops said Adrian Peterson returned to practice Friday and that he expects the junior running back to play in the Tostitos Fiesta Bowl. "We're going to work towards playing him," Stoops said. But Stoops left himself some wiggle room; he never said definitively that Peterson will play. So it's still possible that Peterson could choose not to risk further damage to his collarbone. Peterson broke the bone Oct. 14 and hasn't played since. It's widely believed Peterson will leave OU after this season and declare for the NFL draft, where he'll probably be a first-round pick. "He's cleared to play," Stoops said. (Dallas Morning News)Injured T. Williams returns to practice: Oklahoma offensive lineman Trent Williams returned to practice Wednesday. Williams, a true freshman right tackle, was carted off the field during last Saturday's Big 12 Championship game in Kansas City, Mo., for an ankle injury. OU offensive coordinator Kevin Wilson said the injury might have appeared more serious than it actually was. "I think it was more painful than it turned out to be," Wilson said after Friday's practice. "He's good. He's had a bad ankle he's fighting through. He's done great." (NewsOK.com)Sooners back to practice: Fresh off the Big 12 Championship, the OU football team returned to practice inside the Everest Training Facility in Norman on Friday evening. Players and coaches met with the media in the Big Red Room under the south end zone of Memorial Stadium to discuss practice and the upcoming bowl trip. (SoonerSports.com)Stoops would like early signing period: OU coach Bob Stoops says he wouldn't object to the NCAA instituting an early signing period for high school football players, like it has for other sports. And this time of the season would be perfect for it. "Some people want it too early. They want it before the season starts," he said. "The ideal situation would be sometime in the middle or late December, like when the junior-college guys sign. "Kids have plenty of time for an official visit. Some kids are going to school in that next semester. It just seems like that would be a good time." (NewsOK.com)Peterson back at practice: The OklahomanOU's Peterson returns to practice: Tulsa WorldPeterson back in the huddle: Norman TranscriptFans scramble for flights to Fiesta fun in Phoenix: Idaho StatesmanBSU's ticket allotment almost gone: Idaho StatesmanLabels: Adrian Peterson, Bob Stoops, Oklahoma Sooners, Practice
posted by Gilbert Sam, Jr. @ 9:59 AM |
Friday, December 08, 2006
Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and NotesOklahoma AD Castiglione avoids bringing outside help negotiating: Compensation for college head coaches -- especially the fast-escalating deals for football coaches -- is becoming an increasingly significant issue for NCAA schools, association president Myles Brand said Monday. During a session at the annual Street & Smith's Intercollegiate Athletics Forum here, Brand and other panelists were asked what they thought would be the most important story to follow in the upcoming year. "Coaches' contracts," said Brand, who added "agents have the upper hand" now and schools may need outside help negotiating these deals. Antitrust laws bar the NCAA from setting salary limits. "Negotiations have become tougher, and there's a lot of competition for the best coaches," Brand said in a separate interview Monday. "It might make sense for schools to have representation. They use outside counsel on other things." Hiring outside help can create problems, though, said Oklahoma athletics director Joe Castiglione, whose football coach, Bob Stoops, is one of the nation's highest paid at $3.45 million this year. "It's human nature to want to avoid the hard-core aspects of negotiation," Castiglione said. "But it can hurt the employer-employee relationship." (In part from USA Today)Oklahoma's Hartley edged by the 'ville's Carmody for Groza Award: Art Carmody of the University of Louisville football team won the Lou Groza Award yesterday as the nation's top collegiate kicker. The junior from Shreveport, La., made 20 of 23 field-goal attempts and all 57 conversion tries for a team-high 117 points. He holds the school career record with 46 field goals. The other finalists were Auburn's John Vaughn and Oklahoma's Garrett Hartley. "I knew that John and Garrett each had a great season," Carmody said. "Just sitting there and hearing my name, it was kind of a shock." (Louisville Courier-Journal) Labels: Award, Contracts, Garrett Hartley, Joe Castiglione
posted by Gilbert Sam, Jr. @ 10:51 AM |
Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and NotesStoops lets Michigan know not playing Conference Championship hurts: Coach Bob Stoops on voting Florida number two in the Coaches poll over Michigan... From NewsOK.com"It was simple for me," Stoops said. "I voted Florida two, Michigan three, for the reasons that I felt their strength of schedule -- which I have always believed should be a major factor -- I believe was more difficult. "And they played an extra game in the SEC Championship against another really good football team, on top of their schedule. I'd like to see everyone have to play a championship game. In the end, I thought the extra game is another proving ground and that along with their strength of schedule, I thought they deserved it." Stoops featured on ABC 's Coach of the Year show: Stoops will be featured Saturday on the Liberty Mutual Coach of the Year Finalists Show, to be aired at 1 p.m. on ABC. Stoops is among 10 finalists who will be profiled. The other candidates: Mack Brown of Texas, Lloyd Carr of Michigan, Jeff Tedford of California, Jim Tressel of Ohio State, Tommy Tuberville of Auburn, Danny Hale of Bloomsburg, Bobby Petrino of Louisville, Greg Schiano of Rutgers and Mel Tjeerdsma of Northwest Missouri State. The winner will be featured on the Liberty Mutual Coach of the Year Presentation Show at 1 p.m Dec. 16. (NewsOK.com)Broncos look to prove themselves against OU: the OklahomanBrooks: Hawkins savors Boise State's success: Rocky Mountain NewsBoise State strikes blow for the little guys: USA TodayLabels: ABC, Bob Stoops, Florida, Michigan, Rankings
posted by Gilbert Sam, Jr. @ 8:58 AM |
Thursday, December 07, 2006
Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and NotesWilliams likely to play in Fiesta Bowl: Freshman offensive tackle Trent Williams, taken from the field by cart at the Big 12 Championship, should be fine to practice and play in the Fiesta Bowl. Williams suffered a leg injury in the second half of the game, but he was later seen on the field and told reporters he was "OK." (NewsOK.com)Sooners Back to practice: The Sooners returned to the practice field Wednesday, as the Sooners practiced lightly in preparation for Boise State in the Fiesta Bowl. Boise State to practice this weekend: From Boise FOX 12 on Boise State's practice plans.. "Coach (Chris) Petersen wanted the guys to hit the books and get caught up on school work the next couple of weeks here, and we'll just practice Friday, Saturday and Sunday this week and give them all next week off for finals," said [BSU assistant football coach Jeff ] Choate. In three weeks, the team will begin its journey to Phoenix. They leave just one day after Christmas then they have a week until the actual game.Harley only Sooner in Orlando: [Kicker, Garrett] Hartley is the lone Sooner in Orlando. Still, Hartley is making the most of the trip, which began Sunday and doesn't end until a flight back to Norman on Friday. The trip has included dinners, a stay at a five-star hotel, and a visit to Universal Studios. The highlight for Hartley so far: "A round of golf at the PGA National Resort, the Champions Club," he said. "Pretty spectacular." (NewsOK.com)
Don't forget the "Home Depot College Football Awards" show (7 p.m. ET, ESPN) in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. World Picks: Picker gives praise to deserving Sooner: Tulsa World Smurf Turf synonymous with Boise State football: The Oklahoman
Bronco fans getting pumped up to play Sooners: The OklahomanHard work paying off for Hartley: The Oklahoman
OU coach wouldn't let his team lose sight of goals: Ft. Worth Star-TelegramLabels: Boise State, Garrett Hartley, Oklahoma Sooners, Practice, Trent Williams
posted by Gilbert Sam, Jr. @ 8:52 AM |
Wednesday, December 06, 2006
posted by Gilbert Sam, Jr. @ 9:54 AM |
Tuesday, December 05, 2006
Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and NotesLimited Fiesta Bowl tickets remain: A limited supply of tickets remain for Oklahoma's matchup with Boise State in the Tostitos Fiesta Bowl in Glendale, Ariz., on New Year's Day. As of close of business Tuesday, the OU Athletics Ticket Office still had tickets for the Jan. 1 bowl game remaining. Ticket sales for the event are now available only through the OU Athletics Ticket Office and continue online at SoonerSports.com until all are sold. The price is $135 per ticket and all sales are now first-come, first-served. If tickets do not sell out overnight through the online system, the OU Ticket Office reopens for business Wednesday at 8 a.m. and any remaining tickets may be bought online or buy calling or visiting the ticket office. Call the OU Athletics Ticket Office toll-free at (800) 456-GoOU (4668). (Sooner Sports PR) Where the Coaches rank the Sooners: The final top 25 coaches' poll was released Sunday, and Oklahoma was ranked No. 8. Fifty-five of the 62 voters had Oklahoma ranked from sixth to 10th. But there were some notable exceptions. One voter ranked OU below 15th -- Florida Atlantic's Howard Schnellenberger, a former Sooner head coach. And only three voters ranked OU higher than fifth -- OU's Bob Stoops, South Carolina's Steve Spurrier and Texas Tech's Mike Leach. Stoops was an assistant coach under Spurrier at Florida. And Leach is a former Stoops assistant. (Tulsa World) Callahan takes the blame for Oklahoma Loss: From HuskerExtra.com
"I was disappointed with everything I did," Callahan told reporters during a Big 12 coaches' bowl teleconference. "I just could've done a better job. I just didn't do enough." "I'm really, really upset. I'm really upset for that performance, and it all falls on my shoulders. I'm pretty aggravated, to say the least."
Big 12 Championship game experience: SoonerSports.com
Quick notes on the 2007 Fiesta Bowl: SoonerSports.com Solving college football, accidentally: Norman Transcript Sooners ready for fun in the sun: The Oklahoman Leach is nudging Stoops closer to advocacy for playoff: The Oklahoman Peterson puts BSU at No. 8 in coaches poll: Idaho Statesman Broncos, bowl game both make it big in relatively little time: Idaho Statesman Phoenix set to become college football central: Idaho Statesman Labels: Bill Callahan, Fiesta Bowl, Howard Schnellenberger, Nebraska, Oklahoma Sooners, Tickets
posted by Gilbert Sam, Jr. @ 8:17 AM |
Monday, December 04, 2006
Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes
Oklahoma Alumni Association and the Fiesta Bowl: When the Oklahoma Sooners head to the Tostitos Fiesta Bowl, you can join the OU Alumni Association and the Sooner Club on New Years Day in Glendale, Arizona. The Tostitos Fiesta Bowl will be played on Monday, Jan. 1 at the University of Phoenix Stadium, with kickoff set for 7:45 p.m. CST. Boise State was announced as OU's opponent in the Tostitos Fiesta Bowl as part of Sunday night's BCS announcement show on Fox. When you travel with other Sooner fans on this Official OU Alumni Fiesta Bowl Tour, you can forget about all the hassle. You'll stay at a deluxe hotel, rally at the famed Boomer Bash Pre-Game, enjoy all the amenities and privileges from traveling on the Official Tour, and so much more. The Official OU Alumni Fiesta Bowl tour does NOT include a game ticket. If you need tickets for the game, call the OU Ticket Office direct at 405-325-2424. The Athletics Ticket Office has special office hours on Sunday from 2-5 p.m. for walk-up and phone sales. Tickets for the Fiesta Bowl are $135. (More at SoonerSports.com)Fiesta Bowl Tidbits, OU Designated home team, Sooners arrive Dec. 26: Oklahoma has been allocated 17,000 tickets for the Fiesta Bowl matchup against Boise State. For the time being, they are available to season-ticket holders only. Ticket-related information can be found on soonersports.com. The Fiesta Bowl, along with the BCS National Championship the following week, will be played in the Arizona Cardinals' new 72,886-seat stadium in the Phoenix suburb of Glendale. The Sooners have been designated the home team and will wear crimson jerseys. They are expected to arrive in the Phoenix area Dec. 26. (Tulsa World)Boise States's Peterson on facing OU: From the Norman Transcript, "This is something we've been scratching and clawing for the last five or six years," Boise State coach Chris Peterson said. "For us to get a chance to even compete on the same field with Oklahoma is going to be an awesome challenge and hopefully a lot of fun as well."Next Stoop -- Fiesta Bowl: Norman TranscriptWhen Sooners needed a big play, Thompson was there: Norman TranscriptBeware of Boise State: The OklahomanOregon loss didn't derail OU's bid to play for title: The OklahomanScouting Boise State: The OklahomanWinter in the desert: Tulsa WorldQB deserves much credit for success: Tulsa WorldScouting Report -- Boise State: Tulsa WorldOU Three Questions: Tulsa WorldBoise State, Oklahoma in Fiesta Bowl: Casper Star TribuneIt's official -- BSU headed to Fiesta: Idaho StatesmanBeen there, done that -- Sooners are BCS vets: Idaho StatesmanBronco fans go gaga over Fiesta Bowl gig: Idaho StatesmanParty's over, time to get back to work: Idaho StatesmanLabels: BCS, Boise State, Fiesta Bowl, Oklahoma Sooners
posted by Gilbert Sam, Jr. @ 10:05 AM |
Sunday, December 03, 2006
Oklahoma Sooners Football Articles and NotesStoops gets Big 12 Championship bonus: Saturday's Big 12 championship win capped a lucrative week for Bob Stoops, who attained several contractual performance bonuses. Stoops earned $80,000 for OU's Big 12 title game win and another $100,000 for advancing to the Fiesta Bowl (thanks, Texas). He'd already padded his receivables ledger $30,000 for being voted Big 12 Coach of the Year earlier in the week. (NewsOK.com) Coach Stoops still has $235,000 in possible bonuses by seasons end.Walker Injury allows Wolfe playing time: OU corner Marcus Walker was injured while covering a punt with 3:33 remaining in the second quarter. His injury opened the door for D.J. Wolfe, who has gotten little playing time since giving up a 33-yard touchdown pass against Texas. On third-and-3 from the Nebraska 27, Zac Taylor threw a deep pass intended for Terrence Nunn. Wolfe made his first interception of the season. (Dallas Morning News)Fastest Big 12 title game TD: When Patrick powered into the end zone on the Sooners' first play, the Big 12 championship had the earliest touchdown in its 11-year history, 48 seconds after kickoff. The previous quickest TD also belonged to OU. Kejuan Jones scored on a 42-yard run against Kansas State in 2003, 2:45 after kickoff. (Tulsa World)Record Big XII Championship crowd: The crowd of 80,031 for Saturday's game at Arrowhead Stadium was the largest for a Big 12 Championship. (NewsOK.com)Kelly sets Big 12 receiving years record: Oklahoma's Malcolm Kelly caught 10 passes for 142 yards, setting a Big 12 championship game record for yards receiving, breaking the mark of 140 yards set by Kansas State's Darnell McDonald in 1998 against Texas A&M. (Kansas City Star)Oklahoma lacks a ground game against Nebraska: Oklahoma came into the game with the third-best rushing offense in the Big 12 and 14th-best in the country, averaging 188.7 yards a game. The Sooners had run for 224 or more yards in four of their past five games, all without Adrian Peterson. But Saturday, the Sooners averaged 1.5 yards per carry and had one run of double-digit yards, an 11-yarder by Allen Patrick. (Star-Telegram)OU booms Huskers for Big 12 title: SoonerSports.com
Big 12 Championship LiveBlog: Oklahoma FanHouse OU's Kelly, Thompson combine to power Sooners to conference title: Tulsa WorldNo awards can match Oklahoma's Big 12 run: Tulsa WorldOne has to wonder what-if about Oregon: Tulsa WorldThird-quarter drive keys win: Tulsa WorldTwo minute drill: Tulsa WorldWeather deters no fan: Tulsa WorldWelcome back, Oklahoma: The OklahomanDrive representative of Sooners' season: The OklahomanGame Balls: The OklahomanThe Play: The Oklahoman Big 12 Champs should celebrate unexpected title: The Oklahoman OU headed to Fiesta for first time since 1982: The Oklahoman Kelly's big night keys OU offense: The Oklahoman OU defense saves day: The Oklahoman Taylor struggles against OU's defense: The OklahomanSooners defeat Huskers in Big 12 title game: Lincoln Journal-StarOU defense was the difference: Lincoln Journal-StarNU has no answer for OU's passes: Lincoln Journal-StarOU secondary causes problems: Lincoln Journal-StarOU saves season of turmoil with title: Kansas City StarSooners lacking BCS resume: Kansas City StarKelly wears out Huskers: Kansas City StarHuskers' dream over: Kansas City StarNebraska Report: Kansas City StarOklahoma strikes through the air, adds to its Big 12 title collection: Ft. Worth Star-TelegramOU defense clamps down in the clutch: Ft. Worth Star-TelegramThompson delivers title for OU: Dallas Morning NewsResilient Sooners know how to fight back: Dallas Morning NewsBest opponent for Buckeyes? OU: Houston ChronicleBrown steps in 'Sooner' than expected: Austin American-StatesmanOklahoma wins title, but doesn't get its due: Austin American StatesmanOklahoma's long scoring march seals the deal: Austin American-StatesmanStoops rakes it in with incentives: Austin American-Statesman Labels: Allen Patrick, Big XII, Bob Stoops, DJ Wolfe, Malcolm Kelly, Marcus Walker, Record, Running Game
posted by Gilbert Sam, Jr. @ 11:43 AM |
Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and NotesOklahoma Bowl Game Ticket information: After winning the Big 12 Championship game on Saturday, the University of Oklahoma football team earned the conference's automatic bid into the Bowl Championship Series and a trip to the Tostitos Fiesta Bowl in Glendale, Ariz. The Tostitos Fiesta Bowl will be played on Monday, Jan. 1 at the University of Phoenix Stadium, with kickoff set for 7:45 p.m. CST. The opponent in Tostitos Fiesta Bowl will be announced as part of Sunday night's BCS announcement show on Fox at 7 p.m. Although the season ticket holder deadline has passed, those season ticket holders that have not already placed their order for Oklahoma's bowl game will have one more opportunity to do so beginning Sunday at noon on Soonersports.com. The Athletics Ticket Office will also have special office hours Sunday from 2-5 p.m. for walk-up and phone sales. Tickets for the Fiesta Bowl are $135. Seat locations will be determined at a later date and will be assigned based upon priority within giving levels. All orders will be assessed a processing fee and will be shipped via UPS mail in mid-December. (SoonerSports PR)
Labels: BCS, Boise State, Fiesta Bowl, Oklahoma Sooners, Tickets
posted by Gilbert Sam, Jr. @ 10:01 AM |
Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes Oklahoma's Thompson leads the Sooners to a Big 12 Championship: So what if it's a week earlier than Oklahoma had hoped for? The eighth-ranked Sooners will still finish their season in Glendale, Ariz., and that's good enough for coach Bob Stoops. The Sooners' 21-7 victory over No. 19 Nebraska in the Big 12 title game Saturday night earned them a berth in the Fiesta Bowl on New Year's Day. But combined with UCLA's 13-9 upset of No. 2 Southern California earlier Saturday, Oklahoma's win also raised questions of what might have been had a blown onside kick call not led to a 34-33 loss at Oregon on Sept. 16. The BCS title game is Jan. 8, also in Glendale. Stoops was in no mood to play what-if, though, after his team won its fourth Big 12 title. "You know what? We can't do anything about it," Stoops said. "For us to sit here and make an issue of it is not going to come off the right way. (AP/AOLSports.com) Labels: Big XII, Championship, Oklahoma Sooners, Paul Thompson
posted by Gilbert Sam, Jr. @ 6:49 AM |
Saturday, December 02, 2006
Checkout the FanHouse blogs, inside find the Dr. Pepper Big 12 Championship live blog at the Oklahoma Sooners FanHouse.. Nebraska-Oklahoma possession by possession, game notes and more.. Labels: Big XII, Live Blog, Nebraska, Oklahoma Sooners
posted by Gilbert Sam, Jr. @ 6:23 PM |
Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and NotesExpect a balanced Sooners: With talk of tonight's Big 12 Championship game being a grind-it-out battle between Oklahoma's and Nebraska's running attacks, a couple of good quarterbacks might be useless at times. But OU quarterback Paul Thompson says he doesn't expect another game of just 11 passes, like he had in last week's win over Oklahoma State. "You understand what the coaches' plans are and I'm definitely confident in our game plan," he said. "I still think that we're confident as an offense that we can throw it more and it will be maybe more balanced (tonight). "We'll take what the defense gives us and game-plan it out that way to end up on top at the end." (NewsOK.com)Use Caution heading to KC.: Oklahoma Highway Patrol Lt. Pete Norwood said troopers are concerned about the additional traffic headed north today as University of Oklahoma fans follow their team to the Big 12 championship game in Kansas City. "It's going to take you a little bit longer," Norwood said. "You are talking about 35 miles per hour when you are used to doing 70 miles per hour. If you are going to do it, go slow and make sure you have provisions in your car." (NewsOK.com)OU plays for 40th conference title: SoonerSports.comCoach Stoops on Big 12 Championship: SoonerSports.comDefensive seniors push teammates to meet standards: Tulsa WorldSnowstorm's impact minimal for Sooners: Tulsa WorldGambler has gotten cautious: Tulsa WorldFor Taylor, OU just another opponent: Tulsa WorldOU Notebook: Tulsa WorldMemorable moments -- OU vs. Nebraska: Tulsa WorldIt's the sum of their parts that's so special: Norman TranscriptStorybook needs an ending to settle everything: Norman TranscriptCold climate awaits Sooners, Huskers: Muskogee Daily PhoenixPatrick perseveres: The OklahomanStorylines: The OklahomanNotebook: The OklahomanOU never flinched on way to game for title: The OklahomanOld School Football expected: The OklahomanSooners passed on Taylor: The OklahomanOU-NU just not the same: The OklahomanCallahan's big success -- not becoming Howard: The OklahomanStorylines for Oklahoma -- A rather large migration: Lincoln Journal-StarHusker Football Notes: Lincoln Journal-StarSooner Football Notes: Lincoln Journal-StarNU, OU return to running roots: Lincoln Journal-StarNU-OU should be a battle: Lincoln Journal-StarQB not quite a snap for NU's Taylor, OU's Thompson: Kansas City StarLike old times -- Sooners-Huskers game decided many Big Eight titles: Kansas City StarScouting Report -- Oklahoma vs. Nebraska: Kansas City StarCold may ground Huskers, Sooners: Ft. Worth Star-TelegramSnow doesn't worry Stoops: Ft. Worth Star-TelegramHuskers usually full of surprises: Ft. Worth Star-TelegramBig 12 forecast -- Expect rush hour: Dallas Morning NewsMatchups -- Oklahoma vs. Nebraska: Dallas Morning NewsBig 12 Notebook -- Callahan loves trick plays: Dallas Morning NewsThompson, Taylor key runs to title game: ESPN.comBrown steps in 'Sooner' than expected: Alexandria Town TalkLabels: Big XII, Oklahoma Sooners
posted by Gilbert Sam, Jr. @ 9:13 AM |
Friday, December 01, 2006
Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes Nebraska sees no difference in Sooners without Peterson: Nebraska linebacker Corey McKeon said he hasn't noticed a drop-off in OU's running game without Adrian Peterson. "It's Oklahoma, and you know they'll have good running backs," McKeon said. "Adrian Peterson casts a very large shadow... You could be the second-best running back in the nation and be playing behind Adrian Peterson." McKeon wasn't sure of Peterson's replacement's name, just the number. But he saw a similarity. "No. 23 (Allen Patrick), he looks just like Adrian running hard out there," McKeon said. "He's a downhill guy and he's going to be tough to play against." (NewsOK.com) Michigan prep QB eyeing Oklahoma? Keith Nichol, the Lowell (Mich.) High School senior rated among the top five prep quarterbacks in the nation, visited OU Wednesday, even through he verbally committed to Michigan State over a year ago. "I am just going out there to reassure myself of my decision," Nichol told the Grand Rapids Press before leaving. "With all the stuff that has been going on, I want to make sure I am where I want to be." Nichol committed to John L. Smith, the Michigan State coach who was fired this season. The Spartans hired Cincinnati coach Mark Dantonio to replace Smith this week, and Nichol said he plans to visit Dantonio after his trip to OU. "He is a 17-year-old boy, and we want to make sure we are getting all the information before him that he needs," Gary Nichol, Keith's father, told the Press. "Once he has that information, he will be ready to make a decision." (Tulsa World)
Current Sooners met at Nebraska: Oklahoma defensive backs Nic Harris and Reggie Smith were friends before they became teammates. The sophomores met during the recruiting process. "First time I met Reggie, we were both on a visit to Nebraska," Harris said. "As a matter of fact, we were over at the safeties' house, (Josh and Daniel) Bullocks. We were just talking about recruiting. Exchanging stats. He was overwhelmed at mine. I was overwhelmed at his." Harris, from Alexandria, La., wishes he and Smith, from Edmond, could have teamed up sooner. (NewsOK.com)Pair of Sooners' receives Rivals.com honors: Left tackle Chris Messner and placekicker Garrett Hartley were named to the Rivals.com All-America teams. Messner, a senior from Frederick, was named third-team while Hartley, a junior from Southlake, Texas, was picked second-team. (Tulsa World)Callahan restores order in Lincoln: The OklahomanLonging for the good old days: The OklahomanA rivalry resumed?: The OklahomanBlackledge on OU-Nebraska: The OklahomanSooners' kick-starter settles in: The OklahomanRivalry has a history: Norman TranscriptBeware of underdog: Tulsa WorldTravel to game may be tough: Tulsa WorldWhat others say about the game: Tulsa WorldMemorable moments -- OU versus Nebraska: Tulsa WorldSooner-Husker rivalry not the same as it used to be: Tulsa WorldFreshman leads OU's young line: Tulsa WorldSooner defense makes strides: Lincoln Journal-StarHuskers golden in red zone: Lincoln Journal-StarHusker Football Notes: Lincoln Journal-StarSooner Football Notes: Lincoln Journal-StarSwitzer, Osborne are rivalry royalty: Dallas Morning NewsCornhuskers often Big Red in the red zone: Ft. Worth Star-TelegramDespite dark days, OU ran to daylight: Ft. Worth Star-TelegramDespite adversity, Oklahoma on verge of Big 12 title: SI.comSooners' experience should doom Huskers: San Antonio Express-NewsRetirement seems to suit Switzer fine: Kansas City StarOsborne cannot just fade into background: Kansas City StarLabels: Adrian Peterson, Keith Nichol, Nebraska, Nic Harris, Oklahoma Sooners, Recruiting, Reggie Smith
posted by Gilbert Sam, Jr. @ 2:49 PM |
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