Oklahoma defeats Chattanooga 57-2 in season opener: Sam Bradford threw for 183 yards and two touchdowns, Chris Brown ran for three scores and only an hourlong rainstorm could slow down the Sooners in a 57-2 victory against Chattanooga on Saturday night. The Sooners converted their first seven possessions into touchdowns and led 50-0 before a thunderstorm caused a lightning delay that extended halftime by 1 hour and 12 minutes. Instead of stopping the game, both teams went through a glorified scrimmage in the second half -- except one team was trying not to score. "That's always a difficult situation in the second half when you're up 50-0 at halftime. You want your [backups] to move it but you don't want to be a bad guy and be throwing it all over the place and taking advantage of what's there," Oklahoma coach Bob Stoops said. "You know, you do the best that you can." (Associated Press/SoonerSports.com)
Free shuttle from LNC to stadium: Sooner fans riding the shuttle from the Lloyd Noble Center parking lot to the stadium today may get a pleasant surprise. The service, which was $2 last season, is now free. The University of Oklahoma did away with the fee to comply with a new Federal Transit Administration regulation regarding charter service. The rule prohibits local transit authorities from offering game day service to fans if the fee is higher than the regular fare. CART service from the Lloyd Noble Center is offered for free on weekdays to students, faculty and staff. (The Oklahoman)
Annual Big Red Rally set for tonight: The CAC Big Red Rally, the annual kickoff event for University of Oklahoma students, is set for Friday, Aug. 29 at 7 p.m. on the north lawn of Gaylord Family - Oklahoma Memorial Stadium. Festivities include the Pride of Oklahoma, spirit squad performances and remarks from OU head coach Bob Stoops. The CAC Big Red Rally will be followed by the Big Red After Party on the East Lawn of the Oklahoma Memorial Union. The Big Red After Party, co-programmed by CAC Concert Series and Union Programming Board, will feature a free concert and food donated by Housing and Food Services. (SoonerSports PR)
A look at Oklahoma's opponent University of Tennessee Chattanooga Mocs coverage, including tidbits, quotes and game coverage.
Chattanooga QB Gault excited about OU atmosphere: "We are very excited, playing in front of 80 (thousand) plus," said Chattanooga quarterback Jare Gault, who makes his debut Saturday night at Owen Field, having transferred from East Mississippi Community College. "It's something I've always dreamed of doing." (The Oklahoman)
The Mocs to play three QBs? (Head Coach) Rodney Allison said there was a pretty good chance that three UTC quarterbacks would play Saturday. Based on the number of reps the QBs are getting in practice, that means that Jare Gault, Tony Pastore and Sloan Allison will play. (Chattanooga Times Free Press)
New play clock may hurt UTC: The Mocs' offense has practiced using the new clock several times during the past two weeks with some mixed results. "I just want to get (the players) into a rhythm, into a tempo (with the new clock)," Allison said. "It's harder when you don't have a clock for them to see, but if it's harder now it will be easier when we're actually in a game." (Times Free Press) Worst non-conference match up:ESPN.com ranks UTC-Oklahoma match up the worst 2008 Big 12 non-conference game. Also, Rivals.com ranked the game as the most embarrassing game of 2008.
Key injury: Bryan Fitzgerald, a first-team preseason All-Southern Conference pick and the Mocs' leading rusher a year ago with 798 yards, is out for the season after knee surgery.
New staff: UT Chattanooga has seven new assistant coaches in 2008.
Spencer Tillman to call first Sooner game: [Spencer] Tillman, an OU running back from 1983-86, will be broadcasting his first Sooners game. He said he is excited about doing the game with Brando, even if it isn't the best matchup. The two get out of the studio to broadcast a handful of games for CBS each season. "It's fun for us because it's sort of a primer for us," said Tillman, who broadcasts Houston, Texas, preseason games. "It kind of gets us into the mode of what's going on in the college scene." (The Oklahoman) Tim Brando will join Tillman in the booth with Emily Jones and former OU QB Charles Thompson on the sidelines.
DeMarco Murray on Doak Walker award watch list: DeMarco Murray, Oklahoma's top returning rusher, has been named to the preseason watch list for the Doak Walker Award. The honor is presented annually to the top running back in college football. Murray, a sophomore from Las Vegas, Nev., ran for 764 yards last season despite missing three games and drawing only one start. He also scored 15 touchdowns, including 13 on the ground, to tie Adrian Peterson's freshman record at OU. Murray showed a flare for the big play with a 92-yard touchdown run against Utah State and a pair of kickoff returns for touchdowns. The Guaranty Bank SMU Athletic Forum Board of Directors will select the semifinalists on November 10, and the Doak Walker Award National Selection Committee will cast votes to determine the finalists, who will be announced on November 24.(SoonerSports PR)
OU's season opener SOLD-OUT: The University of Oklahoma announced today that tickets for Saturday’s season-opening football game with Tennessee-Chattanooga have been sold. However, OU athletics ticket office personnel say they expect a few returns and exchanges on the day of the game. (The Oklahoman)
Miller, Owens not expected to redshirt this year: Bob Stoops has said this week that true freshmen wide receivers Dejuan Miller and Jameel Owens won't redshirt this season. "We're going to play them," Stoops said. (The Oklahoman)
Couple players suspended for Saturday's game? [Bob] Stoops suggested that the Sooners could be without some players Saturday. Just who, he was not saying. "I'm not much for announcing suspensions," Stoops said, "because then they get their pictures in the paper and everyone talks about it. "Like everybody, there will be some guys for various reasons, from academics to other issues that we may hold. We'll see when we get to the game." (The Oklahoman)
Moreland and Stevens earns kicking duties: Stoops said Matt Moreland, a walk-on redshirt freshman from Bishop Kelley, has won the kickoff job. Jimmy Stevens will handle field goals, although it is possible the Sooners will use Moreland or Union freshman Tress Way for longer kicks. Or Way may redshirt. "Tress Way is doing a great job punting and kicking and is going to be really good for us," Stoops said. "Whether we use him ... I don't know if it would be right to use his year." (Tulsa World)
Mocs to 450k playing OU: Tennessee-Chattanooga will be making $375,000 guaranteed from Oklahoma plus a travel expense of $100,000 for playing in Norman on Saturday, athletic director Joe Castiglione said Tuesday. While that may seem like a lot, $475k is actually just a little above the norm for playing Football Championship Subdivision schools. (The Oklahoman)
Limited tickets remain for UTC and Cincinnati: Opportunities to see the Sooner football team in action this season are going fast with tickets remaining for only two games. The Oklahoma football season-opener vs. Tennessee-Chattanooga on Aug. 30 is nearing a sellout with only approximately 100 tickets returned from UTC Mocs still available for purchase. Tickets for the game are $49 each. Kickoff is set for 6:10 p.m. There are a limited number of tickets returned from Cincinnati available for their Sept. 6 contest with the Sooners as well. Tickets are on sale for $62 each. Kickoff is set for 2:30 p.m. (SoonerSports.com)
Bob Stoops met the media Tuesday to discuss UT-Chattanooga. Find his pregame quotes here.
Oklahoma-Chattanooga PPV Availability: Nationwide - Direct-TV, Dish Network Tulsa; Oklahoma City - COX Cable Austin, TX; Waco, TX - Time Warner Houston, TX - Comcast Also available on Cablevision in Lawton, Allegiance Cable in Shawnee, and most Cable One, Suddenlink customers in Oklahoma... More Information at SoonerSports.com
KSBI-TV to historic OU bowl games: KSBI-TV is adding classic Sooner bowl games to its fall lineup. The bowl games will air on KSBI directly after the 11:30 a.m. SEC Game of the Week. Among the upcoming broadcasts: 1983 Fiesta Bowl vs. Arizona State (Sept. 6); 1988 Orange Bowl vs. Miami (Sept. 13); 1981 Orange Bowl vs. Florida State (Sept. 20); 1976 Orange Bowl vs. Michigan (Sept. 27); 1986 Orange Bowl vs. Penn State (Oct. 4); 2002 Cotton Bowl vs. Arkansas (Oct. 11); 1987 Orange Bowl vs. Arkansas (Oct. 18). (The Oklahoman)
Here's a look at Oklahoma Sooners in preseason college football rankings. Kansas City Star... Oklahoma No. 5 - All systems are go for another successful season, but there are some questions, especially on defense. Oklahoma is breaking in a total of four new starters at linebacker and in the secondary. - Blair Kerkhoff
Los Angeles Times... Oklahoma No. 5 - Sooners fans would probably circle the wagons and agree on this: It's just not good enough winning the Big 12 Conference title while ruining Missouri's national championship hopes.That was nice, but it's time for Oklahoma to hit another gusher. - Chris Dufresne
Fort Wort Star-Telegram... Oklahoma No. 5 - The Sooners are stocked with talent, but lost some key players and need a young secondary to mature quickly.
SportingNews... Oklahoma No. 4 - The new trick on offense will be a no-huddle, which was installed during the spring. It took some getting used to, but coaches believe the kinks will be worked out this fall. - Blair Kerkhoff
The Grand Rapids Press... Oklahoma No. 2 - The offensive line is the nation's best and RB DeMarco Murray, who was injured after taking the team lead with 764 rushing yards last year, is a potential breakout star. - David Mayo
The Arizona Republic... Oklahoma No. 2 - Quarterback Sam Bradford could become a Heisman candidate behind one of college football's great offensive lines. - Doug Haller
Lexington Herald-Leader... Oklahoma No. 10 - The schedule is baby-soft, and quarterback Sam Bradford enjoyed a fabulous first season. But the OU defense must get better. Much better. - John Clays
Press-Register... Oklahoma No. 2 - The Sooners return their quarterback, two running backs, five linemen and a wrinkle. Sam Bradford, who set an NCAA record for freshmen with 36 TD tosses, will utilize a no-huddle set. - Mark Heim
Omaha World-Herald... Oklahoma No. 5 - The Sooners have become a model of consistency with their strong defenses and diverse offenses. A break or two could lead to a title run. - Lee Barfknecht
ST. Louis Post-Dispatch... Oklahoma No. 6 - The defense is filling some massive holes at linebacker and in the secondary. - Stu Durando
The Hartford Courant... Oklahoma No. 5 - All the hype surrounding quarterback Sam Bradford (3,121 yards passing) might mean a national championship in the Sooners' view. - Desmond Conner
Shevport Times... Oklahoma No. 3 - The Sooners have a great quarterback in Sam Bradford and fairly easy schedule. - Glenn Guilbeau
New York Post... Oklahoma No. 1 - Three Big 12 crowns but no national titles in five years. - Lenn Robbins
New York Daily News... Oklahoma No. 4 - Their inability to win a BCS bowl the last two years remains confusing, but it's easy to see the Sooners going unbeaten if they get past Texas in an Oct.11 showdown in Dallas. - Dick Weiss
Bradford and McCoy among Oklahoma team captains: Sam Bradford, Jon Cooper, Brody Eldridge, Nic Harris and Gerald McCoy have been named Oklahoma's team captains for the upcoming football season. The players were selected in a vote taken by the team. Bradford, a quarterback, Cooper, a center, and Eldridge, a tight end/fullback are the offensive captains. Harris, a safety, and McCoy, a defensive tackle, are the defensive captains. Cooper and Harris are seniors. Eldridge a junior and Bradford and McCoy redshirt sophomores. (SoonerSports.com)
Louisiana prep star considering OU: According to Louisiana prep running back Eddie Lacy, some coaches have told him his running style reminds of Adrian Peterson. Interestingly, OU is among a list of elite schools who have offered the Giesmar, La., prospect, along with Alabama, Auburn, Miami, Tennessee, Nebraska, Florida State and others. Lacy, who ran for 1,800 yards and 26 touchdowns as a junior, appears in no hurry to commit. He told Sporting News Today that he'll watch the teams he's considering this season, then make a decision. (The Oklahoman)
True freshmen Owens and Miller expected to play: Sooner coach Bob Stoops said today that Jameel Owens and Dejuan Miller will likely play in 2008, a rather strong indicator of the duo's progress given that Ryan Broyles, Corey Wilson and Tyler Stradford, OU’s true freshman wideouts a year ago, all redshirted. Stoops said other true freshmen he expects to play this season include safety Joseph Ibiloye and offensive linemen Stephen Good and Ben Habern. Defensive ends coach Chris Wilson said he hasn't determined whether R.J. Washington, the nation's No. 1 high school D-end last year according to ESPN and Rivals.com, or fellow freshman David King will see action this year. (Tulsa World)
Cooper named to Rimington Watch List: Oklahoma's Jon Cooper has been named to the preseason watch list for the Rimington Award, which is presented annually to the top center in college football. Cooper has been a mainstay in the Sooner offensive line since he broke in as a starter in 2005. He has played in 34 games at OU with 29 starts. A native of Fort Collins, Colo., Cooper is a 6-2, 285-pound senior. In all, there are 43 players on the watch List. The PAC-10 checks in with the most candidates, with seven players being named. The Big-12 is represented by six players. The SEC and Big East Conference have five players each on the Watch List. (SoonerSports PR)
OU defense suffers penalty plagued practice: Several defensive players came into the interview room Thursday pouring in sweat after a sloppy practice resulted in extra running for the defense. "We're nowhere close to being good enough," said defensive tackle Gerald McCoy. "We had way too many mistakes today." Bob Stoops called a coaches' meeting immediately after practice, meaning none of the defensive coaches were available for comment. According to McCoy, the defense was plagued by "penalties," "lack of intensity" and "mental errors." (The Oklahoman)
Holmes comfortable at both cornerback or safety: Don't ask Lendy Holmes where he's most comfortable, safety or cornerback. It's all the same to him. "I'm comfortable wherever I'm at," Holmes said. "I know both positions. I'll play either position." Holmes will likely be called on to do just that. Already this preseason, he's spent time atop the depth chart at both spots. "He could probably play wide receiver, too," Venables said. (The Oklahoman)
Quinton Carter expected out 2-3 weeks: Oklahoma backup strong safety Quinton Carter is expected to be out at least two weeks after undergoing minor knee surgery, coach Bob Stoops said Tuesday. Carter, a sophomore out of Las Vegas, was sharing a reserve role with redshirt freshman Desmond Jackson behind returning starting free safety Lendy Holmes. (The Oklahoman)
Sam Bradford named to Walter Camp watch list: Oklahoma quarterback Sam Bradford has been named to the preseason watch list for the Walter Camp Award, which is presented annually to the top player in college football. Bradford already had been named to watch lists for the watch lists for the Maxwell (top player) and O'Brien (top quarterback) awards. Last season, as a redshirt freshman, Bradford set an NCAA freshman record with 36 touchdown passes. He tossed just eight interceptions. Bradford is trying to become the fifth OU player to win the Camp Award. The most recent do so was Bradford's position coach, Josh Heupel, who received the honor in 2000. The watch list will be narrowed to 15 semi-finalists in early November. (SoonerSports PR)
English anxious about return: It had been so long since Auston English hit somebody, the junior defensive end found himself getting antsy Sunday night. "I was real anxious," English said. "Last night, I went to bed kind of feeling like I was getting ready for a game because it's been a while since I've taken snaps like that. "You want to get out there and not lose a step." English, joining full contact drills for the first time this preseason, at least looked comfortable Monday morning when the Sooners began their final week of preseason work. (The Oklahoman)
Update on kicker competition: Jimmy Stevens continues to lead in the race to replace kicker Garrett Hartley, but he is being pushed by Tulsans Tress Way and Matthew Moreland. "Jimmy Stevens was good on everything," Stoops said. "His deepest (field goal) was 50. He only had one shot at it and made it. He missed one at 53, but he made everything else from 50 on in. The other guys each missed one. Tress Way made one at 53. Matt Moreland missed one at 53. I'm really pleased with those guys." (Tulsa World)
Oklahoma receives verbal commitment from QB Drew Allen: Drew Allen, a three-star prospect from San Antonio's Alamo Heights High School, committed to the Sooners Sunday.Allen is the first quarterback in the Sooners' 2009 class, giving OU a third scholarship quarterback for 2009 to go with Sam Bradford and Landry Jones.A 6-foot-5, 209-pound prospect, Allen passed for 2,589 yards and 28 touchdowns a year ago, adding 254 yards and five touchdowns rushing.Allen chose OU over Oklahoma State, Colorado, Kansas State, Mississippi, Vanderbilt, Purdue and Wake Forest. (The Oklahoman)
Oklahoma ranked No. 4 in Associated Press preseason poll: Oklahoma was ranked No. 4 in the Associated Press preseason poll released today. The Sooners were the highest-ranked team in the Big 12 followed by No. 6 Missouri, No. 11 Texas, No. 12 Texas Tech and No. 14 Kansas. OU was also ranked at No. 4 in the Coaches Poll. OU has the most appearances at No. 1, in the Top 5 and in the Top 10 of the AP preseason poll. (SoonerSports.com)
Top 10 with Big 12 teams 1. Georgia (22) 2. Ohio State (21) 3. USC (12) 4. Oklahoma (4) 5. Florida (6) 6. Missouri 7. LSU 8. West Virginia 9. Clemson 10. Auburn 11. Texas 12. Texas Tech 14. Kansas
Coach Stoops on OU's AP ranking: "I have no idea what we are. It doesn't matter," he said after Saturday's scrimmage. "You gotta win. It's simple. We're working on that in practice. That's all I can do something about."
Coach Stoops on OU's second scrimmage: "This one was better," Stoops said. "I thought we showed improvement from the last scrimmage to this one. We were definitely sharper." No stats were released from this scrimmage
Granger missed practice with sore back: Coach Stoops was asked about DeMarcus Granger's place down the nose guards' depth chart. "That's only because his back was a little bit sore. He missed a few practices," Stoops said. "He's working and doing well." (Tulsa World)
Jarboe ineligible to play in 2008: According to Troy coach Larry Blakeney, Trojans wide receiver Josh Jarboe currently is not eligible to play this season after transferring from Oklahoma earlier this week. Because OU told Troy officials that they didn't refuse him admission for the fall, Blakeney said, Jarboe is now being treated as a transfer student by the NCAA, with this season being his sit-out year. Blakeney, however, told the Dothan (Ala.) Eagle that Troy will appeal his eligibility status for this year to the NCAA. (The Oklahoman)
Closed Scrimmage: Oklahoma holds a closed scrimmage today at the stadium.
Sooner Fans ESPN The Magazine needs you: ESPN The Magazine has a new series "A Season in the Stands" featuring college football's top four programs and their fans! Oklahoma is among the four featured with USC, Georgia and Ohio State. ESPN The Magazine is looking for University of Oklahoma students and fans to document their 2008 college football season in the stands. For more information visit ESPNTheMag.com.
Lendy Holmes moves back to free safety: After spending the first two weeks of preseason practice at cornerback, Lendy Holmes was moved back to free safety this week, clearing the way for Dominique Franks to move back into the starting lineup at field cornerback. "It's been good having Lendy over there working with Dom, and in all honesty Dom's had a pretty good camp," secondary coach Bobby Jack Wright said Thursday. "He's gotten much better the last couple of days. At the moment, Franks and Brian Jackson are OU's starting cornerbacks, with Holmes and Nic Harris starting at the safety spots. Redshirt freshman Sam Proctor has shifted into a backup role behind Harris at strong safety. "The competition is really the thing that keeps everybody on edge, keeps everybody focused, keeps everybody working to get better," Wright said. (The Oklahoman)
Jimmy Stevens ahead of competition? While one former Union Redskin, Franks, has made a move up the depth chart, another, Tress Way, appears to have slipped. Addressing his kicking game after practice Thursday, OU coach Bob Stoops said, "Jimmy might be a little bit ahead of them. He's got the lead." That's Jimmy Stevens, the Oklahoma City Heritage Hall redshirt freshman fighting Way to take over for Garrett Hartley as kicker. Stoops reported Stevens hit a field goal to close out an end-of-game two-minute drill at practice on Thursday. (Tulsa World)
Tim Brando, Spencer Tillman to call Oklahoma-UT Chattanooga: Oklahoma's season-opening football game against Chattanooga on Saturday, Aug. 30 at 6 p.m., CT will be televised live on pay-per-view by Big 12 Special Order Sports, FSN Southwest's pay-per-view division. The telecast will be available on participating cable television systems in Oklahoma and Texas and nationwide to satellite dish customers. Suggested retail price is $29.95. A list of participating programming providers carrying the PPV game will be announced later. Most programming providers will begin accepting orders the week of the game. Fans should check with their local provider for availability in their area. Tim Brando (play-by-play), former Oklahoma running back Spencer Tillman (analyst), former OU quarterback Paul Thompson (sideline reporter) and FSN Southwest's Emily Jones (sideline reporter) call the action. Former Oklahoma quarterback Dean Blevins will host the pay-per-view telecast from Memorial Stadium in Norman, Okla., and will anchor a one-hour pregame show, which will commemorate coach Bob Stoops' 10th season at Oklahoma. (SoonerSports PR)
Coach Stoops watches the Olympics like the rest of us: While former OU gymnast Jonathan Horton was leading the USA to a bronze medal, coach Bob Stoops was tuned in at home Monday night, cheering on a fellow Sooner. "Jonathan Horton was absolutely amazing last night, wasn't he?" Stoops said. "Loved it. And what a leader. I was really proud watching him. I thought he was fabulous." Stoops said he's a fan of the Olympics, appreciating all that goes into making that grand stage and then responding to it. "All of them, I like watching all of it," Stoops said. "What's so neat about it is you get that one moment to be at your best. That's what I love about boxing as well. "You get that one shot. And if you happen to have over-trained, or you don't hit it just right..."(The Oklahoman)
Limited tickets remain for UT Chattanooga and Cincinnati: The University of Oklahoma has a limited number of tickets remaining for each of its first two home games, the Aug. 30 opener against Tennessee-Chattanooga and the Sept. 6 contest against Cincinnati. The tickets became available when they were returned by the visiting teams. The UTC tickets are $49 each, while the Cincinnati tickets are on sale at $62 each. Kickoff times are already set for both games. The Sooners and Chattanooga will start at 6 p.m., with the UC game slated at 2:30 p.m. Tickets can be purchased online at SoonerSports.com, in person at the office located on the stadium's west side or on the phone at 405/325-2424 or 1-800-456-GoOU (4008). (SoonerSports PR)
Oklahoma No. 1 in Playboy's annual Pigskin Preview: Playboy magazine has the Sooners ranked No. 1 in its annual Pigskin Preview. Ohio State, Florida, Missouri and USC round out Playboy's top 5. Also, OU offensive lineman Duke Robinson was named to the magazine's All-American team. (Norman Transcript)
Dismissed Sooner Josh Jarboe to play at Troy University: The Birmingham News reports.. Troy University head football coach Larry Blakeney announced today that the Trojans have added Josh Jarboe, one of the top 10 receivers in the 2008 recruiting class, to the roster.
In a press release, Blakeney said, "Troy University has always been interested in providing opportunities for young people to better themselves, and this is a situation where a young man who has made some mistakes is looking for a second chance.
"I have met with Josh, and I am convinced that he is ready, and willing, to do the things we need for him to do to be a productive member of both this football team and the Troy University community."
Austin Box has knee surgery; "doubtful" for season opener: Oklahoma linebacker Austin Box underwent arthroscopic knee surgery Tuesday to repair torn cartilage in his left knee. OU head coach Bob Stoops said that the anticipated recovery time is three weeks. Stoops called Box "doubtful" for the season opener against Tennessee-Chattanooga, but "probable" for game two against Cincinnati. (SoonerSports.com)
DeMarco Murray returns to practice: Oklahoma running back DeMarco Murray has returned to practice at full speed this week. He was hobbled by an ankle sprain throughout the first week. "I did some of the practice stuff, but I haven't really been able to go all out until this week," Murray said following Tuesday's practice. "It's good to get back out there." OU coach Bob Stoops said Murray isn't showing any lingering effects. "He looked fine today," Stoops said. "That (ankle injury) was a minor deal." (Norman Transcript)
Jaz Reynolds verbally commits to OU: Monday night, Oklahoma got a commitment from Jaz Reynolds, a three-star receiver out of Aldine (Texas) Eisenhower High School. The 6-foot-2, 180-pound Reynolds chose the Sooners over a host of schools, including Colorado, Kansas, Kentucky, Minnesota, Nebraska and Virginia. "I had been up to OU a couple of times, saw them play A&M, went to their junior day," Reynolds said. "When they offered, I just wanted to be a Sooner." Reynolds was recruited by first-year OU wide receivers coach Jay Norvell. (The Oklahoman)
Mensik back after hamstring injury: Assistant coach Kevin Wilson said he hasn't identified the third player to go with Jermaine Gresham and Brody Eldridge in his three-tight end set just yet. It likely will be Eric Mensik, but he's been out with a sore hamstring. Mensik returned to practice this week. "It's kind of a weird deal," Wilson said. "It's not a pull. It's kind of like where it attaches to the bone. They keep looking at it. It's a pain tolerance deal." (Tulsa World)
Sooners begin two-a-days: Heavy rain greeted the Sooners Monday morning as two-a-day practices commenced. The team worked inside the Everest Training Facility for the second time this preseason beginning at 9 a.m. Oklahoma will alternate between two-a-day and single practices this week with Monday, Wednesday and Friday scheduled as the double days. The team's second scrimmage will be Saturday at the stadium. The August 18th practices will be open to the public but all other practices and scrimmages are closed. (More at SoonerSports.com)
English still recovering: Starting defensive ends Auston English and Jeremy Beal continue their recovery from ailments. English says he is still a week from returning full-go from his appendectomy. "I'm just lifting, conditioning, trying to maintain what I have, gradually getting into some non-contact drills, footwork, things like that," he said. "It's really frustrating because you see those guys making strides and really meshing as a D-line. You want to be in the mix and get that cohesion with the rest of the group." (Tulsa World)
Jarboe to choose a college this week? In a T-shirt, shorts and trademark dreads, Jarboe strolled the buggy Cedar Grove practice field last week while his old team worked out in the heat. He talked to coaches, gave tips to players, answered calls on his cellphone. Coaches say a string of schools have called -- from Big Ten and SEC programs to historically black colleges. He's eligible to play this season and could choose a new school this week. (Atlanta Journal-Constitution)
Oklahoma walk-on transfers to Southeastern: A walk-on football player for the Oklahoma Sooners is transferring to his hometown school. Quarterback Bo White of Durant has enrolled at NCAA Division II Southeastern Oklahoma State and plans to play for the Savage Storm. White had moved into a dormitory at Oklahoma and attended two practices, but said he mostly just stood around during the workouts. He says he didn't want to do that for two years. (AP/SportingNews)
Deep snapper Shaw recovering: Veteran deep snapper Derek Shaw is still wearing a boot on his foot after partially severing his Achilles tendon early in the summer. Shaw, who's been OU's deep snapper the past two seasons, said he's hoping to be back in time for Chattanooga. "The problem isn't snapping," Shaw said. "It's blocking and the footwork." (The Oklahoman)
Gresham on leaving to the NFL early: Wednesday he (Jermaine Gresham) said an early jump is unlikely. "My first goal here is to get a degree," Gresham said. "I really don't see that (leaving early) happening. The other reason is I don't think I'm good enough. "If I had (Adrian Peterson's) talent, it would be a no-brainer. But I don't have that kind of talent." (Norman Transcript)
DeMarco Murray suffers minor ankle sprain: Running back DeMarco Murray saw limited work Friday after suffering what coach Bob Stoops said is a "slight sprain on his ankle" during practice Wednesday. "He's fine," Stoops said. "It's a minor one. We were limited in what we had him do today. It's a small twist that wasn't a big deal." (The Oklahoman)
Coach Stoops on The Dan Patrick Show: Oklahoma's Bob Stoops appeared on The Dan Patrick Show to discuss a variety of topics from Brett Favre to Big 12 football including former Sooner Josh Jarboe.
Coach Stoops on..
Reaction to seeing the video: "Just disappointed. I understand there are different styles of music. In the end, it was the two of them together, the fact that he came in with an arrest already and with the understanding from us, nothing but exemplary behavior was going to be tolerated. And the expressions, regardless how its music its rap or whatever.
When asked if he fought to keep Josh Jarboe on the team:
"No. It was something that needed to be thought through and discussed.
Jarboe's reaction to the news:
"It was very difficult. He was very hurt and crushed. But understood where we had to be."
Full audio of the interview can be found at DanPatrick.com under interviews.
LSU offense tackle, Jarvis Jones transfers to Oklahoma: Sophomore offensive tackle Jarvis Jones has transferred from LSU to the University of Oklahoma and will be eligible to play football at OU in 2009. Jones is enrolled at Oklahoma for the upcoming fall semester and attended practice Thursday, watching from the sideline while wearing shorts and a T-shirt, OU spokesman Kenny Mossman said. Jones, a 6-foot-7, 295-pound native of Rosenberg, Texas, was dismissed from the LSU football team on July 17 for violating unspecified team rules. Coach Bob Stoops on Thursday declined to be interviewed, but in an OU press release, said, "Jarvis is a talented guy who we recruited when he was in high school. We're excited that he has joined the team." (Tulsa World)
Britt Mitchell to play at UTEP not joining the Marines: [Britt] Mitchell, a freshman offensive lineman who enrolled at OU early to participate with the team during this past spring, quit the squad during the summer in order to join the Marines. Instead, Mitchell transferred to UTEP to play football, according to a report in the El Paso Times. "I just didn't enjoy it up there" in Norman, Mitchell told the Times. "Since I've been here at UTEP I've loved every minute of it. I like it a lot better here." (The Oklahoman)
Practice time changed: Today's practice has been rescheduled to 9:30 from 9:00 a.m. at the OU Rugby Fields.
Beal in a cast, not expected to miss any practice time: Defensive end Jeremy Beal was seen wearing a cast on his hand Thursday. The sophomore said he broke a bone in his hand but he wouldn't miss any practice time. The Sooners are counting on Beal to start at end opposite Preseason Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year Auston English. (The Oklahoman)
A stinging defeat in the Fiesta Bowl is motivating a Sooners defense that is eager to make amends
The banner hangs front and center in the Oklahoma locker room, bearing comments made by West Virginia quarterback Pat White moments after the Mountaineers had demolished the Sooners, 48-28, in the Fiesta Bowl last January. In so many words, White said that West Virginia was hungrier that night. "I look at that thing every time I'm in there," senior strong safety Nic Harris says.
Oklahoma's defenders needed to take a hard look at themselves after they gave up 525 yards, including 349 on the ground. The memory has provided motivation for a group that must break in a pair of linebackers and two starting cornerbacks in a conference loaded with high-octane offenses.
The Sooners, who added a no-huddle set in the spring, have a big-play offense of their own, led by quarterback Sam Bradford, who last year threw for an NCAA freshman-record 36 touchdowns and led the nation in passing efficiency. All five starters on the line are back, as are running backs DeMarco Murray and Chris Brown, who combined to rush for 1,375 yards and 22 touchdowns. But if Oklahoma expects to win a sixth Big 12 title in nine years and contend for the national championship, it can't expect to win a shootout every week. That's where Harris and junior middle linebacker Ryan Reynolds come in....
Oklahoma Sooner fans find more inside Sports Illustrated College Football Preview Issue on newsstands today.
Lendy Holmes back at corner: Holmes, who spent all of last season and this past spring at free safety, is back working at the field cornerback spot in practice. That was the position Holmes started at during the 2006 season, when he earned honorable mention All-Big 12 honors. Junior Brian Jackson is currently starting at the other cornerback spot, with sophomore Jonathan Nelson backing him up. Sophomore Dominique Franks, who had three picks in the Red-White spring game, is playing behind Holmes. That means Nic Harris is moving from strong safety to free safety, and redshirt freshman Sam Proctor, who had a terrific spring, is in the starting lineup at the moment at strong safety. (The Oklahoman)
Auston English injury update: Defensive end Auston English underwent an appendectomy recently and is being held out of preseason practices until fully healed. He said Wednesday he expects to be back on the field by OU's Aug. 30 season opener against Tennessee-Chattanooga. "It's really just day-to-day and depends on how I'm feeling and on how our medical staff wants to do it." he said. (Norman Transcript)
Balogun surprises OU coaching staff: Junior college transfer linebacker Mike Balogun, expected to rotate with Ryan Reynolds in the middle, has been so impressive in just three days of camp that defensive coordinator Brent Venables said his role might be expanded." He may be one of our top three linebackers," Venables said. Balogun, who is 6-foot-2 and 250 pounds, was selected the Defensive Player of the Year in his conference last season at Lackawanna (Md.) College. (Star-Telegram)
Gredham happy about his former HS coach's move: When Gresham heard of Mike Loyd leaving Ardmore High School for a job in Florida, he was happy for his high school coach. "I talked to him all the time," Gresham said. "If he likes it down there and thinks he can better himself down there with an opportunity, I'm all for him. He is a great coach. He taught me all I need to know. He is reason why I'm here today. I would be playing college football if it wasn't for him, so I'm very happy or him." (Norwich Bulletin)
Interesting item: As posted at The Lost Ogle, Josh and Jenna sitting in a tree, and originally posted at The Dirty. Judge for yourself.. Hmmm...
Coach Stoops on Sam Bradford at OU Media Day: "He is stronger in the weight room and in the years of maturity. He is a stronger guy. I know he will be more comfortable in the position going through 14 games a year ago. I think just play within the system, take what is there and be smart and, I think, naturally, just some pocket presence. I think that the hardest think to teach young guys is to stay in the pocket, trust it and throw it. He really has that and always has. I think there are some times he can escape it maybe a little bit better but it may come naturally to him."
Sooner Coaches, players join National Marrow donor list: Bob Stoops was among 84 individuals who placed their names on the National Marrow Donor Program list today during Oklahoma's football media day. A majority of the team followed the lead of the head coach, as did several OU athletics department staff members and at least one representative from the news media. Stoops and the Oklahoma football program are part of a growing number of people stepping up to register as potential bone marrow donors with the NMDP. "It's rare when you might get a chance to save a life," Stoops said. "This process could lead to that for someone." Stoops, who has been regular visitor to children stricken with cancer, got the idea when athletes at Wagner College held a similar registry. "We didn't pressure our guys to participate," he said. "We just made it available to them. It was nice to see a number of them respond." (SoonerSports.com) To find out more information about National Marrow Donor Program visit www.marrow.org
Stoops to sign autographs after Friday's practice: The OU head coach will sign autographs this Friday following an open practice. Stoops will sign in the Lloyd Noble Center after the practice, which is scheduled to conclude at approximately 11:30 a.m. Fans interested in attending the event should enter the LNC through the main West entrance. Those doors will open at 11 a.m. The signing session will last for two hours. Fans will be restricted to one item to be autographed. (SoonersSports PR)
McCoy nominated for Allstate AFCA Good Works Team: OU defensive tackle Gerald McCoy has been nominated for the 2008 Allstate AFCA Good Works Team. McCoy is among 71 football players nominated from across the country. From the group, a panel of judges will select two 11-man teams -- one representing players at the Football Bowl Subdivision level, the second consisting of players at the Football Championship Subdivision level. (The Oklahoman)
Meet the Sooners tomorrow: The annual Meet the Sooners Day presented by Alltel has been set for August 6, 2008, at the rugby fields west of the Lloyd Noble Center. The event, which is highlighted by Oklahoma football coaches and players signing autographs, draws thousands of fans to Norman each year. Admission to Meet the Sooners Day is free and open to the public. Members of the OG&E Sooner Kids Club are admitted to Meet the Sooners Day 30 minutes before the general public. (More info. at SoonerSports.com) UPDATED: Coach Stoops unable to attend Meet the Sooners: Oklahoma head coach Bob Stoops will not be in attendance at Wednesday's Meet the Sooners event while he attends a memorial service for the late Bobby Murcer. Stoops will instead sign autographs Friday after the team's open practice. "I regret the inconvenience to our fans, but Bobby and I were good friends and I want to be at his service in support of his family," Stoops said. "I will look forward to seeing many of our fans on Friday." The logistics of the Friday signing will be announced within the next 48 hours.
Schedule 10:30 a.m. - OG&E Sooner Kids Club Members admitted to autograph session 11 a.m. - General public admitted to the rugby practice field 12:30 p.m. - Players and coaches must depart rugby practice field
NOTE: Fans are permitted to bring ONE autograph item per person -- NO exceptions.
OU football practice pushed back again due to heat: For the second straight day Oklahoma moved its football practice back due to excessive heat in the Norman area. The Sooners will begin the workout at 5:45 p.m., on the OU Rugby Fields. Again on Tuesday forecasters are looking for temperatures to top the 100-degree mark. With winds hovering in the 5-10 miles per hour range, the heat index is projected at 106 degrees and could climb higher. The team will be on the field for approximately two hours.(SoonerSports PR)
Early 2008 Heisman odds, Tebow and Wells early favorites: Here are the early 2008 Hesiman odds courtesy of TheSpread.com, Oklahoma has DeMarco Murrary and Sam Bradford included in the early favorites. (Big 12 players highlighted too)
Tim Tebow (FL) 7/2 Chris Wells (Ohio St.) 6/1 Knowshon Moreno (UGA) 8/1 Chase Daniel (Missouri) 9/1 Pat White (WVU) 10/1 Michael Crabtree (TTech) 10/1 Matthew Stafford (UGA) 14/1 DeMarco Murray (Okla) 15/1 Graham Harrell (TTech) 15/1 Percy Harvin (FL) 15/1 Sam Bradford (Okla) 16/1 LeSean McCoy (Pitt) 22/1 P.J. Hill (Wisc) 22/1 Cullen Harper (Clem)25/1 Joe McKnight (USC) 25/1 Colt McCoy (Tex) 28/1 Todd Reesing (Kan) 30/1 Jeremy Maclin (Missouri) 40/1 Zac Robinson (Ok. State) 75/1
New comers receive their numbers; Jermie Calhoun #23: Newcomers officially wore their OU numbers for the first time on the practice field including junior transfer Mike Balogun (10) at linebacker, freshman running back Jermie Calhoun (23) and freshman Stephen Good (77) at offensive line. SoonerSports.com released an updated printable roster to assist fans in learning the new jersey numbers. (SoonerSports.com)
Coach Stoops on Oklahoma's first fall practice: "We worked on just about everthing, every part of the game," said Stoops. "I saw a lot of good things. There was excellent carry over from spring practice and that's always something you look for in your early August workouts. The guys really looked good. "We got a chance to look at a lot of young guys. We would like to play every one of them this season if that's the way it work outs. "We worked on the no-huddle some. I was pleased. "The heat was no factor at all. They've worked out in this heat for a lot of the summer. "I thought our specialists looked good. We've got a couple new long snappers (James Winchester, Ben Hampton) and both of them were impressive."
Defense Coordinator Brent Venables: "I think we found some players. We've had a few question marks, but I was pleased with the development. Now we're pretty simplistic right now and we'll put more in every day, so we'll see how much we progress, but overall I was pretty happy."
Offense Coordinator Kevin Wilson: "All eight of the freshmen played with the two's. They have the skill level to be on the field. We need to see how they hold up and how much they learn. Our job is to get them up to speed."
Sooners to open two practices, no scrimmages open to the public: University of Oklahoma head football coach Bob Stoops announced today that his team will open two practices to the public. Those two workouts are set for Friday, Aug. 8 and Monday, Aug. 18. Both practices will be held at the OU Rugby Fields east of the Lloyd Noble Center. A viewing area is available from the berm that borders that facility on the south side. Parking is available in the LNC lot. Stoops said that his team's preseason scrimmages will be closed this season. "I wish we could open the scrimmages for our fans, but we are adding a few wrinkles and it's better for us if we can work on those things in a scrimmage setting without restraint," he said. "I hope the fans that want to see us before the season begins can take advantage of the open practices. We appreciate their support and I know it's a lift for our team to see them too during this time of year when our players and coaches are working so hard." Both the Aug. 8 and Aug. 18 practices are slated for 9-11:30 a.m.(SoonerSports PR)
Oklahoma fans can expect game day parking changes: The City of Norman has modified the parking plan for public streets this year in an effort to improve the game day experience and increase public safety, Norman police Capt. Mike Praizner said in a release. This year all public street parking will be clearly identified by parking signs, Praizner said. "By following the parking signs, game day parking will be done in an orderly fashion that will allow the Fire Department and other public safety vehicles to access any necessary areas around the University of Oklahoma," he said. The most visible change to fans and citizens will be parking limited to one side of a street in some areas. In order to accommodate fans who may be displaced from a former parking place, OU plans to add paid parking in a lot on the east side of George Avenue, just south of OU's duck pond, Praizner said. The University will continue to offer free parking at the Lloyd Noble Center. (More at Norman Transcript)
Sooner begin 2008 fall workouts: Oklahoma's football team, ranked No. 4 in the USA Today/Coaches preseason poll, arrived in Norman Sunday to begin preparations for the 2008 season. The squad went through a lengthy orientation session during afternoon in the Kerr-McGee Stadium Club. Dinner was served at 6 p.m., and the players dispersed for the evening. Monday, the first day of practice, begins with conditioning and a weight lifting test at 7:30 a.m., before breakfast is served at 8:45 a.m. A series of meetings begins at 11:30 a.m., before a 4:30 p.m., practice. The workout is scheduled to conclude at 6:30 p.m.(SoonerSports PR)
David Sims expected to report late: Safety David Sims is not expected to be around for Oklahoma's first practice today. Defensive coordinator Brent Venables said he didn't know when the junior-college transfer would report, but that it should be some time before OU's Sept. 30 [editors note: correct date is Aug. 30] opener against Tennessee-Chattanooga. Sims, out of Oroville, Calif., is still trying to complete his academic work at Butte Community College, which he must do before coming to Norman. Venables was counting on Sims competing for OU's nickelback position, which is usually played by the team's third safety.(The Oklahoman) Walk-on Allgood career over: Sophomore walk-on tight end Ryan Allgood will no longer being playing football after doctors recently discovered two degenerating discs in his lower back. Allgood, who attended Grove High School, saw time last season in wins over North Texas and Utah State. (The Oklahoman)
Josh Jarboe dismissed from Oklahoma football team: Josh Jarboe has been dismissed from the OU football team. Statement from Bob Stoop on the Jarboe matter.
"We are disappointed in this outcome, but our complete review and this final decision is in the best interest of our program" Stoops said. "We outlined for Josh the expectations we had for him when he arrived and, unfortunately, those expectations have not been met. Josh needs to learn from this experience. We hope he can move forward in a positive manner."
"I'm heartbroken for the young man," said Sebree. "It shows that he [Josh Jaboe] needs some kind of assistance that he obviously can't get from DeKalb County and can't get from Oklahoma. He had a large opportunity to do something great with his life."
Josh Jarboe likely to remain with team: Stoops indicated Thursday he won't remove Jarboe from the squad. "Kick a guy off the team for what he says?" Stoops said. The whole Internet culture frustrates Stoops. "We're starting to talk about everything kids say and do," Stoops said. "Now we're in people's homes, in their private spaces." (The Oklahoman) Related:Josh Jarboe is back! This time freestyling!!
Gresham on Mackey watch list: Oklahoma tight end Jermaine Gresham is among those on the preseason watch list for the 2008 John Mackey Award. The honor is presented annually by the Nassau County Sports Commission to the top tight end in college football. The 6-6, 261-pound Gresham, who also is on the watch list for the Maxwell Award as college football's top overall player, was an honorable mention All-American last year by Sports Illustrated after hauling in 37 receptions for 518 yards and 11 touchdowns. The TD figure was the second-highest in school history. A junior from Ardmore, Okla., Gresham ranks No. 11 all-time at Oklahoma with 12 touchdown grabs. (SoonerSports PR)
