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Spring Football: 2008 Oklahoma Sooners Spring Football section
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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and NotesClayton continues to impress: Converted safety Keenan Clayton continued to make his push at strongside linebacker Saturday by playing, according to Stoops, every snap of the scrimmage. "Keenan Clayton did an excellent job," the coach said. "He's turning into a really solid player." Clayton made four tackles, picked up one of OU's six sacks and created one of the Sooners' three defensive touchdowns. (Tulsa World)Small crowd: The official attendance for yesterday's Red/White game was 23,306.
Coach Stoops impressed with corners play: Cornerback Brian Jackson and safety Sam Proctor also broke up a pair of passes and the offense’s lack of big plays. "I thought their positioning was great. I thought the corners were excellent," OU coach Bob Stoops said. "Guys like Sam Proctor had big days that really showed. They were in position all day and that’s pleasing to see as a coach." (Norman Transcript)Injury Report: Players who missed the scrimmage: Cornerback Quinton Carter (hamstring), defensive end Auston English (shoulder), linebacker Austin Box (elbow), wide receivers Ryan Broyles (collarbone) and Adron Tennell (knee), offensive tackle Duke Robinson (ankle), safety Nic Harris (shoulder), defensive end John Williams (heel) and tailbacks DeMarco Murray (knee) and Chris Brown (knee). (The Oklahoman)
Fan calls first offensive touchdown in scrimmage: [Shae] Farmer is the Carrollton, Ga., resident who won an auction to call four plays during Saturday's scrimmage. He didn't know exactly what play he wanted to call, but Farmer knew he wanted tight end Jermaine Gresham going deep. So the call came down from the coaches' box for a play-action pass. Quarterback Sam Bradford laid the ball out perfectly for Gresham to run under it and the tight end beat two defenders to the goal line for the first offensive touchdown of the game. In fact, it was the only offensive touchdown until a pair of scores in the final three minutes of the game. Farmer and his wife, Kimberly, had no interest in attending Saturday's game, though they planned to come to Norman at some point, maybe this fall. After hearing about the SoonerSports.com auction, the two decided to post a bid, joking with each other about how funny it would be if they won. And they did. But the $2,900 he paid to call four plays was only part of the battle. They still had to get to Oklahoma, a 13-hour drive from their Georgia home. "I crossed into Oklahoma state lines for the first time (Friday)," Farmer said. "This stadium is gorgeous. It's unreal. It's a once-in-a-lifetime experience to even get over here and see something like this. You see it on TV, then you get here and it's everything you thought it could be. "It's well worth it." (The Oklahoman) Defense impressive in spring game: SoonerSports.comCoach for one play, that's all he needed: Norman Transcript Stoops says experiment with no-huddle is 'still a work in progress': The Oklahoman Bradford relives Tech game, saves touchdown with tackle: The OklahomanCoaches were correct -- Defense didn't miss a beat: The OklahomanGrading the Red-White game: The OklahomanFranks anchors strong OU defense: Tulsa WorldNo QB fuss -- Sam's the man: Tulsa WorldSooner thrill -- Calling TD play: Tulsa World Oklahoma's defense supplies big plays in spring game: Dallas Morning NewsLabels: Defense, Injuries, Keenan Clayton, Oklahoma Sooners, Red White Game
Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and NotesColeman out due to injury; Reed out due to personal matters: Senior defensive tackle Steven Coleman likely won't play this week at Iowa State because of a strained abdominal muscle, said defensive coordinator Brent Venables. He said linebacker Ryan Reynolds will play despite injuries to his neck, arm, shoulder and both knees. Venables also said backup linebacker Mike Reed, who didn't suit up for the Missouri game, will miss the Iowa State trip while tending to personal matters. Reed's wife had surgery and he's been taking care of the couple's two small children. (Tulsa World)Murray's ankle "feels better": Running back DeMarco Murray played sparingly against Missouri because of a slight sprain on the outside of his left ankle he suffered the week before against Texas. "It feels better now,” Murray said. "But it was hurting me last week.” (NewsOK.com)Limited OU @ Texas Tech tickets available: A limited number of tickets are available for the Nov. 17 game at Texas Tech. Cost of the tickets are $65 and are first-come, first-served. Tickets can be purchased by phone (800-456-4668) during normal business hours, at the ticket office on the west side of Memorial Stadium or online at SoonerSports.com. (Tulsa World)Stoops, Sooners focused on Cyclones: SoonerSports.comSooners can't do it all themselves: Norman Transcript Now is no time to relax expectations: Norman Transcript Seriously high praise for Lofton: Norman TranscriptMcCoy is anchor for family, team after his mother's death: Tulsa WorldThese tranquil times bode well for Stoops: Tulsa WorldColleges, especially OU, take spying as serious threat: Tulsa WorldDefense's job against Tigers worth noting: Ft. Worth Star-TelegramBig 12 Roundtable - The No-Name Edition: Double-T NationLabels: DeMarco Murray, Injuries, Texas Tech, Tickets
Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes Allen Patrick and Brody Eldridge to be heldout of scrimmage: Running back Allen Patrick and tight end Brody Eldridge will be held out of Oklahoma's scrimmage on Saturday because of injuries, Oklahoma coach Bob Stoops said. Stoops said he didn't have a timeframe for when Patrick would return other than "when he's ready." "It'll be next week sometime hopefully," Stoops said Friday. Eldridge has been practicing after having surgery to fix a broken ankle this summer, but he was held out of the first scrimmage. "I don't want to get Brody in there. He's played enough," Stoops said. (AP/NewsOK.com) Sooners to Recite Oath: SoonerSports.com Labels: Allen Patrick, Brody Eldridge, Injuries, Oklahoma Sooners, Scrimmage
Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and NotesSooners search for backup at center: At right guard, Brandon Walker is the returning starter, but Brian Simmons held the spot last spring while Walker worked his way back from knee surgery. Now the two could end up splitting time. And the newest battle is for the backup job at center. With the announcement Tuesday that sophomore Chase Beeler had left the team, that spot on the depth chart became vacant. OU coach Bob Stoops said Wednesday that Walker is capable of playing center, but the coaching staff is also looking at sophomore Noah Hughey and true freshman Jason Hannan in that role. (NewsOK.com)
QB race still wide open: It appears Oklahoma will conduct its second major preseason scrimmage Saturday night with Keith Nichol, Sam Bradford and Joey Halzle all still in the hunt. "Not trying to drag it out, but right now, like we've got three tight ends, we've kind of got three quarterbacks," offensive coordinator Kevin Wilson said Thursday between the Sooners' two practices. "Everybody says no one's separating, but it's not because they're stinking. They're all playing really good. So we'll just let them keep playing." Wilson said all three took snaps in Wednesday night's mini-scrimmage, when the Sooners ran the ball more than they did in the previous Saturday's full scrimmage, concentrating particularly on short-yardage situations. (Tulsa World)Oklahoma breaks ground on statue work: Dirt work has begun beside the statues honoring Heisman Trophy winners Steve Owens and Billy Vessels in the areas that will eventually house statues for OU's other Heisman winners, Billy Sims and Jason White. The statues, which will be located on either side of the Owens and Vessels statues east of Owen Field, will be unveiled this fall. (NewsOK.com)
Injury Report: Branndon Braxton, battling Trent Williams to start at right tackle, has recovered from an ankle injury and is practicing. Cory Brandon, who was second-team right tackle, has missed time with a concussion. Tight end / fullback Brody Eldridge, coming off ankle surgery, is practicing but not participating in major contact situations. Defensive tackle Gerald McCoy is still hampered by a hamstring injury. (Tulsa World)Thursday evening practice coverage: SoonerSports.comOU confident with bevy of backs: SoonerSports.com
QB Race Even: Oklahoma Daily
Last tango in Miami: The OklahomanReynolds recovers to land starting job: The Oklahoman
Tight ends do more than catch: The OklahomanO-line competition fierce: Tulsa WorldExtra five yards on kickoffs may give OU returners a boost: Tulsa WorldReed a big hitter for Sooners: Norman Transcript
Strong play keeping QB race going: Norman TranscriptLinebacker's return has Sooners hopeful: Dallas Morning NewsOU walk-on DT Taggart getting noticed: Dallas Morning NewsOB race wide open at Oklahoma: CNNSILabels: 2007 Storyline, Heisman Statue, Injuries, Offense Line, Oklahoma Sooners, Quarterbacks
Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes Braxton and Williams returned to practice Monday: Senior free safety Darien Williams and offensive tackle Branndon Braxton returned to practice Monday. For Williams, it was the first practice of the year. Offseason knee surgery kept him out of spring practice, and a surgically repaired stress fracture in his foot forced him to miss the beginning of training camp. "He was a little rusty out there," defensive coordinator Brent Venables said. "Gotta get to communicating, quit thinking. But it was good to see him back." Braxton's ankle injury was minor. (NewsOK.com) Sooners to find direction at QB this week? Oklahoma could see some movement in the quarterback race by the end of the week, offensive coordinator Kevin Wilson said Monday."This is a big week," he said. "We're going to work on our identity, No. 1. I think as this week goes, we need to probably start making the decisions."The Sooners have set a mini-scrimmage for Wednesday and another major scrimmage Saturday night. (Star-Telegram) Patrick on crutches at practice: Senior running back Allen Patrick, the Sooners' expected starter, left Monday morning's practice on crutches with his right foot in a protective boot. (Dallas Morning News) Pair of Sooners demoted: DeMarcus Granger and Steven Coleman, who both saw significant action last season, were demoted because they showed up to preseason camp out of shape. "It's all about playing hard," [Jackie] Shipp said. (Norman Transcript)
OU opens second week of preseason: SoonerSports.comPreseason practice video interviews: SoonerSports.comOU to scrimmage twice this week as it seeks QB: Tulsa WorldCoaches pleased with trio: Tulsa WorldOklahoma Practice Report: Tulsa WorldReceiving corps is a strength for '07 Sooners: The OklahomanIrving-ex Tennell seeing better at OU: Dallas Morning News
Labels: 2007 Storyline, Allen Patrick, Branndon Braxton, Darien Williams, Injuries, Practice, Quarterbacks
Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and NotesR. Smith held out of scrimmage: [Bob] Stoops said [Reggie] Smith's day off was a preventive decision. "Reggie's got just a slight nagging deal in his leg. It isn't anything serious. We're just making sure this is the time to get it healed," Stoops said. "He could have gone today, but we're going to make sure it's healed and where it needs to be. I don't want it to bother him through the year." Patrick wore a medical boot on his right leg and was on crutches due to the ankle injury he suffered Wednesday. He's expected to be out at least another week. (Norman Transcript)Others held out: Fred Strong, Brody Eldridge, Kody Cooke, Jonte Bumpus, Eric Mensik. (NewsOK.com) Oklahoma-TCU rematch? A game is needed to finish off the 2008 and 2009 schedules, and TCU is thinking big -- as in Big 12, Big Ten and Big East -- in its search for opponents. Athletic department officials said the contract for a home-and-home series against Oklahoma, which would begin next season, is almost finalized. The Horned Frogs would travel to Norman, Okla., on Sept. 27, 2008, after opening with home games against Stephen F. Austin and Stanford. A game at SMU, originally scheduled for Sept. 27, is likely to be moved to Sept. 20. (Star-Telegram)Labels: Future Schedule, Injuries, Oklahoma Sooners, Reggie Smith, Scrimmage, TCU
Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes
Oklahoma QBs talk about getting the nod: From the Tulsa World..
"It'd be great for me," Joey Halzle said. "This is what I've been working at my whole life. I've always wanted to get to this level, and once I got to this level, play. So this would be one of my dreams come true."
"It would mean a lot," said Sam Bradford. "Growing up here, my dad played here, just coming to the games as a kid, it's kind of been one of my dreams growing up as a kid. I think it would definitely mean a lot to me to walk out there and play in front of 85,000."
"I think everybody, every little kid, dreams of that moment," said Keith Nichol. "You watch college football at home on Saturdays, just a year ago, I was watching preseason stuff on ESPN. I was dreaming of it then, what it'd be like. To say I wasn't doing it now would be a lie. So yeah, I dream of it."
Large crowd at Meet the Sooners: OU's annual Meet the Sooners Day drew an estimated 10,000 fans on Friday, according to the school's event management staff. (Tulsa World)
McEachern to play after all: [Hayes] McEachern, a film and video studies major, was on hand Friday and said he plans to play this season after all. "I kind of determined that if I look back on it in a couple years, will I regret quitting?” McEachern said. "And I figured I would.” (NewsOK.com)
Eldridge back in limited role: Tight end / fullback Brody Eldridge injured his knee and ankle in the Red / White Game (he had a screw implanted in his leg to stabilize the ankle), but seems to be on his way back. "Brody Eldridge is hands-down the best blocker on our football team," said offensive coordinator Kevin Wilson, who added that Eldridge has returned to practice in a limited role. "They don't want to overdo it and have some irritation." (Tulsa World)
OU coaches visit Patriots' camp: Last weekend, Bob Stoops and several assistants were on the sidelines for a couple of New England Patriot workouts. "Tom Brady's arm wasn't very impressive, but his anticipation and his knowledge and his placement of the ball was so strong," OU offensive coordinator Kevin Wilson noted. It's a point that relates to the Sooners' three starting quarterback candidates. (Tulsa World)
D. Williams back in week or two: Senior starting free safety Darien Williams is "still another week or so away” after undergoing surgery to repair a stress fracture in his foot July 16. "He's moving around and said he feels great,” Stoops said. (NewsOK.com)
It's English's time to shine on Sooner D-line: The Oklahoman
Sooners' QB possibility -- Go with 2: The Oklahoman
McCoy arrives with heavy heart: The Oklahoman
Running backs will have to share wealth: The Oklahoman
Glamour position not big draw for autograph seekers: The Oklahoman
Sooners counting on Reynolds: The Oklahoman
With Williams out, Sooners' DBs get a chance to shine: Tulsa World
Fans serenade Sooner head coach: Tulsa World
Lines long for Stoops, others: Tulsa World
Stoops doesn't rule out using two QBs: Tulsa World
Meet the QB candidates: Tulsa World
Aggie coach tries to agitate Sooners: Tulsa World
Q&A with Bob Stoops: Tulsa World
Strong up front: Norman Transcript
Reynolds back on the field: Norman Transcript
Who's the next QB?: Norman Transcript
Madu is sometimes the forgotten man in OU's crowded backfield: Norman Transcript
Will OU use two QBs?: Norman TranscriptLabels: Brody Eldridge, Darien Williams, Injuries, Oklahoma Sooners, Quarterbacks, University of Oklahoma
Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes
OU's Harris on Lott Watch List: University of Oklahoma defensive back Nic Harris has been named to the preseason watch list for the 2007 Ronnie Lott Trophy.Harris, a junior from Alexandria, La., played nickel back and strong safety last season and is expected to line up exclusively at strong safety this season. He is one of 42 defenders on the watch list.Harris was third on the OU team last season with 68 tackles and led the Sooners with four interceptions. (Tulsa World)Injury Report; Reynold out atleast four month, Madu spained ankle: Oklahoma linebacker Ryan Reynolds is set to have surgery on the torn lateral collateral ligament in his right knee today and might be out at least four months The early diagnosis of the injury, which occurred Wednesday, was a partially torn LCL that would require only four to six weeks of rehabilitation... Norman native Mossis Madu, who has worked himself into some playing time both at running back and slot receiver for the Sooners, suffered a high left ankle sprain Monday. (From NewsOK.com)
Stoops confident in LB core: Personnel has changed. Expectations have not. "It's coming," OU coach Bob Stoops said. "The guys that have looked the best have a chance to be a really, really good group. Ryan Reynolds and Curtis Lofton inside and Demarrio Pleasant and Lewis (Baker), who's played a ton out on the perimeter, those guys are solid. "The other guys, it's just learning everything. They're getting better. Mike Reed is doing a good job, and Lamont (Robinson) is getting better. It just takes some time, takes a lot of snaps." (Tulsa World)Class of '08 Recruit Arrested: Justin Johnson, a Gilmer, Texas, running back who has verbally committed to play at Oklahoma in 2008, was one of three people who voluntarily surrendered to police last Thursday for misdemeanor criminal mischief warrants, according to a report Saturday in the Longview (Texas) News-Journal. Johnson, the No. 2-rated running back in Texas, Arsenial Richardson and Dean Griffith have confessed to spray painting various marks on at least one car Feb. 24. The investigation is ongoing and the Upshur County sheriff's office anticipates charging the multiple juvenile offenders with crimes associated with these acts. (NewsOK.com)Go Inside OU Spring Practice No. 10: SoonerSports.comSooners no longer have lone distinction: The OklahomanTable Set for Red-White event: Ada Evening NewsLabels: 2007 Storyline, Arrested, Bob Stoops, Defense, Injuries, Mossis Madu, Nic Harris, Oklahoma Sooners, Ryan Reynolds
Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes
Sooners youth highlight scrimmage: Three sophomores and a freshman accounted for the four touchdowns in the event. When it was over, OU head coach Bob Stoops, who was critical after his team's first major scrimmage, was more positive about his team. "It was better," he said. "The intensity, the effort, the enthusiasm all were really good. We've got improvement to make in clearing up some mistakes but that's why we practice." Redshirt freshman running back DeMarco Murray again practiced well. He rushed 16 times for 132 yards and one touchdown. (Stats and more at SoonerSports.com)
Wolfe playing at safety: For the third time in his four years at Oklahoma, D.J. Wolfe has landed at a new position, playing with the first-team defense at free safety in Saturday's scrimmage at Owen Field. "I'm loving it, being able to get back there and have vision of the whole field and be in the action," Wolfe said of the move to safety. "I hate to say it, but it might be better than corner." Wolfe moved to safety as the Sooners try to find a suitable backup for returning starter Darien Williams who is out for the spring after undergoing offseason knee surgery. (NewsOK.com)
Kevin Wilson on turnovers and quarterbacks: Afterward, coordinator Kevin Wilson said he sped the pace from the March 14 scrimmage, which likely contributed to the turnovers. He said coaches hadn't met to discuss the quarterbacks' progress, let alone determine any kind of pecking order, something he feels is a long way off. (Tulsa World)
All three quarterbacks have potential? According to at least one receiver, any of the three could claim the job."(All) of them have the opportunity to potentially get us where we need to go," Quentin Chaney said. "They're coming along very well. They're all pretty comfortable back there." (Norman Transcript)
Injury Report: Left guard Duke Robinson injured his shoulder in Friday's practice and was not available. Cornerback Lendy Holmes has a bruised sternum and will be held out a few days as well. Holmes, a receiver-turned-defensive back who is also talented at basketball, still managed to show off his versatility. (NewsOK.com)
OU has not shortage of talent at running back: The Oklahoman
Count on Bradford getting early call: The Oklahoman
OU Notebook: The Oklahoman
QB Bradford states his case: The Oklahoman
Defense improving in middle: The Oklahoman
Murray excels again and QBs show promise: Tulsa World
Franks impresses with interceptions: Tulsa World
OU tailbacks, QBs solid in scrimmage: Dallas Morning NewsLabels: 2007 Storyline, DJ Wolfe, Injuries, Kevin Wilson, Oklahoma Sooners, Quarterbacks, Spring Practice
Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes
Coach Stoops on practice #3: "We had a lot of good on good today," Stoops said. "I felt like we got in a lot of good work and again the enthusiasm was very good. "The offense took good care of the ball today and I was really happy to see that. Just like the day before, all three quarterbacks played extensively. At running back, Allen Patrick got several reps early, then gave way to Chris Brown, Jacob Gutierrez, Mossis Madu and DeMarco Murray, who garnered most of the snaps for the remainder of the afternoon. Both Murray and Madu also got some work in the slot and excelled in pass-catching situations. (SoonerSports.com)
Sooners out for the spring; Kelly, Williams and Walker: Along with wide receiver Malcolm Kelly and Darien Williams, offensive lineman Brandon Walker won't practice this spring. All had minor knee surgeries after last season. Tight end Jermaine Gresham and defensive end Alonzo Dotson will be limited early, before joining full workouts after spring break. Offensive lineman Branndon Braxton, who suffered a broken leg in the Colorado game, was cleared for full activity and is practicing. (NewsOK.com)
Secondary opportunities: With free safety Darien Williams skipping spring to rehab from offseason knee surgery, several young players are getting an opportunity to make an impression. Sophomore Quinton Carter gets first shot, with sophomore Brian Jackson and freshman Dominique Franks moving over from cornerback to provide depth. With the corner spots two-deep with players who have started, co-defensive coordinator Bobby Jack Wright said a move seemed logical. "We're moving those guys to help them get on the field,” Wright said. (NewsOK.com)
Younger Sooners could see more playing: The OklahomanLabels: Injuries, Oklahoma Sooners, Spring Practice
Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes Sooners' grab Big XII honors, Stoops Coach of the Year, Rufus Defense Player of the Year: Sooner coach Bob Stoops was named the Big 12 Conference’s coach of the year by both the conference’s coaches and the Associated Press. Linebacker Rufus Alexander was named the Big 12’s defensive player of the year by the coaches. Running back Adrian Peterson, offensive tackle Chris Messner and defensive ends C.J. Ah You and Larry Birdine were also first-team selections by the coaches. (The Associated Press team has yet to be released). The second-team and honorable mention selections were also loaded with Sooners. Wide receiver Malcolm Kelly, kicker Garrett Hartley and defensive backs Marcus Walker, Nic Harris and Reggie Smith were second-team selections. OU’s honorable mention selections included Steven Coleman (defensive tackle), Brody Eldridge (fullback), Joe Jon Finley (tight end), Lendy Holmes (defensive back), Zach Latimer (LB), Allen Patrick (running back), Duke Robinson (offensive line), Reggie Smith (return specialist), Paul Thompson (quarterback), Brandon Walker (offensive line) and Darien Williams (defensive back). It is the third time Stoops has received the award and the sixth time a Sooner has won offensive or defensive player of the year recognition. (Norman Transcript) Team Awards: Bob Stoops said he appreciated being selected Tuesday as the Big 12 Coach of the Year by his peers, who also named Sooners linebacker Rufus Alexander as Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year. "To me, those are team awards. I'll make it a point that our players understand that the only reason we got those is because of how hard the team has worked," Stoops said. "And I know Rufus feels the same way." (Star-Telegram) Peterson likely for Bowl Game: Bob Stoops erased any uncertainty about Adrian Peterson's availability for the Big 12 Championship Game, saying Tuesday that the star running back will not play Saturday against Nebraska but is "very likely" to play in the bowl game. Peterson has been out since breaking his collarbone on Oct. 14 against Iowa State. Stoops had said Monday that it was "unlikely" Peterson would play, but he gave a more definitive answer Tuesday at his weekly media luncheon. "He's close," Stoops said. "He could be cleared to play. "There's enough healing that, yes, he could possibly play, but there's still a chance if he fell on it wrong, took a severe hit — I don't know if they're ever totally sure will it hold up at this point. "We're not going to take that chance." Though Peterson is regarded as possibly the best running back in college football, the Sooners haven't been lacking in run production since his injury. (NewsOK.com) Coach Stoops staying put, he says: "I'm not interested in any jobs," he said. That hasn't kept writers in Alabama from throwing Stoops' name into the pool of candidates to replace recently fired Mike Shula. Or an Orlando columnist from urging Miami to pursue Stoops as the Hurricanes' next coach. Or other media from suggesting that Stoops would be interested in whatever NFL jobs open in the coming weeks. "That's amazing," Stoops said. "Every coach, they find out through all of you guys (the media) they're a candidate. No one ever knows. Whoever has a winning record, oh, he's a candidate. It's silly the way it all works." (Tulsa World) Weather in the forecast for the Sooners: With forecasts calling for temperatures in the 20s Saturday in Kansas City, Mo., Bob Stoops faces the task of preparing his team to play in such weather. "We could ride up to Minnesota and have some practices I guess," Stoops said Tuesday. "(The weather is) not gonna matter. I think, more than anything, wind matters in games more than cold does." The wind is not expected to be blowing significantly Saturday. Thompson said he has never played in a game where the temperature was below 20. "If it's 17 degrees, I'm in bed somewhere," he said. (NewsOK.com) Williams to return after injury: Stoops said free safety Darien Williams will return Saturday night after missing the OSU game with a knee injury. That will allow Nic Harris to move back to his nickel safety / linebacker position. (Tulsa World) Venables Broyles Award Finalist: Oklahoma associate head coach Brent Venables has been named as one of five finalists for the 11th Frank Broyles Award. The honor is presented annually to the top assistant coach in college football. Venables, who also is defensive coordinator and linebackers coach for the Sooners, is in his eighth season at OU. The other finalists are Ohio State passing game coordinator and quarterbacks coach Joe Daniels; Virginia Tech defensive coordinator and inside linebackers coach Bud Foster; Arkansas defensive coordinator Reggie Herring and Louisville offensive coordinator Paul Petrino. The winner of the 2006 Broyles Award will be announced Tuesday, Jan. 16, in Little Rock, Ark., at a banquet presented by The Rotary Club of Little Rock. (SoonerSports PR) 'No excuses' works for Sooners: The Oklahoman OU has done just fine without its starting RB: The Oklahoman Alexander takes pride in defensive performance: The Oklahoman Peterson out: Norman Transcript Stoops, Alexander Big 12's best: Norman Transcript It should be cold at Arrowhead: Norman Transcript Stoops is top coach in Big 12: Tulsa World Gundy has seen both teams, and he likes Sooners: Tulsa World Peterson out for Big 12 title game: Tulsa World Huskers 'D' fierce: Tulsa World Memorable moments -- OU versus Nebraska: Tulsa World OU's Peterson won't play in Big 12 title game: Dallas Morning News Sooners' defense gets act together: Ft. Worth Star-Telegram Huskers counting on run defense: Kansas City Star Another back carries Sooners: Kansas City Star Nebraska focuses on tackling OU's backs: Lincoln Journal-Star Thompson helps OU reach its goals: Lincoln Journal-Star Taylor happy to be playing Sooners: Lincoln Journal-Star Sooners in the Pros -- Week 12: SoonerSports.com Labels: Adrian Peterson, Award, Bob Stoops, Bowl Game, Brent Venables, Darien Williams, Injuries, Oklahoma Sooners, Rufus Alexander
Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes
Peterson out for Big XII Title game: No. 8 Oklahoma will be without star tailback Adrian Peterson when it faces No. 19 Nebraska in the Big 12 championship game Saturday. Peterson, the 2004 Heisman runner-up, has missed six weeks after breaking his collarbone Oct. 14 on a touchdown run against Iowa State. "Adrian is not going to play," Sooners coach Bob Stoops said Tuesday at his weekly news conference. "Without being too technical, he's close. He could be cleared to play, but each week that passes the likelihood of it reoccurring is less and less." Peterson, the nation's No. 2 rusher at the time of his injury, initially was expected to miss six weeks. "There's enough healing that, yes, he could possibly play," Stoops said. "But there's still a chance if he fell on it wrong or took a severe hit -- I don't know if they're ever totally sure will it hold up at this point? We're not going to take that chance." Oklahoma (10-2, 7-1 Big 12) has won all six of its games without Peterson, who set an NCAA freshman record in 2004 with 1,925 yards rushing. He had 935 yards and 10 touchdowns in six games this season and is 150 yards shy of Oklahoma's career rushing record, held by 1978 Heisman Trophy winner Billy Sims. (NBC Sports)Labels: Adrian Peterson, Big XII, Injuries
Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and NotesAD out for Bedlam 2006: Adrian Peterson won't play Saturday against Oklahoma State, Allen Patrick might and freshman Chris Brown is ready no matter what as No. 14 Oklahoma prepares for its regular-season finale. Coach Bob Stoops said Peterson, a junior who is 150 yards shy of the school's all-time rushing record, hasn't shown enough progress from a broken collarbone suffered Oct. 14. "The scan showed that he wasn't completely healed, so they're [the doctors] not going to release him yet," Stoops said after Monday's practice. After Peterson suffered the injury, doctors said the recovery would take about six weeks. This would be the sixth week. It's unclear whether Peterson would play in the Big 12 championship game if the Sooners get there. Peterson still hopes to return for OU's bowl. (Dallas Morning News)Sooners Status: After announcing Monday morning that Adrian Peterson will not play Saturday against Oklahoma State, the Sooners got just a little good news later in the day when running back Allen Patrick, wide receiver Manuel Johnson and free safety Darien Williams returned to the field in limited action. OU coach Bob Stoops said Patrick "was better," Johnson "did some things" and Williams "did a little bit." Receivers coach Kevin Sumlin said Johnson -- out last week after getting knocked unconscious the week before against Texas Tech -- practiced without contact in shorts and shoulder pads and a helmet. "But he went through everything we did today, routes and working on our game plan for Saturday, putting that in," Sumlin said. "He looks quick and he looks fast. "We're going out and proceeding just like normal. He was in the huddle today with the ones, the huddle broke and we threw him a couple of balls. So as of right now, I don't see that there's going to be any issue with that." (Tulsa World)Sooners take home pair of Big 12 weekly honors: Oklahoma players took two of the three Big 12 weekly football honors for their play in last Saturday's 36-10 win at Baylor. Safety Reggie Smith was named the defensive player of the week, while kick returner Juaquin Iglesias won the special teams honor. Smith, a sophomore from Edmond, Okla., had two interceptions with 94 yards in returns. His first went for 42 yards and a touchdown, while his second covered 52 yards and set up the Sooner offense at the Baylor 18. Four plays later, OU punched in another touchdown. Smith also broke up three passes and registered two tackles in the game. Iglesias, a sophomore from Killeen, Texas, had two returns for 111 yards, including an 88-yarder for a touchdown on a Baylor free kick. It was the first kickoff return, as free kicks are categorized, for a touchdown by a Sooner player since Mark Bradley went for 100 yards against Iowa State in 2004. Kansas running back Jon Cornish was the Big 12 Offensive Player of the Week. The Jayhawks downed in-state rival Kansas State. (SoonerSports PR)
Peterson not ready: Norman Transcript
Peterson out, but Sooners confident in backups: Tulsa World
OSU doesn't expect to draw first sellout crowd Saturday: Tulsa World
Outside impact has huge role: Tulsa World
Collarbone injury keeps Peterson out against OSU: The Oklahoman
OU running game remains in high gear: The Oklahoman
OU Notebook: The Oklahoman
Prices block Bedlam sellout: The Oklahoman
Fuel for the Bedlam fire: The Oklahoman
Peterson or no Peterson, stopping the run critical for Cowboys' defense: The Oklahoman
Brotherly reunion continues in Bedlam: The Oklahoman
Sooners' Stoops is Big 12's coach of the year, but UT's Brown not far behind: Austin American-StatesmanLabels: Adrian Peterson, Bedlam, Big XII, Injuries, Oklahoma Sooners
Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes
Same Scheme, Different Team: Baylor has made no secret of the fact that they copied Texas Tech's wide-open offense. The only differences, says OU coach Bob Stoops, are in the play-calling. "Some of the plays (Baylor) likes to emphasize is a coach's personality or who is calling the play," Stoops said. "There are a few differences that way. There's still plays that work for both teams. There are certain routes that Baylor might like more than (Texas Tech) has." For OU secondary coach Bobby Jack Wright, playing Texas Tech and Baylor back-to-back made for an easy week of coaching. "(Baylor has) the same schemes, same type of routes, same type of personnel combinations," Wright said. (NewsOK.com)Patrick Status Uncertain: Oklahoma coach Bob Stoops said Wednesday night in his final communication of the week with media that he still didn't know if running back Allen Patrick would be able to play Saturday against Baylor. Patrick, who took over the starting running back chores after Adrian Peterson suffered a broken collarbone, has been nursing an injured ankle and missed last week's game against Texas Tech. Stoops said Patrick is improving. "We're trying to work him up to the mode he'll (be able to play)," he said. "He's getting better and improving all the time." Stoops said ankle injuries are difficult to gauge, recalling how Peterson dealt with a similar injury last season. (Norman Transcript)M. Walker on roommate Peterson: No one knows more about Adrian Peterson's possible return next week than his roommate, cornerback Marcus Walker. And Walker says he still doesn't know. "He's still working out," Walker said. "I think he works out like four or five times a week, lifting and doing what he needs to do to be ready to play once his shoulder's healed. Whenever they clear him to play, he'll still be the same old Adrian Peterson. Probably still run for 200 yards. So, ain't nothing changed." (Tulsa World)Freshman latest running back to answer call for Sooners: The Oklahoman
OU's Thompson making most of his last chance: Waco Tribune
Saturday's Oklahoma vs. Baylor Matchups: Waco Tribune
Baylor seniors came close, and yet so far: Waco TribuneSooners Thinking Big Heading Into Baylor: KXII.comSooners still have Big 12 chance: The Sporting NewsLabels: Adrian Peterson, Allen Patrick, Baylor, Injuries, Marcus Walker
Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes
Allen Patrick practices limited: Junior Allen Patrick, is still recovering from a sprained ankle. Patrick sat out of last Saturday's 34-24 victory over Texas Tech. Stoops said Patrick practiced in a limited capacity Monday and the injury has improved from where it was last week. "He did a little bit, but not a lot," he said. "He's better, better than he was Friday." But there was no indication given about Patrick's availability for the Baylor game. (Norman Transcript)No Future Information on Peterson: Stoops said there was no update on the status of tailback Adrian Peterson, who has missed four games with a broken collarbone. "He's not playing this week," Stoops said. "Next week if you want to talk about it, we'll talk about it. There's nothing else." (Dallas Morning News)More on Manuel Johnson: OU receiver Manuel Johnson was released from the hospital and attended team meetings Monday, according to Sooners co-offensive coordinator Kevin Sumlin. Johnson was knocked unconscious and experienced temporary numbness after a helmet-to-helmet hit last Saturday night. He spent the night at OU Medical Center. Stoops said Johnson is scheduled to begin some weight-lifting and running later this week, but he won't play Saturday at Baylor. (NewsOK.com)Offense preps for trip to Waco: SoonerSports.com
Eye on the opponent -- Baylor: SoonerSports.com
Sooners Talk Baylor Game with Media: SoonerSports.com
Wrestling stars support Sooners: Norman TranscriptOU's food drive a big success: The Oklahoma
OU Notebook -- Aching news: Tulsa World
Sittler's Big 12 Rankings: Tulsa World
Pollsters struggle with where Sooners rank: Tulsa World
New Baylor QB may need to make more reads: Dallas Morning News
Something's got to change for Morriss: Waco Tribune
Labels: Adrian Peterson, Allen Patrick, Injuries, Injury, Manuel Johnson
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