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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Alexander named First Team All-American: Wednesday, a day after being named Big 12 Conference Defensive Player of the Year, Alexander was named first-team All-American by the American Football Coaches Association. He's the 142nd All-American in OU's history. With early issues at cornerback and defensive tackle, the Sooners didn't blitz as much defensively this season, so Alexander didn't have as many game-changing plays as he did in his previous two seasons. But he still led the team with 95 tackles going into Saturday's Big 12 championship game against Nebraska, and posted a team-high 10.5 tackles for loss. He also had a hand in six turnovers and had two quarterback sacks. "Usually, these awards go to teams that have won a lot of games," OU coach Bob Stoops said Tuesday. "We're No. 1 or No. 2 (in the Big 12) in almost all defensive categories, so I'm sure that Rufus, one of our better players, I think he reaps the rewards from the sum of everybody." (Tulsa World)

Its Cotton or Fiesta for Sooners: It's the Fiesta or Cotton Bowl for Oklahoma depending on the outcome of Saturday's title game. The Big 12 Conference announced two bowl matchups on Wednesday. The AT&T Cotton Bowl indicated its desire to host one of the Conference’s divisional champions and will select the runner-up of Saturday’s Dr Pepper Big 12 Championship game to face an SEC opponent on January 1. The Pacific Life Holiday Bowl will match Texas A&M against the University of California on December 28. The winner of the Dr Pepper Big 12 Championship game automatically qualifies for the Bowl Championship Series, and will appear in the Tostitos Fiesta Bowl on January 1. (SoonerSports.com)

Cooper's Nebraska history: Sooner center Jon Cooper's dad, Tom Cooper, played at Missouri from 1972-75, experiencing his own rivalry with Nebraska. Growing up in Colorado, where CU is a latter-day rival of the Big Red, imposed a double dose of dislike for all things Husker on the OU sophomore. "I've kind of grown up hating Nebraska my fair share," Cooper said. "It's a pretty big deal for me." For Cooper, this week is somewhat like OU-Texas for his teammates. "A little bit, yeah," Cooper said. "My dad hated them, so he passed that on to me. And everybody from CU hated them, so I was surrounded, because nobody liked them in Colorado, certainly not in my house." "I definitely respect them, because they've won championships. Oklahoma's won championships. When I was recruited, my dad made sure to tell me how much of a good rivalry this is, especially back when they played every year." (NewsOK.com)

Stoops indifferent on Big XII title site: The forecast for Kansas City on Saturday night calls for below-freezing temperatures, making weather a factor. That could be avoided if the game were played in a domed stadium or warmer climate. "I'm kind of mixed on that," Stoops said. "You see pro teams out there in the middle of that weather all the time. It's part of the game you've got to manage. "Some of these (alternative championship venues) aren't really Big 12 towns, aren't maybe as exciting, so the atmosphere isn't going to be as great. I think the venue up there has been incredibly exciting." (Tulsa World)

Alexander named Big 12's top defender: Norman Transcript

Sooners' bowl choices down to two: Norman Transcript

Latimer recalls Cornhuskers' big rivalry — with Colorado: The Oklahoman

It's BCS or Cotton for Sooners: The Oklahoman

Taylor story is familiar: The Oklahoman

Reggie-go-round: Tulsa World

Blake connects to recruits: Tulsa World

Memorable moments -- OU vs. Nebraska: Tulsa World

Memorable moments -- OU versus Nebraska: Tulsa World

Sooners' bowl options limited: Tulsa World

Weather is a factor in title game: Tulsa World

Sooners QB now has believers: Dallas Morning News

Cotton Bowl will host Big 12 runner up: Dallas Morning News

Huskers golden in red zone: Lincoln Journal-Star

Breaking down the Sooners: Lincoln Journal-Star

Elmassian says Oklahoma offense 'tenacious': Lincoln Journal-Star

Huskers QB points to younger sisiter to keep him grounded: Ft. Worth Star-Telegram

Big 12 on hold by Gator: Ft. Worth Star-Telegram

Coach has Huskers back on top: Kansas City Star

Sooners have few weaknesses: Columbus Telegram

Sooners' Patrick, Brown show there's not reason for Peterson to rush return: San Antonio Express-News

Title game revives Sooners-Huskers rivalry: Yahoo! Sports

Fan primer for Big 12 Championship: SoonerSports.com

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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

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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)

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Peterson Close, but highly unlikely: Oklahoma coach Bob Stoops said Adrian Peterson's availability for Saturday's Big 12 championship game was "highly unlikely" but evaded further questions about the running back's health. Asked following Monday's practice if he had an update on Peterson's status, Stoops said, "Uh, no. Not definitive, but right now, highly unlikely. We're not anticipating that." Asked if Peterson had an X-ray or bone scan Monday, Stoops said, "I'm not getting into all of that." Asked if Peterson's participation against Nebraska was still a possibility or had been ruled out, Stoops said, "Next question." (Tulsa World)

Bob Stoops named Eddie Robinson finalist Coach of the Year: Oklahoma head coach Bob Stoops is one of nine finalists for the Eddie Robinson Coach of the Year Award. The honor is voted on annually by the Football Writers Association of America. Other finalists include Arkansas' Houston Nutt, Rutgers' Greg Schiano, Wake Forest's Jim Grobe, Houston's Art Briles, Hawaii's June Jones, Michigan's Lloyd Carr, BYU's Bronco Mendenhall and Boise State's Chris Petersen. The finalists will be placed on a ballot which will be sent out to the entire FWAA membership by e-mail. FWAA members will be asked to vote for their top three choices in the order they are deserving. The FWAA Coaching Award is named after Robinson, a coaching legend at Grambling State University for 55 years. He has more Division I victories (408) than any other coach. The winner of the FWAA/Eddie Robinson Coach of the Year Award will be announced and honored at a reception on Jan. 5 in Glendale, Ariz., in conjunction with the BCS 1-2 game. Stoops' Sooners, who won seven straight to nab the Big 12 South Division title, will be playing in the Big 12 title game against Nebraska despite losing their starting quarterback and top running back during the course of the season. (SoonerSports PR)

Kelly keeps his cool despite few passes: [Oklahoma, WR., Malcolm] Kelly was a frustrated wide receiver when he met the media two days after the A&M game. However, that was not the case Monday evening when he was asked about the single catch in Stillwater. "During the O-State game one of our coaches came up to me and told me to keep my composure or whatever," Kelly said. "I was like, 'Man, I'm not worried about it. I'm trying to play next Saturday (in the Big 12 championship game).' "However we've got to take it, we're winning games. We're overcoming what everybody thought." (Tulsa World)

A lil' Oklahoma history: Cornhuskers quarterback Zac Taylor grew up in Norman, the son of former Sooner defensive back Sherwood Taylor.So he understands the history of OU-Nebraska. "The games I remember more than anything else were the OU-Nebraska games when I was a little kid," Taylor said. "Those are the most vivid memories I have. "Back then, I was an Oklahoma fan cheering against Nebraska. Now it's the other way around." (NewsOK.com)

Big XII Championship tickers SOLD-OUT: If you want to go to Saturday's Big 12 championship but don't already have tickets, your best bet might be eBay. Oklahoma sold out its allotment of approximately 8,500 tickets early Monday, just as Nebraska had done several days earlier after the Huskers qualified for the championship by winning the Big 12 North. The Big 12 was allotted approximately 2,000 tickets, leaving in the neighborhood of 60,000 tickets available for the general public. By 4 p.m. Monday, a Ticketmaster representative said the only seats available were in wheelchair sections. (Tulsa World)

Sooners conditioning for Big XII Title game: OU offensive line coach James Patton is well aware of the weekend weather predictions. The low temperature is projected to be 21 degrees in Kansas City, which could make for a low scoring, grind-it-out affair. "That is a lineman's night," Patton said. "There's no reason to be tired or sweating a lot after a drive." (Dallas Morning News)

With Taylor's leadership, Huskers finally balanced: Norman Transcript

Callahan puts new face on storied program: Tulsa World

Stoops never lowered his expectations: Tulsa World

Stoops deserves consideration: Tulsa World

Sooners are the home team, but Nebraska will have the most fans: The Oklahoman

OU Football -- On the road: The Oklahoman

This year's Bedlam a joy to watch: The Oklahoman

Fans, travel agents scramble to find ways to game: The Oklahoman

Together, OU coach and defender stand: Kansas City Star

Sooners, Huskers both had to repair key parts: Kansas City Star

OU runs well without rushing Peterson: Dallas Morning News

Peterson not ruled out, but likely won't play: Ft. Worth Star-Telegram

OU overcomes hurdles to win South: Lincoln Journal Star

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Stoops excited about meaningful game: OU coach Bob Stoops said Sunday he was excited to again be playing in a game with so much riding on the outcome. After being in the hunt for Big 12 and national championships every season from 2000-2004, the Sooners weren't in any of those discussions during an 8-4 campaign a year ago. It appeared they would be left out again this year, until Texas A&M upset Texas on Friday. "It was exciting to me Friday when that happened to again be in a game that meant so much," Stoops said. "It's exciting to be in it, where you have so much at stake." (NewsOK.com)

Williams earns praises: Freshman right tackle Trent Williams, who made his fifth straight start in place of injured Branndon Braxton, earned praise from Stoops. "He has played great the whole year. I mean, it's been really good," Stoops said. "It is very unusual, the strength and ability at that age to play like he has. . ." Two of Williams' best lead blocks came on touchdown drives. (Tulsa World)

Announcement on Peterson's Big XII status today? Oklahoma coach Bob Stoops likely will make an announcement on Peterson's condition sometime today, just as he did last week. When he addressed the media Sunday afternoon, Stoops said he had not yet spoken with the team doctors and did not know when they planned to perform a bone scan on Peterson's injured collarbone to determine whether he could play. (NewsOK.com)

Boise State likely opponent, if Sooners Win Saturday Night: Sooner fans might want to hold off on those reservations to Glendale. Oklahoma must first beat Nebraska this Saturday in the Big 12 championship before accepting the league's berth into the Bowl Championship Series and its "home" bowl, the Fiesta Bowl, in Glendale, Ariz., on Jan. 1. Most projections have the Big 12 winner playing Boise State in the Fiesta Bowl. But even if the Sooners did win the Big 12, there is a slim chance their destination might not be the desert. "(OU-Boise State) is what a lot of people are saying," said Big 12 associate commissioner Bob Burda, "but until they get on their conference calls and make their picks, we won't know. We've been surprised before." (Tulsa World)

OU-Nebraska for Big 12 Championship: SoonerSports.com

Perseverance pays: Tulsa World

OU dreams not too hard: Tulsa World

Sooners who we thought they'd be: The Oklahoman

Stoops' strategy was effective: The Oklahoman

Norman native carries Cornhuskers into title game: The Oklahoman

About Nebraska: The Oklahoman

Pumped up: Norman Transcript

Replacements just fine with OU: Ft. Worth Star-Telegram

Sooners' defense has three little words: Dallas Morning News

Win over Nebraska could land Sooners in BCS' Fiesta Bowl: Dallas Morning News

NU ready to step up in class: Lincoln Journal-Star

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Oklahoma's Patrick runs past O-State: After a costly controversy and a Red River loss, Oklahoma seemed to be down and out. But look at the Sooners now, back on top and playing for a berth in the BCS. Allen Patrick ran for 163 yards and a touchdown to help No. 13 Oklahoma survive another Bedlam scare and win the Big 12 South title with a 27-21 win against Oklahoma State on Saturday. The Sooners' run to the title started immediately after a loss to Texas in October, and six of the team's seven straight wins have come without star tailback Adrian Peterson. "We've overcome a lot, but we knew we could get here," quarterback Paul Thompson said. "We knew we had the guys, the personnel to get here, especially after the changes we made and we saw what we had in our replacements. ... We never gave up hope of getting here, and now we're here." (ESPN.com - Stats)

Peterson unlikely for Big XII title game: The 23rd-ranked Huskers (9-3) clinched the Big 12 North title two weeks ago. The 13th-ranked Sooners (10-2) needed some help. But after Texas A&M upset Texas on Friday, all OU had to do was beat Oklahoma State on Saturday. The Sooners won, 27-21. OU coach Bob Stoops said it's unlikely running back Adrian Peterson (broken collarbone) will play. "They'll have to do the bone scan again and assess what they feel, whether it's OK for him or not," Stoops said. "I would say it's doubtful. That would be my feeling today. Now, that may change." (Dallas Morning News)

Sooners atop NCAA in 10- win seasons: With its 27-21 victory over Oklahoma State Saturday, Oklahoma became the nation's leader in 10-win seasons with 29. Prior to Saturday, the Sooners were tied with Alabama. The Sooners have six 10-win seasons in eight years under coach Bob Stoops. Barry Switzer won 10 games 10 times in 16 years. (NewsOK.com)

Hartley rare miss: Hartley's missed extra point in the second quarter marked his first miss in 41 attempts this season (ended game with 43 season attempts) and only his second in 94 career attempts. (Sooner Sports Statistics)

Sooners watching Texas: Bob Stoops says he didn't watch a lot of Texas A&M's 12-7 victory over Texas on Friday. Quite the contrary, in fact. "I was out in the yard shooting baskets with my children," Stoops said. That's certainly a better post-Thanksgiving activity than biting nails, sweating bullets and crying, "Gig em!" But when your team's future rides on whether the Aggies can beat the Longhorns for the first time in a long time. . . . "Yeah, we watched it," said OU defensive end Alonzo Dotson. "It was exciting." (Tulsa World)

Patrick's rushes for longest run of '06: Patrick's 65-yard TD run, a career high, on the first play from scrimmage in the third quarter marked the longest run by any Sooner this season. It is the longest rush since Adrian Peterson’s 84-yard TD run against Oklahoma State in 2005. (Sooner Sports Statistics)

Big XII Championship tickets: The University of Oklahoma Athletics Ticket Office has tickets available for the 2006 Dr Pepper Big 12 Football Championship Game scheduled for Saturday, Dec. 2 at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Mo. The Sooners will take on the Nebraska Cornhuskers in a 7 p.m., kickoff. Tickets are $70 each. The ticket office will be open to take calls from season ticket holders from 1-5 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 26th and from 8-10 a.m. on Monday, Nov. 27. If tickets still remain, they will be available to the general public beginning at 10 a.m., Monday. Tickets may be purchased by calling the OU Athletics Ticket Office at 405-325-2424 or 800-456-GoOU. All orders will be shipped overnight via UPS. (SoonerSports PR)

Sooners beat Pokes for Big 12 South: SoonerSports.com

OU-OSU Notes: SoonerSports.com

Big 12 Championship Ticket Info: SoonerSports.com

K.C. bound: Norman Transcript

Sooners win in fitting fashion: Norman Transcript

Ground control: Norman Transcript

Defense holds strong: Norman Transcript

OU to play for Big 12 title: Tulsa World

Sooners have a fighter in Stoops: Tulsa World

Two minute drill: Tulsa World

Bedlam in pictures: Tulsa World

Bowman, Woods wonder what if: Tulsa World

OSU's Reid out in crunch time: Tulsa World

Last drive a Cowboys cliffhanger: Tulsa World

Patrick trades in pain for gains: Tulsa World

Goal-line stand stood out: Tulsa World

Peterson's status for Big 12 championship unclear: Tulsa World

Defense deflects Cowboys' final charge: Tulsa World

Sooners outlast Cowboys in Bedlam thriller: The Oklahoman

Gritty Sooners next foe is a familiar one: The Oklahoman

An estimated 7,500 Sooner boosters leave happy: The Oklahoman

Iglesias overcomes earlier problems, comes up with nifty catch: The Oklahoman

OU controls own destiny: The Oklahoman

Cowboys' QB shuffle leaves some questions: The Oklahoman

Great drama ends in OU's favor: The Oklahoman

OU plan wasn't to ignore passing game: The Oklahoman

Stock Report: The Oklahoman

OU Game Balls: The Oklahoman

Bedlam tidbits: The Oklahoman

OU survives Bedlam, takes South: Dallas Morning News

Ankle doesn't slow OU's Patrick: Dallas Morning News

OU rises in South: Ft. Worth Star-Telegram

'Huskers could muddy picture: Ft. Worth Star-Telegram

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

OSU Fans on top of the action: Oklahoma linebacker Rufus Alexander isn't necessarily looking forward to playing at Boone Pickens Stadium Saturday. "The fans are just right there on top of you. That's the only thing I don't like about it," he said. "That's the hard part, communicating with the coaches. They're just right there. Then once you make a mistake, they're right there again. "That's what you call a homefield advantage." Alexander isn't the only Sooner to notice. "At larger arenas, with fans away from you, you might hear them," offensive coordinator Kevin Wilson said, "but you don't get the personal interaction. "My two trips up there, it's been a pretty unique, special place. Their fans are passionate for their team and the rivalry. I think their team feeds off that." (Tulsa World)

Stoops on Bedlam Rival: Given how hard the Cowboys play OU every year, it seemed fair to ask Stoops last week if he sensed Bedlam was more important to them than the Sooners. "I can't speak for them. Why would I try?" Stoops responded. "It's a big game for us. Which game is bigger? We've got a bunch of rivalries, right? We've got Texas, we've got Nebraska, we've got Oklahoma State. Heck, when we play K-State, everybody talks about that for the longest time. "It's like every game we've got is a rivalry. Texas A&M, they can't wait to play us down there. I don't know how to qualify it. "It's a big game, so here we go again. But in the big picture, wasn't last week?" (Tulsa World)

If they win today, OU can become champs again: The Oklahoman

More than bragging rights on the line: The Oklahoman

The Stakes: The Oklahoman

Reid the center of today's Bedlam buzz: The Oklahoman

Bedlam Story Lines: The Oklahoman

15 Cowboys say goodbye in last home game: The Oklahoman

Resilient Sooners can win Big 12 South on Saturday: Tulsa World

Victory would strengthen Cowboys' bowl chances: Tulsa World

To beat OU, Cowboys must have confidence: Tulsa World

OSU Notebook -- Senior finale: Tulsa World

OU can capture Big 12 South today: Dallas Morning News

Preview -- Oklahoma at Oklahoma State: Dallas Morning News

Oklahoma gives thanks to A&M: Ft. Worth Star-Telegram

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Texas loss helps the Sooners in Big XII South race: Entering Friday's game against No. 11 Texas, Franchione was 2-10 in November, including a combined 0-5 this season and last. As if that record were not bad enough, he never had beaten the Longhorns in the rivalry known as the Lone Star Showdown.That changed Friday when Stephen McGee, Texas A&M's sophomore quarterback, crashed into the end zone with less than three minutes left on an 8-yard run to shock Texas, 12-7, before 89,102 fans.The victory in the 113th game between the two universities snapped Texas A&M's six-game losing streak to the Longhorns. It was also the Aggies' first victory here since 1994. Texas (9-3, 6-2 Big 12) has now lost consecutive games for the first time since 1999."It's good to get everybody to shut up about Coach Fran and start realizing that he's doing a great job," said McGee, who rushed for 95 yards and passed for 58 yards.Had Texas won Friday, it would have clinched the Big 12 South Division title. The Longhorns now need Oklahoma (9-2, 6-1) to lose Saturday to Oklahoma State (6-5, 3-4) to meet Nebraska on Dec. 2 for the Big 12 championship. Otherwise, the Sooners will win the division and play the Cornhuskers. (New York Times)

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Oklahoma State Bedlam tickets costly: Tickets for Saturday's game have been available throughout the week, rare for any major Bedlam event. But at $250, $300 and $600 a ticket, both OU and OSU fans are balking. Stoops jokingly encouraged fans in crimson to grab all available seats. "Hopefully some of those OU people buy the extra ones," Stoops said. "Get as many there as we can, right. Get more red in there if we're able to." (NewsOK.com)

Only Pokes can ruin season: Norman Transcript

A Bedlam frame of mind: Norman Transcript

Rooting for Aggies, working on Pokes: Norman Transcript

No one's sure why Stoops' Sooners struggle in Stillwater: The Oklahoman

Fans recognize series' uniqueness, but OU supporters focus hate on 'Horns: The Oklahoman

Bedlam — Last five in Stillwater: The Oklahoman

The famous and the infamous: The Oklahoman

The two sides of Bedlam: The Oklahoman

Why OU could win: The Oklahoman

Why OSU could win: The Oklahoman

Bedlam has drama — in Stillwater: The Oklahoman

Kind act goes beyond rivalry: Tulsa World

Sooners see bits of 'Horns in Cowboys: Tulsa World

OU Notebook -- Kid stuff: Tulsa World

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Pendleton Story: Checkout a great story on Oklahoma's defensive tackle Carl Pendleton, his cousin Kierston in Today's Dallas Morning News.

No eyes on Texas, OU says: "We have a lot of pride in finishing the year strong," Stoops said. "That's all that should matter to us. "All we can control is getting ourselves ready to play the best game we can." Sophomore linebacker Curtis Lofton said he'll likely just wait to find out who won rather than watch the game on TV. "I won't be an A&M cheerleader," Lofton said. "Of course, I want them to win and if they do, that's great, but I won't be sitting there cheering or anything." (NewsOK.com)

PAC-10 official Riese speaks: Two months after the Oregon instant replay fiasco, he is answering the phone again. Irate Sooner fans ring him up just two or three times a week now. The death threats have stopped. The healing has begun. "It will never leave me," Gordon Riese says. "Until I die." On a day we set aside to count our blessings, some fans will no doubt continue cursing Riese, who was in charge of the botched review that cost Oklahoma victory on that September afternoon at Autzen Stadium. The Sooners have rebounded nicely from the stunning setback. But a 9-2 record should have been 10-1. Many fans see the current BCS picture and wonder, despite a loss to Texas, if OU wouldn't be at least on the fringe of the national title conversation. Who knows? But fans know why the Sooners are not. Riese does, too. "Everybody knows," he says. You remember how it went. OU ahead by six points, 72 seconds left, an onside kick, a collision. You saw Allen Patrick emerge with the football. You saw officials huddle. You watched countless replays. Stunned, you saw Oregon given the ball. You saw the Ducks score, and win. "This was the easiest call to make, if I'd have gotten the (correct) replay," Riese says. "It would have been the right call. It would have been the correct call. The Oregon kid touched the ball at the 44-yard line." But wait. It gets worse. From that end-zone shot, Riese couldn't answer the question he was asked. But he could tell Oregon didn't have the football. "I saw the ball laying on the ground, the Oklahoma kid picks the ball up with his knee on the ground," Riese says. "I knew it was Oklahoma ball." But here's the thing: By rule, Riese wasn't allowed to determine possession. Not after the officials had already given the ball to Oregon. (In Part, more at NewsOK.com)

Thompson OU's calming influence: Norman Transcript

Dinner, as well as a rivalry, is served: Ft. Worth Star-Telegram

A Sooner Thanksgiving: The Oklahoman

Replay official says he knew Sooners recovered kick: The Oklahoman

OU-Nebraska forever?: The Oklahoman

OU football notebook: The Oklahoman

Pondering the possibilities of a Stoops bowl: The Oklahoman

Thompson looks to keep OU rolling: Tulsa World

'Mess' grows up: Tulsa World

No hard feelings between Gundy brothers: Tulsa World

Bowl destinations make Bedlam more intriguing: Tulsa World

Fans gone wild -- Bedlam messages: Tulsa World

Bedlam memories -- Questions with Pat Jones: Tulsa World

Bedlam memories -- Questions with Barry Switzer: Tulsa World

Reid trying to join short list of Cowboy QBs to beat OU: Tulsa World

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Bob Stoops Website in the works: Asked on Tuesday if he had thought about launching his own Web site -- www.BobStoops.com -- the Oklahoma head football coach's response drew uncontrolled laughter. "What do you do with it?" he asked the questioner. Then, Stoops revealed the truth. "Yeah," he said, "I'm working on one. I think." The OU Internet Technology department is developing a site that will be devoted strictly to Sooner football, particularly recruiting. The name is still fluid, as is the content and presentation, but BobStoops.com is a strong possibility. "From what I understand," Stoops said, "somebody's working on one for me, I think." Actually, said associate athletic director for media relations Kenny Mossman, Stoops was the driving force behind the idea. "He sought us out and asked us to work on that project. He's definitely interested in it," Mossman said. "He sees a tremendous value in it. He's personally not very Web-savvy, but he understands the value of it." Mossman said the site will be housed within the athletic department's address -- www.SoonerSports.com (More at Tulsa World)

Oklahoma's Hartley Groza Finalist: Oklahoma kicker Garrett Hartley has been named one of three finalists for the Lou Groza Award, which is presented annually to the top kicker in college football. The Palm Beach County Sports Institute and Palm Beach County Sports Commission made the announcement Tuesday. The award is presented by the FedEx Orange Bowl. The other finalists are John Vaughn of Auburn and Arthur Carmody of Louisville. Hartley has connected on 17 of 18 field goals this season. His only miss on the year came on a blocked 44-yard field goal against Oregon. Hartley currently ranks No. 2 among all players in the Big 12 Conference with 8.2 points per game. The junior place-kicker’s season long is a 46-yard field goal against Iowa State. Hartley has also remained perfect this season in extra point attempts going 39-of-39. Twice this year Hartley was named a Lou Groza Collegiate Place-Kicker Award Star of the Week. (SoonerSports PR)

Aggie win, OU win over O-State equals incentives: Stoops has thousands of reasons to pull for the Aggies – approximately $230,000 worth of reasons. That's how much money Stoops could make in contract incentives if his Sooners get into the Big 12 championship game. According to the contract, Stoops would earn $60,000 just for playing in the Big 12 title game or $80,000 if OU wins it. Then, Stoops would make an additional $100,000 for participating in one of the four BCS bowls. He'll also earn $50,000 if OU finishes in the top 20 of the BCS standings, which is possible now, or $75,000 for landing in the top 10. (Dallas Morning News)

Williams Questionable: Free safety Darien Williams is, in secondary coach Bobby Jack Wright's estimation, 70 percent after injuring a knee last week at Baylor. Asked after practice Tuesday if he thought he'd play at Oklahoma State Saturday, Williams said: "Probably. I don't know for sure, but I'm leaning that way." Wright said if Williams can't go, nickel back Nic Harris would replace him in the Sooners' 4-3 base defense. Harris would return to the nickel safety / linebacker position in OU's five-defensive back set, with Jason Carter joining Reggie Smith at safety. (Tulsa World)

Stoops expects Peterson to Return: Will Adrian Peterson ever play again in crimson and cream? Oklahoma coach Bob Stoops sounded like a believer Tuesday. "I'm pretty convinced of that," Stoops said. "Things may change, but at this point it hasn't for him." Peterson was hopeful to return from a broken collarbone in time to play in Saturday's Bedlam game. That possibility was ruled out after a bone scan done Monday. Stoops said he was uncertain whether Peterson might make it back should the Sooners make the Big 12 title game Dec. 2. Peterson's father, Nelson Peterson, said Monday that his son still wanted to play for OU in a bowl game. As for the long layoff — the injury occurred Oct. 14 and a late-December or early January bowl is expected for the Sooners — Stoops said it's no concern. "He's out there running and doing things, training," Stoops said. "He's in shape. (NewsOK.com)
OU Scholars: Fullback Dane Zaslaw, defensive tackle Carl Pendleton and defensive end Larry Birdine represent OU on the Academic All-Big 12 first team released Tuesday. Lofton and running back Jacob Gutierrez made the second team. (Tulsa World)

Is Stoops feeling the Bedlam?: Norman Transcript

Williams uncertain for Saturday: Norman Transcript

OU secondary puzzle complete: The Oklahoman

OU secondary -- The pieces of the puzzle: The Oklahoman

OSU's Bowman, Woods confident: The Oklahoman

OU's Malcolm Kelly large and in charge: Tulsa World

Crimson, cream no more for Adrian: Tulsa World

The Sooner and Cowboy defense face task of containing Bowman and Kelly: Tulsa World

Turnovers an issue: Tulsa World

Third-string RB ready for the Bedlam to begin: Ft. Worth Star-Telegram

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

AD 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-Statesman

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Former Oklahoma QB, WWLS Color Analyst Thompson Arrested at OKC area hotel: Police arrested former Oklahoma quarterback and local radio announcer Charles Thompson on complaints of public drunkenness and disturbing the peace following a disturbance at a local hotel. Thompson, 38, was arrested early Saturday morning at a Residence Inn after police received three complaints of loud noise coming from Thompson's room, police said. After arriving at the hotel, officers said Thompson was uncooperative and smelled of alcohol. He was arrested after he stepped from his hotel room and told police, "Then take me to jail," according to the report. During his arrest, Thompson reportedly asked officers, "Do you know who I am?" As police led Thompson to a patrol car, he told his friends, "Get [Oklahoma City Mayor] Mick Cornett on the phone. He'll deal with this." Thompson, who led the Sooners to an 11-1 season in 1987, was arrested in 1989 on charges he sold 17 grams of cocaine to undercover FBI agents for $1,400. Following his arrest, he appeared on the cover of Sports Illustrated magazine in handcuffs and an orange jail-issue jumpsuit. He later served a stint in prison as a result of the charges. Most recently, Thompson worked as a color analyst covering high school football games for Oklahoma City sports radio station WWLS. (AP/SI.com)

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Coach Stoops on Peterson postseason honors: Oklahoma tailback Adrian Peterson has missed five games, but remains on the watch list for some postseason awards, including the Doak Walker Award for the nation's best running back. Coach Bob Stoops was asked Sunday if Peterson should still be considered for postseason honors such as All-Big 12 and All-America. "I would think so," he said. "You can't deny the special player he is." Peterson's rushing total of 935 yards still ranks second in the Big 12, and his 155.8 yards per game is first. (NewsOK.com)

Stoops remembers Michigan's Bo: As a Big Ten country native -- born and raised in Ohio, played and coached in Iowa -- Stoops offered some perspective on last week's death of legendary Michigan coach Bo Schembechler Sunday. "That's sad. (He was) a special guy," Stoops said. "I'm too young to have been around him. I did have a chance to meet him at one of our coaches' conventions down in Orlando. "I grew up in Ohio, so I always watched (the Ohio State-Michigan) game and had a cousin who played for Michigan way back when. I always kind of favored Michigan a little bit growing up, because of that association. "But always respect and admire everything you read and know about (Schembechler), what he stood for, and how his teams always played." (Tulsa World)

Stoops not thinking about Bowl possibilities: Coach Bob Stoops said he has not begun to think about bowl possibilities. The Sooners are still alive for the Big 12 South title. "Too much has to happen yet, I think with everybody," he said. (Dallas Morning News)

That time of year: Norman Transcript

Cowboys turning focus to Sooners: Tulsa World

Oklahoma looks to Saturday first: Tulsa World

Big benefit for Bedlam winner: Tulsa World

OU Three Questions: Tulsa World

Will Peterson, Patrick be ready to go?: The Oklahoman

Fuel for the Bedlam fire: The Oklahoman

All Sooners eyes on Texas: The Oklahoman

Bedlam begins on the airwaves: The Oklahoman

Cowboys avoid two-touchdown spread: The Oklahoman

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Sooners Sack the Bears: Bob Stoops isn't having a tough time dealing with Oklahoma's turnovers, not when the players making the mistakes are also scoring touchdowns. Plus, the 16th-ranked Sooners have a six-game winning streak and are still in contention for the Big 12 South title after overcoming five miscues Saturday in a 36-10 victory at Baylor. ''I thought we played well. We executed. That's the pleasing part,'' Stoops said. ''There's a bunch of young guys that are moving the football in a good way. ... If we can learn to finish with two hands and not let the ball go, we'll be in great shape.'' Malcolm Kelly had a touchdown catch and an incredible grab to keep alive another scoring drive by Oklahoma (9-2, 6-1 Big 12). But the sophomore was running down the sideline on his way to another apparent long TD play when he dropped the ball trying to fend off a defender. Reggie Smith , another sophomore, returned one of his two interceptions 42 yards for a touchdown and set up another TD with his other. Third-string freshman tailback Chris Brown ran 24 times for 169 yards and a score. But Baylor (4-8, 3-5) got its only scores after fumbles by Smith (who lost two punt returns) and Brown. (AP/SI.com - Stats)

Baylor dips to a new-low: Baylor established a school-record low with minus-48 yards rushing. The Bears had minus-37 rushing yards against Kansas State in 2002. From OU's standpoint, the minus-48 rushing yards allowed was the second-best showing in school history. Most of the total was due to quarterback Blake Szymanski being sacked five times. Szymanski compiled minus-57 rushing yards on nine carries. A safety was also charged to the team as an 8-yard loss. Paul Mosley, Mario Price and Carl Sims had 17 rushing yards combined. (Dallas Morning News)

Peterson Bedlam status? Adrian Peterson on playing Oklahoma State next week with The Oklahoman... Does he want to play against Oklahoma State? "What do you think?" Peterson said, jerking his head in mock disgust at the mere suggestion he'd skip a chance to compete if not for the broken collarbone that has sidelined him since the Iowa State game Oct. 14. Perhaps that reaction more than anything offers the best insight into what the Oklahoma running back will do, if given clearance by doctors this week. For any further clues, maybe an Ouija board is in order. Will he or won't he? Doctors will x-ray and evaluate Peterson early this week, leading to a decision on his availability when the Sooners face OSU on Saturday in Stillwater. "I'll have to get with the doctors (today) or Monday and just see what they think," said Sooners coach Bob Stoops. "Anyone that's throwing out anything else — let me tell you, I haven't conferred with them, because I knew he wasn't playing this week. When I get with them Monday and know something, then I'll have something to say about it. "Anyone else that's talking about it before that is just guessing." (NewsOK.com)

Pair of Sooners Get First Starts: WR Fred Strong and RB Chris Brown made their first career starts. Brown is the third true freshman to make a start for the Sooners in 2006 (C Chase Beeler and RT Trent Williams).

Brown sets Career High: Chris Brown rushed for a career high 169 yards on 24 carries.

Sooners turn to defense: Norman Transcript

Sooners crush Bears but commit five turnovers: Tulsa World

OU throws sack party: Tulsa World

Freshman smashes through Bears: Tulsa World

Two Minute Drill: Tulsa World

Smith's positives prevail: Tulsa World

Sooners continue climb: Tulsa World

OU defense puts clams on Bears: The Oklahoman

OU can't afford five turnovers vs. OSU: The Oklahoman

Sooners find their stride against Baylor: Dallas Morning News

OU puts a wrap on Bears' season: Ft. Worth Star-Telegram

OU's big plays sink Baylor on Senior Day: Waco Tribune

OU ups outweigh downs: Waco Tribune

OU leaves Szymanski seeing red: Waco Tribune

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Sooners prepared for familiar Bears: The good news for the Sooners heading into Saturday's matchup is they've always defended the spread effectively, and they just got a tune-up by defending the Red Raiders last week. "It helps," Stoops said of the familiarity, "because it's an offense that I feel you have to understand and defensively you have to get used to. It isn't like other spread offenses. They don't run the zone-read options and pull-the-ball quarterback runs. "We worked it the entire week last week. We can look at what we didn't do well, change up some things and wrinkles. Hopefully that can help us. Guys are familiar with the routes and schemes and what they want to do." The Sooners might want to do a better job against Dominique Zeigler than they did a year ago, when the Bear wide receiver caught nine passes for 141 yards in OU's 37-30 double-overtime victory. (Tulsa World)

Walker discovers father figure in Peterson's dad: Tulsa World

Prince, Stoops in horse race: Tulsa World

Switzer -- Schembechler was 'a fiery, fiery guy': Tulsa World

Getting OU into BCS takes some calculating: The Oklahoman

OU-Baylor Story lines: The Oklahoman

Welcome to my world -- Defensive tackle Cory Bennett: The Oklahoman

Preview -- Oklahoma at Baylor: Dallas Morning News

Thompson makes most of his last chance: Ft. Worth Star-Telegram

5 Things to watch -- OU-Baylor: Waco Tribune

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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 Tribune

Sooners Thinking Big Heading Into Baylor: KXII.com

Sooners still have Big 12 chance: The Sporting News

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

USA Today Report: University of Oklahoma's Bob Stoops highest paid College Coach: The sport's dizzying salaries spiral has come to this, a USA TODAY study finds: The million-dollar coach, once a rarity, is now the norm. Head coaches at the NCAA's top-level schools are making an average of $950,000 this year, not counting benefits, incentives, subsidized housing or any of the perks they routinely receive. At least 42 of the 119 Division I-A coaches are earning $1 million or more this year, up from five in 1999. Jim Tressel, coach of No. 1-ranked Ohio State, and Mack Brown, who steered Texas to the national championship a year ago, are among the nine coaches making more than $2 million. Iowa's Kirk Ferentz will pocket a guaranteed $4.6 million in an atypical 13-month period ending next June, including $1.8 million in one-time payments. With the incentive bonuses he still can earn, he could push his take to more than $4.7 million. That's the most among the 107 coaches for whom USA TODAY could obtain a contract or other official document showing compensation. Oklahoma's Bob Stoops is the only coach in that group who has cleared the $3 million-a-year bar in guaranteed pay, although Ferentz likely will join him in 2007. Coaches' contracts these days offer far more than just the basic salary. In scrutinizing contracts, USA TODAY found all kinds of perks: personal use of private jets, low-interest home loans, land deals, million-dollar annuities, pricey luxury suites at schools' stadiums, use of vacation homes and family travel accounts. (More at USA Today)

Perks Noted from USA Today:
Travel: Oklahoma's Bob Stoops gets up to 35 hours a year of private plane availability. Ohio State's Tressel gets 10 hours of jet time for personal use. Virginia's Al Groh gets "reasonable use of the University's aircraft and vehicles" for his duties.

Anniversary Benefit: Oklahoma contributes an average of $750,000 a year toward an "anniversary benefit" paying Bob Stoops $3 million on Dec. 31, 2008, marking his 10th anniversary at the school. He forfeits the money if he leaves for another coaching job before then, though he'll get a prorated portion if he leaves in 2007 or 2008 in conjunction with David Boren's departure as president. Stoops also gets 35 hours of private air travel a year.

Highest Paid Salaries
1. Kirk Ferentz - 2,840,000
2. Pete Carroll - 2,782,320
3. Frank Beamer - 1,893,000
4. Larry Coker - 1,800,000
13. Bob Stoops 950,000

Other Income
1. Bob Stoops - 2,500,000
2. Tommy Tuberville - 1,996,000
3. Phillip Fulmer - 1,725,000
4. Mack Brown - 1,580,000

Maximum Bonus
1. Dirk Koetter - 1,234,000
2. Kirk Ferentz -1,000,000
3. Al Groh - 940,000
7. Bob Stoops - 745,000
11. Mike Gundy - 684,000

Total
1. Bob Stoops - 3,450,000
2. Kirk Ferentz - 2,840,000
3. Pete Carroll - 2,782,000
4. Mack Brown - 2,664,000

(Source USA Today - Full List)

To Oklahoma, Stoops worth more than his weight in gold: USA Today

Peterson Doak Walker Semifinalist: Adrian Peterson has been gone for three weeks, but the Oklahoma running back is not forgotten. He was one of 10 semi-finalists announced today for the Doak Walker Award, which is presented annually to college football's top running back. The Guaranty Bank SMU Athletic Forum Board of Directors oversees the honor. The 166 members of the Doak Walker Award National Selection Committee will cast their votes over the next week to determine the 2006 finalists. On Tuesday, Nov. 21, three finalists will be named, and a second vote will determine the recipient. The recipient of the 2006 Doak Walker Award will be announced live on ESPN's The Home Depot College Football Awards on Thursday, December 7. The award will be presented at the 2006 Doak Walker Award Presentation Banquet in Dallas on Thursday, Feb. 15, 2007. (SoonerSports PR)

Pendleton named All-District VI Academic: Oklahoma defensive tackle Carl Pendleton has been named All-District VI Academic and is now a candidate for Academic All-America honors. ESPN The Magazine sponsors the academic recognition. Pendleton, Sapulpa, Okla., native is a junior in eligibility but has announced that he will forgo his senior season of football to enter graduate school at OU. He already has received the National Football Foundation's Post-Graduate Scholarship. Pendleton carries a 3.86 grade point average in sociology with a minor in religious studies. He is nominated for numerous other awards including the NCAA's Today's Top VIII, FCA's Bobby Bowden Award, the FWAA's Courage Award, the Wuerffel Trophy and the John Wooden Citizenship Cup, presented by Athletes for a Better World. (SoonerSports PR)

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