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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Rufus Alexander on being drafted by the Vikings with Peterson: "I wish I had gone earlier, but it's a good situation," Alexander said. "It's good going up there with Adrian. At least there will be somebody up there that I know." (NewsOK.com)

Alexander, Ah You taken: Norman Transcript

A son's resolve: Pioneer Press

Injury rehab for Peterson not set: Pioneer Press

Peterson is cleared for rookie camp: Minneapolis Star Tribune

New Viking carries heartache: Minneapolis Star Tribune

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

C.J. Ah You Selected in the Final round by Buffalo; Interesting note: Oklahoma defensive end C.J. Ah You was taken with Buffalo's final pick. Levy actually coached Ah You's uncle Junior Ah You who was an accomplished defensive end in the CFL in the mid-1970's. (BuffaloBills.com)

WHAT THEY SAID ABOUT AH YOU:
Bills GM Marv Levy on Ah You's character: "We've examined things extremely carefully with six or eight different people regarding his character and we found nothing that would lead us in that direction. What we got from Oklahoma was all very positive." (BuffaloBills.com)

Bob Stoops on the Bills selecting C.J. Ah You: "Just like we were for Adrian and Rufus we're proud and happy for C.J., and his family," said OU head coach Bob Stoops. "His family got close to our entire program and we were able to develop a special relationship with them in a short period of time. "C.J., was a big, physical presence for us off the edge. He was able to get a lot of pressure on opposing quarterbacks and he was able to do so without losing his containment responsibilities. He was a smart player that was able to overwhelm a lot of offensive tackles with his strength. He has a good build from head to toe and is able to generate a lot of drive." (SoonerSports.com)

Bob Stoops reaction to Vikings selecting Rufus Alexander: Bob Stoops telling SoonerSports.com... OU head coach said he thought the fact that Peterson and Alexander had gone to the same franchise might make for a smoother transition. "We're real happy for Rufus and his family, and it's great that he and Adrian are going to the same team," he said. "I would think that would make things more comfortable for both of them." Stoops said he liked Alexander's sudden play. "Rufus made a lot of plays for us," Stoops stated. "He is a sure tackler with very good closing speed. He got to a lot of ball carriers here and I don't remember very many of them getting away. "I also just enjoyed being around him. He grew a lot as a player and a man over the course of his time here and I think that's very gratifying for him and for our coaches. He became a leader that we depended on." (SoonerSports PR)

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Vikings select Rufus Alexander #176 selection: It took till the sixth round for Oklahoma's Rufus Alexander to hear his name selected in the 2007 NFL Draft. From Vikings.com... The Vikings bolstered their linebacker corps in the sixth round by selecting a talented linebacker out of Oklahoma. Rufus Alexander was the pick, the 176th overall in 2007 and he is a playmaker with great instincts and ball-hawking ability. He measures in at 6-1, 228 pounds and he registered a 4.69 40-yard dash. (Vikings.com) Yesterday, The Minnesota Vikings selected Adrian Peterson at the 7th selection.

Rufus Alexander Profile: CBS Sportsline.com

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Stoops Quote on Peterson: Oklahoma's head coach Bob Stoops telling SoonerSports.com.. "We're very happy and proud for Adrian and his family," said OU head coach Bob Stoops. "He is such a competitive player and I appreciate so much what he brought to our program. He has great pride in the way he plays and he's extremely tough. "Those qualities rub off on the people around him. He has the kind of competitive spirit that elevates those around him. It means an awful lot to him that the entire team does well and I think that is probably his most under-appreciated quality. As much attention as he garnered here, he was always more concerned with being respected in the locker room. Being a good teammate matters a lot to him. He genuinely cares about the people around him." (SoonerSports.com)

Peterson Q&A: Q: Are you relieved that this process is over?
Peterson A: I'm happy it's over. It's a dream come true no matter what. I keep thanking God. (NFL.com)

Vikings Fans React to Peterson Pick: KARE 11

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Peterson falls to the Vikings at the seventh selection: After the Arizona Cardinals chose Penn State offensive tackle Levi Brown with the fifth pick and then the Washington Redskins selected LSU safety LaRon Landry, the Vikings pounced on Oklahoma running back Adrian Peterson. The reaction from the 2007 Miller Lite Vikings Draft Party was emphatic and positive. After the Cardinals surprised a few people with the Brown pick and then Washington chose Landry, fans were chanting "AP! AP!" and went crazy when the pick was announced. Peterson is the best running back in this class and is perhaps the draft's most intriguing prospect. He has a tremendous combination of power and speed, affording him the ability to both run over and around defenders. He punishes defenders and scouts describe him as a violent runner. The knock on Peterson is his durability. (Vikings.com)

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Peterson's collarbone wasn't healed for the Fiesta Bowl? Peterson's father, Nelson, told the World in a phone interview Thursday the injury was a matter of semantics. "I wouldn't say reinjured," Nelson Peterson said. "I would just say it wasn't healed like it should have. And it's still in the healing process. "The way I look at that situation is that Adrian really shouldn't have played in that bowl game. But he wanted to play." (Tulsa World)

Before they were stars: Rufus Alexander: Yahoo! Sports

Dodds: Tradition kept Texas -OU in Dallas: Austin-American Statesman

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Peterson reinjured collarbone but has rehealed: Newsday reports... Peterson acknowledged that he re-injured his collarbone in the Fiesta Bowl in January, but he insists there's nothing to be alarmed about."I got it checked out, and no one gave me any bad indications," he said. Even if Peterson requires a surgical procedure to insert a plate in his collarbone, it likely would not affect his availability for training camp. (NY Newsday)

Browns: Injury not a factor in Draft Status: General Manager Phil Savage said Thursday that the Browns don't think Adrian Peterson needs surgery at this time, and the fact he reinjured his broken collarbone in the Fiesta Bowl on New Year's Day does not hurt his status with the team. "This has not affected our opinion of him for the draft," Savage said in an e-mail response. Peterson, the Oklahoma running back, is one of five players the Browns are considering with the No. 3 overall pick. Peterson's agent, Ben Dogra, said Thursday that it's up to individual teams to determine whether or not Peterson will need surgery to insert a plate into the collarbone. If he does, Peterson will be out only four to six weeks, Dogra said. (Cleveland.com)

ESPN's 2007 mock draft: ESPN.com

Peterson says he's healthy: The Oklahoman

Rumors swirl around AD: Tulsa World

Sooners' Peterson should hear name early: Kansas City Star

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Peterson reinjured shoulder not confirmed: The Oklahoman reports.. A source close to NFL personnel told The Oklahoman that he had not heard of a re-injury, but did acknowledge that there were issues concerning X-rays of Peterson's collarbone. (NewsOK.com) Follow-up from the prevously reported Report: Peterson's Re-Injured Shoulder, Could Be Out For NFL Off-Season.

University of Oklahoma football student season tickets on sale Tuesday: OU student season tickets for 2007 football will be on sale beginning Tuesday, May 1 and continue through Sunday, May 13. The tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last. Season tickets can be purchased online at SoonerSports.com or in person at the OU Athletics Ticket Office. Student season tickets are $145 and will be charged to the student's bursar account. Tickets will be sold online at SoonerSports.com 24 hours a day during the sale beginning at 8 a.m. on May 1 and lasting through midnight on May 13 while supplies last. A $5 non-refundable fee will be associated with utilizing this service. Tickets can also be purchased in person by visiting the OU Athletics Ticket Office, located on the South Plaza Level of Asp Avenue Parking Garage. Walk-up windows sales begin at 10 a.m. on May 1 and will continue every business day through May 13 from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. (SoonerSportss PR)

Messner working to bulk up in hopes of making NFL: The Oklahoman

Peterson the most fascinating player: CBS Sportsline

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Peterson has re-injured shoulder? The first, I have heard this.. If true, its been quiet.. the past few weeks and month... Former Oklahoma running back Adrian Peterson, an almost certain top-10 pick in the first round of Saturday's NFL draft, re-injured his collarbone in the Sooners' loss in the Fiesta Bowl on New Year's Day -- an injury that has not been previously disclosed except to NFL teams. A high-level source on one team said the evaluation of his team's medical staff was that Peterson will require a surgical procedure, which would delay his availability at the start of training camp and perhaps longer. That team estimated Peterson would be sidelined after the procedure for "two or three months." That would likely mean Peterson would miss the entire offseason workouts of the team that drafted him and make him questionable for the early part of the preseason. (SI.com)

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Nichol gains some mass/muscle: Keith Nichol, who left high school early to enroll at Oklahoma last January, has already packed on 21 pounds thanks to the Sooners' lifting and eating regime. But some things have not changed. The 6-foot-2, 206-pound Nichol is still a quality quarterback Just ask Kevin Wilson, the Sooners' offensive coordinator. "Keith exceeded our expectation," Wilson said. "In person, he is better than I thought he would be based on high school tape. He has a strong arm, a quick arm. He can move well, and he does a lot of natural instinctive things. We are very pleased with his ability. His physical skills lend you to think he is going to be very good. "In my opinion, his arm is the strongest arm I've seen since I have been here." (Grand Rapids Press)

Adrian Peterson's Marketing agent been charged with a felony..

And Finally, Our Bee's are disappearing..

Articles..

NFL Draft Day Nearing: SoonerSports.com

Yo, Adrian: Norman Transcript

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

OU-Texas A&M at the Cotton Bowl brief conversation in 2006: A source close to the Oklahoma football program confirmed Tuesday that OU Athletic Director Joe Castiglione and A&M AD Bill Byrne had the briefest of conversations more than a year ago about the possibility of playing in Dallas if the Longhorn-Sooner games were returned to a home-and-home series as it was before 1929. "That goes back a ways," the OU official said of the brief dialogue. "To say that the two schools had that conversation recently would be false. It was a very, very short conversation in which the pros and cons were talked about at a meeting. Sort of a what-if." (Austin American Statesman)

OU has had many players make the NFL, but few among the best ever: The Oklahoman

On draft day, Browns should run, hot pass, to Peterson: CBS Sportsline

Rufus Alexander Draft Journal II: CBS Sportsline

Would Lions run from a QB for Peterson: Detroit Free Press

OU back is talented, but durability issues could scare off teams: San Diego Union-Tribune

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

SI's Mandel Spring Top 25: Sports Illustrated College Football writer, Stewart Mandel's spring college football power rankings.
1. USC
2. LSU
3. Florida
4. West Virginia University
5. Louisville
7. Texas
9. Oklahoma Redshirt freshman Sam Bradford appeared to separate himself from fellow contenders Joey Hazle and Keith Nichol in the QB race. OU is a veteran team, but several impressive youngsters emerged, including WR Adron Tennell, DB Dominique Franks and DT Gerald McCoy
13. Arkansas
18. Nebraska

Previous Spring Power Ranking of CBSSportsline.com's Dennis Dodd has Oklahoma ranked 10th, Texas 8th, Michigan 2nd and USC ranked #1.

ESPN.com SportsNation ask: Which NFL top prospect is likely to be a bust.
Calvin Johnson: 4%
Adrian Peterson: 12%
Brady Quinn: 40%
JaMarcus Russell: 34%
Joe Thomas: 10%
Nearly 6700 Votes

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Adrian Peterson agent charged with bribery and theft: A marketing agent representing former Oklahoma Sooner running back Adrian Peterson is facing felony charges of commercial bribery and theft. Bill Henkel, managing director of 10 Sports Marketing, turned himself in to the Johnson County, Kan., sheriff's office on Friday, deputy Tom Erickson said. Henkel posted $10,000 bond and was released the same day. The charges are related to a sports memorabilia deal that Henkel, the former football marketing director of International Management Group's football division, negotiated involving San Diego Chargers star LaDainian Tomlinson, the Johnson County prosecutor's office said. In August 2005, Henkel allegedly solicited a kickback for a marketing deal involving the Pro Bowl running back, then received a portion of the kickback without the knowledge of Tomlinson or IMG. A complaint issued by the district attorney's office places the value of the theft between $1,000 and $25,000. "To make it clear, there are no charges against LaDainian Tomlinson," said Brian Burgess, a spokesman for the district attorney's office. (AP/SI.com)

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Stoops on Blue Angels Pilot Lt. Cmdr. Kevin J. Davis: Follow up on previous post Monday, Passed Away Blue Angel Pilot Gave Stoops 2006 Flight.. Lt. Cmdr. Kevin J. Davis of Pittsfield, Mass., was in his second year with the Blue Angels, who are known for their high-speed aerobatic demonstrations. Davis took Stoops and former "American Idol" winner Kelly Clarkson on a ride in his Blue Angels jet in Fort Worth, Texas on May 10.On Sunday, [Oklahoma, Bob] Stoops recalled the flight. "My experience with Lt. Davis was overwhelming," Stoops said. "You just don't run into that caliber of person very often. He was bright and obviously very intelligent; a role model." (Charlotte Observer)

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Did you know? The Sooners have had some terrific running backs through the years. But only Greg Pruitt (5,672) and Billy Sims (5,106) surpassed 5,000 career rushing yards as a pro, with Joe Washington finishing at 4,839. (NewsOK.com)

OU Spring Football Wrapup: Tulsa World

Peterson could fall short of expectations in NFL: The Oklahoman

Peterson could fall in the lap of some lucky shopper: New Orleans TImes-Picayune

Browns have chance to snag their first elite runner since 1999: Cleveland Plain Dealer

Peterson has tremendous talent and heart: AZCardinals.com

Competitive fire stokes Peterson: Chronicle-Telegram

Palestine's Peterson set for NFL draft: Palestine Press Herald

Cleveland may pass on Quinn for home-run hitter Peterson: Dayton Daily News

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Peterson part of the Nike Rookie class of 2007: Nike continues its legacy of outstanding football talent with the addition of nine collegiate football All-Americans and top professional prospects to its roster, and the introduction of the players' first advertising and marketing campaign with the Nike brand. Adrian Peterson finished his career with 4,045 yards along with 42 touchdowns. During his four years, Peterson was named to the All-American team as well as rushing for nearly 2,000 yards during his freshman season.

Nike Video Highlights





Courtesy of Nike Press Release

More information about Nike's Rookie Class at www.nike.com/nikegridiron/

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Peterson visits the Lions: As Oklahoma running back Adrian Peterson stood in the sun outside Lions headquarters Friday, he said he liked the facility, liked the coaches and could see himself playing in Detroit. But that doesn't mean he expects the Lions to take him in next weekend's NFL draft. The Lions hold the No. 2 pick. "They sound interested," Peterson said. "But you know, I know the Lions have got a lot of different needs. So you never know which direction they might go in." (Detroit Free Press News)

Passed Away Blue Angel Pilot Gave Stoops 2006 Flight: The Navy Blue Angels returned home to regroup after one of their jets crashed during a maneuver, killing a pilot who was performing in one of his first air shows with the team. Investigators were sifting through the wreckage to determine what caused the aircraft to crash Saturday, killing Lt. Cmdr. Kevin J. Davis. Davis, 32, of Pittsfield, Mass., was in his second year with the Blue Angels, the team known for its high-speed, aerobatic demonstrations, Lt. Cmdr. Garrett Kasper said. Davis, a decorated pilot who joined the Blue Angels in 2005, had previously served as a narrator for the air shows, Reider said. He also handled celebrity flights, and flew with stars such as singer Kelly Clarkson, actor James Franco and University of Oklahoma football coach Bob Stoops. (Navy Times)

We want Adrian: The Oklahoman

OU-Texas staying at Cotton Bowl through 2015: The Oklahoman

Sooners gain most from extension: The Oklahoman

OU-Texas stays at Cotton Bowl: Tulsa World

Red River rivalry stays in Dallas: Norman Transcript

Magician kept OU-UT at Cotton Bowl: Dallas Morning News

Jubiliation greets OU-UT extension: Dallas Morning News

It's high cotton for Texas, Oklahoma: Ft. Worth Star-Telegram

OU's Peterson a cut above other backs in draft: Houston Chronicle

Plans call for OU-Texas matchup to be one of four games: Austin American-Statesman

Peterson flying above crowd: Boston Globe

With No. 3 pick, Browns can turn any which way but lose: Columubs Dispatch

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Oklahoma-Texas Extends Cotton Bowl Agreement: The City of Dallas, the State Fair of Texas, the University of Oklahoma and University of Texas have entered into an agreement that will keep the AT&T Red River Rivalry at the Cotton Bowl through 2015. The game has been played in Dallas since 1929 and long since evolved into one of college football's greatest rivalry games. The move to keep the game at the same location pleased OU Athletics Director Joe Castiglione. "Because of its prominent history and unique atmosphere, the setting of the Red River Rivalry truly represents one of the most special games in all of college football," Castiglione said. "We are grateful for the relationship we share with the State Fair and City of Dallas. They have identified a number of ways to upgrade and expand the Cotton Bowl Stadium and enhance the atmosphere of a venerable old stadium. "The University of Oklahoma and the University of Texas have nearly 80 years invested in this great tradition. As we look forward to continuing in Dallas, we are genuinely excited about all of the plans to improve and expand the Cotton Bowl Stadium. Both universities can involve many more fans in this special fall classic." (More at SoonerSports.com)

OU-Texas to stay at Cotton Bowl: The Oklahoman

Red River rivalry staying put: Norman Transcript

Tradition a winner in this one: Ft. Worth Star-Telegram

Cotton Bowl keeps OU-Texas game: Dallas Morning News

No move is right move for OU-Texas: Dallas Morning News

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Former Arkansas QB likes USC: Quarterback Mitch Mustain, who started eight games for Arkansas last season, will transfer to USC, a source said Wednesday. Mustain, 6 feet 3 and 205 pounds, had been contemplating transferring to either USC or Tulsa. He visited USC in February and also watched the Trojans scrimmage at the Coliseum this month. Mustain could not be reached for comment. Coach Pete Carroll declined to comment. (LA Times) It was speculated at one time, Oklahoma was in the running for Mustain after he announced his departure from Arkansas.

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Red River Shootout to remain at Cotton Bowl Stadium: Dallas Morning News reports, In a reversal of Dallas' recent football fortunes, Mayor Laura Miller will announce Friday that the University of Texas and University of Oklahoma will continue to play their age-old annual football showdown in Fair Park's Cotton Bowl - at least through 2015. On Thursday, officials familiar with the announcement had also said Grambling University and Prairie View A&M University will agree to play their annual game at the Cotton Bowl through 2015. The schools' new contracts, which several Dallas officials say will include hundreds of thousands of dollars in new city-funded incentives, ends months of speculation that they soon would leave the aging Cotton Bowl for other venues, including the Dallas Cowboys' new stadium in Arlington, 20 miles away. (Dallas Morning News)

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

We Remember Those 168 Lives Lost 12 Years Ago Today. Alfred P- Murrah Federal Building We Will Never Forget.

Sampson Quote: "It was right before Thanksgiving, a Sunday afternoon. Three o'clock game against Chicago State. I walked in here and saw 17,600," he said of last Nov. 19. "I kept looking for the bald spot (in the stands). Sunday afternoon, Chicago State, 17,600. "I told my wife, 'Now I know what Bob Stoops felt like.' " The last eight of his 12 years at Oklahoma, Sampson saw Stoops become as much icon as football coach. One year into his reign in Bloomington, Sampson is lavished with similar star treatment. (Tulsa World)

Hold those txts: The Division I Management Council has approved a proposal that eliminates text-messaging in recruiting, sending the issue to an April 26 vote of the Division I Board of Directors. There are challenges for coaches, as well, with the competitive pressure to land top prospects leading some to try to outdo the next guy. "This is an effort to help recruits better manage their time," Sooners football coach Bob Stoops said. "And it will probably help us manage our time better, too. We're always trying to make rules better for the recruits. And in this case, also reduce interruptions. (In part and more at NewsOK.com)

A.D. learns media game: the Oklahoman

Adrian Peterson runs through anger to the NFL: USA Today

QB parity spans the Big 12: San Antonio Express-News

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Bob Stoops Q&A: Q: Can you analyze how your three quarterbacks played in the spring?
Stoops: I thought they got better through the spring. They all have shown the ability to make the throws we need and the decisions we need, but early on in the spring they would make some poor decisions here and there that obviously hurt them and hurt the offense. I think you only get that stinging feeling by doing it. Early on in spring they made some of those, along with the good throws, and I think they learned from it.

Q: Has one quarterback emerged over the other two?
Stoops: No.
(More at Tulsa World)

Pendleton recognized: They called the ceremony at the Oklahoma Memorial Union on Tuesday morning the Max Weitzenhoffer Scholar Athlete Breakfast. A better idea would have been the "Carl Pendleton Show." "Carl, would you please stand again?" OU president David Boren asked from the dais. "I know you just gave the invocation." Pendleton stood so he could be recognized for the $23,000 post-graduate scholarship he earned last fall, a reward that allowed him to leave OU's football team after his junior season to concentrate on more important things. Important things like the next three times he was recognized Tuesday morning -- for winning the Athletic Director's Leadership Award, the Conference Medal and the Sooner Schooner Scholastic Award. (Tulsa World)

Peterson has no doubt he's worthy of a top pick: ESPN.com

NFL will be lucky to have classy Peterson in its league: SI.com

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

OU meets with NCAA Committee: During a break Saturday morning, Brian Halloran wandered over to a small group of reporters and asked for the inside scoop: Who would win Oklahoma's quarterback battle? Halloran, a member of the NCAA's Committee on Infractions, politely declined to return the favor and answer reporters' questions. But the brief exchange might be of some encouragement to OU officials, who met with the infractions committee for more than four hours behind closed doors. Afterward, OU president David Boren said the school received "a fair chance” to answer charges of major rules violations involving football players' employment at Big Red Sports and Imports. And Halloran's question might lend credence to Boren's contention that the infractions committee appreciated the impact of OU's quick action when it discovered three players were paid for work they did not perform. Rhett Bomar's dismissal last summer led to the current quarterback quandary. "I think they have a good understanding of the harshness of the penalties,” Boren said. OU's official party, which numbered about a dozen, included coach Bob Stoops, athletic director Joe Castiglione and director of football operations Merv Johnson. (In part and more at NewsOK.com)

Washington Keynote speaker: Joe Washington says he always welcomes any chance to get back to Oklahoma. But this one will be extra special. Washington, the former University of Oklahoma running back and College Football Hall of Famer, is the keynote speaker at Friday's annual Awards and Scholarship Gala of the 100 Black Men of Tulsa. The banquet starts at 7 p.m. at the Doubletree Hotel Downtown. (Tulsa World)

Peterson thinks the Brown will draft him: Adrian Peterson on where he thinks he'll be drafted: "My gut feeling? Cleveland at three. Sitting down with them [coach Romeo Crennel, GM Phil Savage], I get the feeling they're very, very interested. I would love it there. The fans in Cleveland are the closest to college fans in the NFL. I love the Dawg Pound. I think I can be a franchise back and really help the Browns turn it around.'' (SI.com)

Murray a future star, but unlikely to start: The Oklahoman

Spring Football and Bold Predictions: The Oklahoman

No surprises as OU, NCAA meet: Dallas Morning News

OU pleads its case at hearing: Tulsa World

OU awaits ruling from NCAA: Tulsa World

Gresham learning to block: Tulsa World

Two from NCAA panel back out for hearing: Tulsa World

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Stoops visits USC practice: Steve Spurrier is one of the most successful coaches in college football history. His pupil, former Florida defensive coordinator, now Oklahoma head coach Bob Stoops is right there with him. Stoops was in town Thursday, and paid a vist to USC's practice field for a pre-practice speech. Stoops was introduced by Spurrier, and then spoke to the team for about 10-minutes. (WLTX)

Peterson hopes to provide LT, Johnson combination: Guardian Unlimited

Sooner star heeds plight of Pacman: New York Post

Chat with Adrian Peterson: ESPN.com

FanHouse Mock Draft: Cardinals Select Adrian Peterson: AOL FanHouse

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles And Notes

Stoops' salary 36 times that of a professor at Oklahoma: Salaries of full-time college faculty rose 3.8 percent this year, the biggest increase in five years. Academic salaries vary significantly, depending on rank and institution, but the overall increases narrowly beat inflation and were the highest since 2002, according to an annual survey to be released today by the American Association of University Professors. Salaries of full professors rose 4.2 percent, slightly better than the increases for lower ranks. While salaries for full professors at NCAA Division I-A schools ranged from $63,030 at Marshall University to $136,374 at Duke, the compensation of head football coaches averaged more than $900,000. At the University of Oklahoma, the estimated $3.5 million in compensation for head football coach Bob Stoops -- the highest of any college football coach -- was 36 times that of the average full professor at Oklahoma. (More at AP/Detroit News) In November 2006, USA Today took a deeper look at college football head coaches compensation.

Late Grambling great was tempted to play OU: The Oklahoman

Peterson starting to cash in with endorsement deals: The Oklahoman

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Wasson to walk-on as quarterback: Former Southlake Carroll all-state quarterback Chase Wasson is headed to the University of Oklahoma for his final year of eligibility. Wasson (5-foot-11, 180 pounds) said he has been granted a special waiver by the NCAA allowing him to transfer to Oklahoma after he was released from Texas State. After redshirting his freshman year, Wasson played three seasons for the Division I-AA Bobcats and started five games at quarterback last year. Wasson, who will attend graduate school at Oklahoma and be considered a walk-on, was also a second team All-Southland Conference receiver last year. Wasson, who turns 23 in July, said he will play quarterback for the Sooners, who are inexperienced and unsettled at the position with the loss of Paul Thompson. Wasson, who attended the Sooners' spring game Saturday, plans to move to Norman after his May 12 graduation and enroll in summer school. (Star-Telegram)

Program note: Former Oklahoma running back, Adrian Peterson will appear on ESPNEWS' The Hot List at 3:00 ET/2:00 CT to talk about the upcoming NFL Draft.

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Update: Eldridge's sprained knee ligament: Tight end Brody Eldridge suffered a sprained knee ligament injury after being tackled hard, Wilson said. (Dallas Morning News) (4/8/07) Mild MCL Sprain: The injury is being reported as low grade sprain. As bad as the hit looked, Oklahoma tight end Brody Eldridge seems lucky to have come away with only a sprain. In Saturday's Red-White game at Owen Field, Eldridge was hit hard by linebackers Lewis Baker and Mike Reed, knocking him back and rolling his left leg beneath him. Tests revealed only a mild MCL sprain as well as a high ankle sprain. (NewsOK.com)

Go Inside OU's Last Spring Practice: SoonerSports.com

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Vacancy after Glenn heads to Wyoming: Former OU graduate assistant Casey Glenn has been hired as Wyoming's director of football operations. Glenn is the son of Wyoming head coach Joe Glenn. At Oklahoma, Casey Glenn assisted in coaching the offensive line the last two seasons. Sooners coach Bob Stoops has not yet determined who will fill Glenn's vacant grad assistant spot. (NewsOK.com)

Props to the O-Line: Runnning back DeMarco Murray on the offensive line, "The offensive line did a great job blocking," the redshirt freshman said.

Also, to note.. Today is Oklahoma's final spring practice of 2007.

Dotson in line to start at defensive end for Sooners: The Oklahoman

Hard to feel sorry for Quinn: The Enid News and Eagle

Go Inside Practice 14: SoonerSports.com

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Stoops doesn't expect to makes decision on QB till August: Bob Stoops said a decision between Sam Bradford, Joey Halzle and Keith Nichol won't be made until one of the three has clearly seized the job. One thing working in the coaches' favor is a recent history of intense competitions. "I would guess it would be sometime in August," Stoops said after Saturday's Red-White scrimmage. "When I feel a guy has earned it, we'll say so. I think if you go through eight years here, we have named 'em all at different times. "I mean it when I say (when) a guy has earned it, we'll say so. This isn't new territory for us. We've had four Big 12 championships with four different quarterbacks. So we're used to this. Hopefully we'll get back to another one with a different quarterback." (NewsOK.com)

OU defense rusty, making adjustments: Tulsa World

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Oklahoma Coaches anticipate Nichol to improve: "We hope all three of them are completely different players when they show up in August," said [Josh] Heupel, OU's quarterbacks coach. "But certainly, we feel like Keith has a lot of strides he can make." (NewsOK.com)

DeMarco Murray Interview: KWTV via NewsOK.com

Murray steals Sooner show: Tulsa World

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Oklahoma Soooner Football Articles and Notes

Jerseys to include names in '07? Oklahoma played last season without players' names on the backs of their jerseys, but Saturday, the Sooners' jerseys included their names. Stoops said he would probably keep them that way in the fall, too. "Right now, the players wanted to," he said. "I asked them ... can they remain unselfish about it and not worry about whose name's on the back and more about who's on the front?" They assured the coach that they could. "If they'll continue to act that way," Stoops said, "maybe we'll keep 'em that way." (NewsOK.com)

Murray still getting used to the cameras: After Oklahoma's Red/White spring game Saturday at Owen Field, DeMarco Murray was the media darling. Even if the redshirt freshman wasn't ready for it."I'm not comfortable at all, to be honest," Murray said. "I'm trying to get used to all these interviews. I haven't had this many interviews since my senior year in high school." (Norman Transcript)

No press for the QBs: He enforced the policy [limited press access] again Saturday when he didn't allow OU's three quarterbacks to meet the press after the annual Red / White Game at Memorial Stadium. (Tulsa World)

Eldridge's sprained knee ligament: Tight end Brody Eldridge suffered a sprained knee ligament injury after being tackled hard, Wilson said. (Dallas Morning News) The injury is being reported as low grade sprain.

Walk-on Whitson makes a impact: [Carter] Whitson, a walk-on who played high school ball for his dad, Brent, at Broken Arrow and Shawnee, did more than enough to atone for the missed block. He was OU's third-leading receiver Saturday with two catches for 45 yards. (Tulsa World)

McCoy Practice Injury: Nose guard Gerald McCoy was a late scratch for the Red-White game. The ballyhooed redshirt freshman has been practicing with pain in his calf muscle, but when he jumped over a lineman Thursday, he landed wrong on his leg. "My calf muscle kind of stretched out a little bit, strained it a little bit," McCoy said. "They said they were going to see what happened this morning. Then they said they were going to hold me out, just let me rest a little bit." (NewsOK.com)

Open it up: Norman Transcript

What we learned at Red/White: Norman Transcript

Few QB clues surface in chilly Red/White Game: Tulsa World

Murray steals Sooner show: Tulsa World

Stock Report -- Quarterbacks: The Oklahoman

Best 'o' the blog: The Oklahoman

Murray continues to impress, no true leader at quarterback: The Oklahoman

Lessons in the press box with an expert at his side: The Oklahoman

Quarterbacks remain mum at OU: The Oklahoman

Sooners' backs look promising: Ft. Worth Star-Telegram

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Murray leads the offense in Red-White game: In each of the first two scrimmages of the spring, redshirt freshman running back DeMarco Murray dazzled with his rushing and receiving ability। It was more of the same and then some Saturday at the Red/White Spring Game when 21,020 braved unseasonably cold temperatures at Gaylord Family -- Oklahoma Memorial Stadium. Murray rushed four times for 103 yards and one touchdown as the offense out-scored the defense, 53-30, in a scoring system devised by the coaching staff. The offense, which wore the red uniforms, scored five touchdowns. "It was a good day for us," said OU head coach Bob Stoops. "DeMarco has been special all spring and he was good again today. There were some big plays and I think the fans probably enjoyed that. "We still have a lot of work to do, but I felt there were a lot of positives for us. We've seen some guys improve and we've also had a chance to see where it is that we need to get better." Through three scrimmages this spring, Murray has carried 29 times for 327 yards, an average of 11.3 per attempt. (Stats and more at SoonerSports.com)

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Red-White game today 1:00 at Owen Field, also available on ESPN television. Gates open at 11:30 a.m. Entrance into the stadium will be available through Gates 1, 5, 7, 12.

Red-White system: Offenses can score in traditional ways -- six points for a touchdown, three for a field goal -- and nontraditional ones as well. A play over 30 yards is good for two points, while a first down is good for one. Defenses can keep up by earning three points for a turnover and nine if the turnover is returned for a touchdown. Third-down stops are worth one point and fourth-down stops two, with a three-and-out series resulting in two as well. (Tulsa World)

Wilson looking for leadership: Oklahoma offensive coordinator Kevin Wilson spent much of the last week observing the leadership qualities of his three quarterbacks, something he'll again be watching closely in today's Red/White spring game. "There will be many plays next year where there will be zero seniors on the field offensively" Wilson said. "There will be situations where it will be a freshman-sophomore-junior team" (NewsOK.com)

Murray could be star for Sooners: The Oklahoman

Spring football flashes: The Oklahoman

New challenge brings Little Joe back to Sooners: The Oklahoman

Backup receiver Tennell starting to attract attention: The Oklahoman

Washington is a Sooner again: Tulsa World

Oklahoma needs QBs to mature: Tulsa World

McCoy has made the adjustment: Norman Transcript

Little Joe back in the fold: Norman Transcript

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Rhett Bomar sits down with ESPN: ESPN.com's Joe Schad sits down with former OU quarterback Rhett Bomar.. Rhett Bomar is standing in his bedroom, a room so small that it barely contains his bed and two dressers. On one wood dresser rests the most valuable player trophy he claimed while quarterbacking Oklahoma to victory at the Holiday Bowl two seasons ago. "I'm proud of my time there," Bomar explains. "I'm not going to throw it away or anything like that." Bomar says when he arrived at Oklahoma at a true freshman in the summer of 2004, a school administrator mentioned the dealership as an employment opportunity... How often did he go to Big Red? "There were certain times we were not there," Bomar said. "The majority of the time we were there. It started out, we went there all the time, and things like that, and then one thing leads to another, you know, and you get in trouble." Why did this happen? Did Bomar, who was raised in suburban Dallas, the son of two schoolteachers, need the money? "You don't have time for a job," Bomar said. "Football is basically a full-time job at big-time schools and everything like that. Things happen. And things are easy. And you do it. Ultimately, it was my decision. And I got caught up in it. My actions, you know, are there. They are clear what happened. And so, I mean, I'll take full blame." (Much more, plus video at ESPN.com)

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

McRae speaks for the first time: Brad McRae, the booster at the center of the excessive-pay scheme that landed Oklahoma a date with the NCAA infractions committee, blamed the problem on OU football players Wednesday and said he had no knowledge of what was happening. "Did I tell Rhett Bomar that he could come in there and punch in and out anytime he wanted to? I did not," McRae said in a telephone interview with The Dallas Morning News. "I never liked Rhett Bomar, anyway." Asked if he felt persecuted for being blamed, McRae said: "Yes. What are you doing to me right now?" He said reporters were just writing what they wanted about the situation without regard for the truth. (More at Dallas Morning News) So why does McRae speak now? Who knows? After KFOR-TV tried to track him down months ago.

Bomar says, he didn't intend to break the rules: The former Sooner quarterback just sort of veered astray, according to comments Bomar made to ESPN.com for a story that will appear online Friday. "It started out, we went there all the time" Bomar told ESPN.com. "And then one thing leads to another, you know, and you get in trouble" Bomar took responsibility for his missteps. "Ultimately, it was my decision" Bomar said. "And I got caught up in it. My actions, you know, are there. They are clear what happened. And so, I mean, I'll take full blame" (NewsOK.com)

Roommate to players at Big Red Sports/Imports speaks: A former University of Oklahoma walk-on football player accused of being paid for work he didn't perform at a Norman auto dealership regularly brought home dealership cars for his personal use, a former roommate said. Logan Brosky roomed with Jermaine Hardison, the walk-on, for about a year. Brosky said he knew several players who worked at Big Red Sports/Imports. Some of them would talk about how easy the job was. "They'd just sit there and not do anything and let the Mexicans do all the detailing," Brosky recently said the players told him. "They'd clock in and go eat." Former Big Red manager Brad McRae often threw parties at his house for players and other guests, Brosky said. "He'd buy pizzas, Chinese, Quiznos -- anything they wanted," Brosky said. "I know it happened for sure three times, and it probably happened more than that." (More at Dallas Morning News)

Joe Washington joins the OU Athletics Department: Joe Washington, a three-time All-America running back at Oklahoma from 1972-75, has been named Special Assistant to the Athletics Director and Executive Director of the Varsity O Association at his alma mater. The position being assumed by Washington is newly created. It is part of a restructuring effort designed to place added emphasis on outreach to former student-athletes. OU Athletics Director Joe Castiglione made the announcement. Washington will assume his new duties in May. (More about the announcements at SoonerSports.com)

Go inside spring practice No. 11: SoonerSports.com

Receivers gain ground: Tulsa World

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Former Sooner Bomar highlighted on ESPN Outside the Lines: The Oklahoman has learned that Bomar will be the subject of a segment on Wednesday's Outside the Lines program, which airs at 2:30 p.m. on ESPN (Cox 29) (DirecTV 73 HD). He's not the focus of the show, but part of one segment. ESPN reporter Joe Schad recently visited Bomar in Huntsville, Texas, where the former Sooner bad boy is trying to revive his career with Sam Houston State. Schad tells The Oklahoman that Bomar spills forth no new revelations. (NewsOK.com) Update: ESPN did not air the Rhett Bomar piece, due to Outside the Lines special coverage of the death one of the Greatest coaches in college history, Grambling State's Eddie Robinson dead at 88. No word on later air time.

Quinn defends himself, calling penalties harsh: JD Quinn telling the Tulsa World.. "All I did was take cash," Quinn said. "I didn't break any laws and I get kicked off the team, but there's people on the team that are breaking laws and failing drug tests and stuff like that, and there's nobody getting kicked off the team for that type of stuff." Quinn, 21, refused to give any details of his allegations about other players. He was in legal trouble at OU before last summer's incident. In 2004, Quinn was convicted of two misdemeanors (actual physical control of a vehicle while intoxicated and possession of a fake ID). When asked to clarify his allegations in a second telephone interview on Tuesday, Quinn said, "I said that, but I wasn't really regarding as much about Oklahoma. I was just saying around the country. I wasn't saying it in the context of Oklahoma. There's just people I've heard of doing things." OU football coach Bob Stoops and Oklahoma on Tuesday declined comment, other than associate athletic director Kenny Mossman saying, "the university has turned over all of our material to the NCAA and we stand by that dialogue." (Much more at the TulsaWorld.com) Its obvious Quinn, has little if any remorse, only that of being caught breaking NCAA rules and regulations.. A selfish act of putting self in front of team.

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Wilson recipient of the Merv Johnson Integrity in College Coaching Award: The Oklahoma chapter of the National Football Foundation and College Hall of Fame will host its 23rd Annual Scholar-Athlete Awards Dinner on Wednesday, April 11 at the Petroleum Club of Oklahoma City. Former OU All-American Joe Washington will be the keynote speaker. Several awards will be presented during the evening. Current Sooner Austin Box and OU offensive coordinator Kevin Wilson are among those being feted. Wilson is the recipient of the Merv Johnson Integrity in College Coaching Award. The dinner begins with pictures and a reception at 6 p.m., with the formal program starting at 7 p.m. Tickets are $50 and must be purchased in advance from the OU Touchdown Club. That number is 405/840-1460. (SoonerSports.com)

Get your half-price Red-White Tickets: The clock is ticking on half-price tickets for the Red/White Spring Football Game. Fans have until the close of business Friday to purchase $5 tickets. On Saturday, the day of the game, that price doubles to $10. The Sooners will play their spring game this Saturday before a national television audience on ESPN. "This is an opportunity to put our best foot forward for a national audience," said OU head coach Bob Stoops. "We're excited that ESPN will be here and know that our fans will provide a great environment." To purchase tickets, fans may go online at SoonerSports.com, order over the phone at 405/325-GoOU (4668) or buy them in person from the office located east of Gaylord Family - Oklahoma Memorial Stadium. (SoonerSports PR)

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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.com

Sooners no longer have lone distinction: The Oklahoman

Table Set for Red-White event: Ada Evening News

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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 News

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