January 31, 2008

(1/31) OU Football Articles & Notes

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Rivals.com ranks OU Football/Basketball programs best two combined: Oklahoma has won four national titles in football (1974, 1975, 1985 and 2000) and reached the championship game in 2004. The Sooners also reached the 1988 NCAA basketball final and reached the Final Four in 2002. 2. Michigan 3. North Carolina 4. (t) Ohio State 4. (t) Florida. (Rivals/Yahoo! Sports)

Bedlam gamble a big risk, but may pay off big: The Oklahoman

With three-star rating, recruit overlooked but not forgotten: The Oklahoman

Wes shares style with OU great Tommy McDonald: The Oklahoman

Recruiting review: Big 12's big two are on course: Sporting News

January 30, 2008

Williams Granted Waiver; Bedlam 2008 Ticket Info

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

John Williams granted NCAA hardship waiver: Update a previous post, Oklahoma defensive end John Williams has received a hardship waiver from the NCAA and has been granted a sixth season of athletics eligibility. The 6-5, 249-pound Williams started three games of the 2007 season, but suffered a torn left Achilles tendon in the fourth game at Tulsa and missed the remainder of the campaign. "We're excited to have John back for another season," said OU Head Coach Bob Stoops. "We've felt for some time that John is an excellent player. He was off to a great start before the injury. I know he's looking forward to making a strong contribution for us next season." Williams, who has battled knee surgery and Achilles surgery, said he's looking forward to playing a full season. "The latter part of my career here is going to be my most successful," he said. "Everything is a process. This is what I'm living right now. I've got no choice but to move ahead." The NCAA's decision to grant him another year of eligibility was a stress reliever for Williams. "I'm very relieved, very thankful and grateful," he said. "I really want a chance to finish what I started." The Houston native is continuing rehabilitation efforts. (SoonerSports PR)

OSU Official: No single-game Bedlam tickets to be sold: In order to witness the 2008 Bedlam football game -- Oklahoma at Oklahoma State on Nov. 29 -- Cowboy fans must purchase a $419 season ticket. No single-game Bedlam tickets will be made available. "Our decision to eliminate single-game tickets for Bedlam is based upon our desire to grow our season-ticket sales," OSU athletic director Mike Holder explained. "I just hope our fan base responds to this as a call to buy more season tickets." On a per-game average, the price of an OSU season ticket basically remains the same. (Tulsa World)

Williams granted sixth year of eligibility: The Oklahoman

January 29, 2008

Former OU Coach Mangino OK After Hospital Visit

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Former Oklahoma Coach Mark Mangino undergoes tests: Kansas University football coach Mark Mangino released a statement Monday evening indicating he underwent medical testing for undisclosed reasons. "I underwent some tests over the past couple of days at Lawrence Memorial Hospital," Mangino said in the statement. "These are tests that I had put off until after the season. The tests have been completed, I'm fine and I'll be back in the office and recruiting starting (today)." Mangino, 51, has been coach of the Jayhawks since 2002. (LJWorld.com) Mark Mangino previously served as Oklahoma's offensive line coach in 1999, before being promoted to offense coordinator in 2000.

Jones to Announce Decision on ESPNU

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

J. Jones to commit on ESPNU on National Signing Day? From the ESPN media release: ESPNU, the 24-hour college sports network, will headline ESPN’s robust multimedia coverage of National Signing Day with a seven-hour special, ESPNU Recruiting Insider: National Signing Day Special presented by 76, Wednesday, Feb. 6, from noon to 7 p.m. ET. The show will be highlighted by exclusive live player announcements, in-depth analysis, news and highlights of top recruits and collegiate programs from around the country. Several players ranked by The ESPN 150, a nationwide ranking of top prep football prospects compiled by ESPN Scouts Inc., are expected to announce their decision live, including #2 Julio Jones (Foley High School, Ala.), #4 Terrell Pryor (Jeannette High School, Pa.), #9 Darrell Scott (St. Bonaventure High School, Calif.) and #28 Brandon Harris (Booker T. Washington, Fla.). Guest interviews also include: Clemson recruit #1 Daquan Bowers (Bamberg-Ehrardt High School, S.C.), University of Florida recruit #37 Omar Hunter (Buford High School, Ga.), University of Southern California recruits #68 Khaled Holmes (Mater Dei High School, Calif.) and junior quarterback Matt Barkley (Mater Dei High School, Calif.), LSU head coach Les Miles, Miami (Fla.) head coach Randy Shannon, University of Georgia head coach Mark Richt, Clemson University head coach Tommy Bowden, University of Texas head coach Mack Brown and Notre Dame head coach Charlie Weis. ESPN.com will stream the entire seven-hour ESPNU Recruiting Insider: National Signing Day. (ESPNU PR)

Jones, Lester remain mum on choice: The Oklahoman

January 28, 2008

John Williams to Apply for Medical Hardship

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

DE Williams to apply for medical redshirt after two season-ending injuries: Update a previous story, Oklahoma defensive end John Williams will be applying for a medical redshirt to the NCAA with hopes of returning for a sixth season, according to the Oklahoma sports information department. Williams suffered a torn Achilles tendon against Tulsa this past year, causing him to miss the entire season. The 6-foot-5, 256-pound Williams started alongside Auston English at defensive end for the first four games before the injury. (The Oklahoman)

Update: Julio Jones Recruiting News

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Julio Jones remains quiet; He may not visit Texas Tech:
From SI.com: SoonerScoop (subscription required) published a brief interview Monday about [Julio] Jones' visit to Oklahoma with Foley teammate Robert Lester. "I don't know why [Jones] has been so quiet," Foley coach Todd Watson said Monday, "other than he's a quiet person." Jones declines most interviews, and his trusted advisors provide information on a need-to-know basis. For example, Watson disputed a since-retracted report in the Gainesville (Fla.) Sun today that Jones was sent home early from Florida because he was recruiting for Oklahoma. The report, which caused a minor meltdown among Alabama fans, was wrong. Jones wasn't sent home early, and he wasn't pitching the Sooners. (SI.com) In addition, today the Press Register reports, Jones said Friday that he has narrowed his choices to five: Alabama, Florida, Florida State, Oklahoma and Texas Tech. He went to Oklahoma for a visit this weekend and said he wasn't sure whether he would take a final trip to Texas Tech as planned on Feb. 2. (Press Register)

Jones and Lester talk about OU visit: SoonerScoop.com

Top Recruits Jones and Lester Attends OU Game

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Recruiting prospects attend OU women's game: Among the familiar faces in the crowd Sunday sat Julio Jones, the nation's No. 1 wide receiver and Oklahoma's No. 1 recruiting target heading into National Signing Day on Feb. 6. The 6-foot-4, 215-pounder from Foley, Ala. arrived Saturday for an official visit with teammate and fellow recruit Robert Lester, a four-star safety. OU quarterback signee Landry Jones sat near the two Alabamans throughout the game. (The Oklahoman)

Linebacker Candidates: The Oklahoman

Who'll fill Lofton's shoes? The Oklahoman

Big 12 State of the Union: Oklahoma: Big Red Network

Top 12 NFL Alumni Teams: Scout.com

January 27, 2008

Recruits Make Official OU Visit

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Burton Scott's Norman visit canceled: Five-star athlete Burton Scott (Prichard, Ala.) was scheduled to be in Norman this weekend for an official visit. But after junior-college linebacker J.R. Bryant committed to the Sooners on Friday, the OU coaches decided to not bring in Scott after all. According to Rivals.com, one of the Sooner coaches called Scott's high school coach on Friday and told him they had cancelled Scott's visit. "They told me that they just received a commitment from a kid that has basically pushed their class close to full,” Vigor High School coach Kerry Stephenson told Rivals. (The Oklahoman)

More recruits visit Norman: Lamar Harris, a four-star defensive back/athlete from Gilmer, Texas, has committed to Texas A&M but is also scheduled to visit OU, according to Rivals.com. Zaviar Gooden, a three-star defensive back from Pflugerville, Texas, is in Norman this weekend, according to Scout.com. He visited Missouri last week (he reports high interest in the Tigers) and Oklahoma State on Jan. 11. Kendall Wright, a football-basketball standout from Pittsburg, Texas, canceled a visit last week and was scheduled to be in Norman this week. (Tulsa World)

Sooners Land JUCO Prospect

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and News

J.R. Bryant commits to Oklahoma: Throughout his recruiting, J.R. Bryant did something most college students only practice in the classroom. He took notes. The four-star linebacker from Garden City Community College (Kan.) brought a notebook on every visit. At each stop, Bryant jotted down pros and cons -- such as which coaches he liked and disliked and which roster needed him the most. Which stadium felt like home. Thursday night, the 6-foot-3, 228-pounder pulled out the notebook and looked over his work, weighing each plus and minus among his favorite schools -- OU, OSU and Texas Tech. Friday, he picked the Sooners. "My mom told me I should take notes wherever I went," said Bryant, who hails from Jessup, Ga. "(Schools) are going to show you their best, but you have to look and think about everything. "I looked at Oklahoma, and I thought, ‘Why not play for the best?' They had a lot of pros." Bryant locked up his college decision, and Oklahoma locked up its top recruiting target from the junior college ranks. A big outside linebacker with sub-4.5 speed, Bryant is the No. 34 overall juco recruit, according to Rivals.com. (The Oklahoman)

Q&A: Answering OU fans' questions: The Oklahoman

Sooners snare another JUCO piece as JR Bryant commits: ESPN.com

January 25, 2008

Stoops Visits JUCO

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Bob Stoops stops by Butte College: Bob Stoops, the University of Oklahoma's vaunted head football coach, visited the Butte College campus this morning [Thursday]. On Sunday, Stoops received a verbal commitment from standout Butte free safety David Sims, who is expected to start for the Sooners when they begin their Big 12 Conference title defense in the fall. Assistant coaches from some of the nation's top programs routinely visit Butte to recruit Roadrunners players, but appearances from head coaches like Stoops, who have a limitless schedule of offseason obligations, are much more rare. (Enterprise Record)

Tough luck did not stop this commit: The Oklahoman

Former Sooner in the business of changing lives: The Oklahoman

A look at OU's three early entrants into the NFL: The Daily

January 24, 2008

OU Athletics to Buy Compliance Software

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

University of Oklahoma approves purchase of compliance software: The OU Board of Regents approved the purchase of $155,000 in computer software today. The new software will help the athletic department track NCAA compliance issues -- continuing to fix the problems that came up after the Kelvin Sampson and Rhett Bomar issues. (The Oklahoman - OU Blog)

Wolfe Arrives in Mobile: SoonerSports.com

January 23, 2008

Top Recruits Plan Visit to Norman

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Recruits Jones, Scott and Lester to visit Norman: Three of the nation's top football recruits, all from Alabama, are scheduled to visit Norman this weekend, according to SoonerScoop.com. That includes five-star receiver Julio Jones (Foley, Ala.), five-star athlete Burton Scott (Prichard, Ala.) and four-star defensive back Robert Lester (Foley, Ala.), the latter two having already verbally committed to the Crimson Tide. Jones is considered to be the top wide receiver prospect in the country. Scott, the No. 28-ranked player in the nation according to Rivals.com, could play either slot receiver or cornerback in college. Lester, high school teammates with Jones, will probably play safety. (The Oklahoman)

Small-town Good is big-time prize on offensive line: The Oklahoman

Fast facts about Stephen Good: The Oklahoman

Sooners Add A Pair of Juco's: Crimson and Cream Machine

January 22, 2008

(1/22) OU Football Articles

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Sooners land two from juco ranks: The Oklahoman

Class of 2008 Big 12 South recruiting overview: ESPN.com

Is Stoops the new Carr? CollegeFootballNews.com

January 21, 2008

Patrick Injured at East-West Shrine Game; OU Recruiting News

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Allen Patrick injured at East-West Shrine game: Former OU running back Allen Patrick was injured during the East-West Shrine Game on Saturday night in Houston. Patrick left the game in the first quarter with an apparent knee sprain, though the injury didn't appear to be too serious. The injury came as disappointing news for Patrick who had impressed scouts during the workouts leading up to the game with his ability to find running lanes. Patrick is expected to be drafted between the fourth and sixth rounds. OU tight end Joe Jon Finley also missed time with an apparent hamstring injury. (The Oklahoman)

Sims commits to Oklahoma; to start at free safety: David Sims enjoyed the breakfast in front of the Pacific Ocean amid a lavish beach setting lined up by San Diego State. He appreciated the camaraderie of the small town atmosphere in Pullman, Wash., specifically how it was so similar to Chico, during his recent visit to Washington State. But Sims' trip to Norman, Okla., over the weekend actually led to the standout Butte College free safety giving his verbal commitment to Oklahoma head coach Bob Stoops and the Sooners on Sunday afternoon. The decision ended a two-month long process that began with Mississippi, Kansas State and San Diego State emerging as frontrunners, before an avalanche of other major programs came calling with the Feb. 6 signing day deadline looming on the horizon. "I think my list looks pretty good right now considering I just gave Oklahoma a commitment," Sims said on his cell phone Sunday while boarding a plane back to Northern California..
"It looks like I'm going to start at free safety, return kickoffs and also punts next year," Sims said about his role in Oklahoma's 2008 plans. "They told me they definitely want me on special teams, too." (Chico Enterprise Record) More on OU Football Recruiting.

Another JUCO recruit commits to OU: Sunday, the Sooners got instant help with commitments from junior-college linebacker Mike Balogun (Scranton, Pa.) according to SoonerScoop.com. (The Oklahoman)

Stoops latest in long line of coaches to endure slump: The Oklahoman

Recent additions give group needed class: The Oklahoman

January 20, 2008

Potential Recruits to Visit Campus

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Defensive prospects to visit OU Campus: With Reggie Smith's early departure to the NFL and the graduation of Marcus Walker and D.J. Wolfe, the Sooners will need immediate help in the secondary. That help could be on an official visit this weekend. According to Scout.com, David Sims, a 5-11, 205-pound four-star defensive back who played at Butte College in Oroville, Calif., and reportedly runs a 4.38-second 40-yard dash, indicates a high interest in OU. Victor Johnson, a 6-1, 175-pound safety from Waco, Texas, and Lamar Harris, a 6-0, 170-pound cornerback from Gilmer, Texas, are also visiting. (Tulsa World)

OU's prize catch -- a back with backing: The Oklahoman

Region gets wise to state's hot recruits: Tulsa World

January 19, 2008

Judge Voids Granger's Warrant

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

DeMarcus Granger pre-trial hearing set for March 3rd: A warrant out for Oklahoma sophomore defensive tackle DeMarcus Granger was quashed Friday by a Tempe Municipal Court judge after Granger's attorney filed the motion by fax, according to acting deputy Jeanette Wiesenhofer of the Tempe (Ariz.) Municipal Court criminal division. A pre-trial hearing has been scheduled for March 3 when Granger or his attorney, Jess Lorona of Phoenix, will meet with a Tempe prosecutor or plea to the court. A warrant in the amount of $1,000 was issued for Granger last week after he failed to appear for his scheduled arraignment in Tempe. (The Oklahoman)

January 18, 2008

(1/18) OU Football Articles

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Sooners hire Norvell as co-offensive coordinator: Tulsa World

Norvell named wide receivers coach, co-offensive coordinator: The Oklahoman

Stoops' former teammate coming to Norman: Norman Transcript

Sooners hire UCLA offensive coordinator Norvell: Dallas Morning News

January 17, 2008

Sooners Hire Jay Norvell

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Former UCLA Offensive Coordinator Norvell hired: Jay Norvell has joined Oklahoma's football staff as co-offensive coordinator and receivers coach. OU head coach Bob Stoops made the announcement today. Technically it's the second tour of duty for Norvell with Oklahoma. He had been announced in a similar position prior to the 2002 season, but then opted to join the staff of the Oakland Raiders of the National Football League. Norvell left the Oakland Raiders in February of 2004 for a three-year stint at Nebraska. In 2007, he was the offensive coordinator at UCLA. "Jay has a varied and impressive background of coaching both college and professional football and we are excited that he is coming to Oklahoma," Stoops said. "He brings with him expertise in both coaching and recruiting and we feel there are significant contributions that he can make to our program." Norvell said that the positives of the Oklahoma program are overwhelming. "I'm so excited to work with Bob and the staff there," he said. "I have so much respect for that program. The talent of the team, the quality of the staff and the tremendous support all mean so much to me. I've worked at a lot of schools and I know that this is a special situation. "I've known Bob for a long time and he is tops. Several of the assistant coaches are good friends to so there are just so many positive aspects to this move." The new Sooner assistant said his background should benefit the OU program. (SoonerSports PR)

Report: Oklahoma to Announce Norvell Hire

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Norvell to join Oklahoma coaching staff: Oklahoma has found its new wide receivers, according to comments to the Lincoln (Neb.) Journal-Star. Jay Norvell, who had been offensive coordinator at Nebraska from 2004-06 and spent last season in the same position at UCLA, indicated he had accepted the position in a text message. "I had some other pretty good opportunities," Norvell's message said. "It was just too appealing to be at Oklahoma with all of the talent it has returning. It's a hell of a group. There were some other coordinator positions I looked at, but there wasn't the right combination of talent and (institutional) support." OU officials couldn't confirm the report. (Norman Transcript)

Report -- Norvell to OU: Tulsa World

Granger arrest warrant still unresolved: Tulsa World

Norvell likely back with Sooners: The Oklahoman

January 16, 2008

Muskogee's Owens and McGee Picks OU

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Muskogee pair commits to Oklahoma:
Even as Muskogee's Jameel Owens joked with teammate Stacy McGee, a crimson bill of an OU cap peaked out from under an Oklahoma State one on the table in front of the pair, hinting at the decision to come. In the end, both donned OU caps and announced their commitment to the Sooners on Tuesday before a wrestling match at Ron Milam Gymnasium. The commitment is non-binding. The pair will sign on National Signing Day, Feb. 6. (The Oklahoman)

Sooners lose another: Tulsa World

OU to play Ohio State: Tulsa World

Roughers OU-bound: Tulsa World

Smith's leaving, too: Norman Transcript

Football schedule finalized: Norman Transcript

Owens, McGee pick OU: Muskogee Phoenix

Don't blame the players who turn pro: The Oklahoman

Questions abound for defense: The Oklahoman

Buckeyes add Sooners to schedule: Buckeyes Xtra

January 15, 2008

Reggie Smith to Enter NFL Draft

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Smith to forgo senior season: Oklahoma junior cornerback Reggie Smith has joined teammates Malcolm Kelly and Curtis Lofton in deciding to enter his name in the NFL Draft. OU head coach Bob Stoops confirmed that decision today. "Reggie was a good player for us and we wish him the best," Stoops said. Smith, who missed the Fiesta Bowl with a toe injury, started 13 games in 2007. He ranked No. 4 on the team with 78 tackles. He logged three interceptions and one fumble recovery, which he returned 61 yards for a touchdown against Miami. He was a first team All-Big 12 selection by the league coaches and the Associated Press. The Edmond, Okla., native played in 39 games at OU with 36 starts. He finished with 165 career tackles and eight interceptions. (SoonerSports PR) Teammates and underclassmen Curtis Lofton and Malcolm Kelly have already announced NFL Draft intentions.

Sooners, Buckeyes Announce 2016 and 2017 Series

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Oklahoma-Ohio State Series; Oklahoma Finalizes '08 Schedule: Perennial college football powerhouses Oklahoma and Ohio State will begin a two-game series in 2016. That announcement came today when OU also announced the completion of its 2008 schedule. Tennessee-Chattanooga is the opponent for the final open date that was remaining on the slate for the upcoming season. The Ohio State games will rekindle a series that has been dormant since 1983 when the Buckeyes notched a 24-14 win in Norman. In the previous matchups both Oklahoma and Ohio State brought top-10 rankings into the game. The first game of the new series will take place Sept. 17, 2016 in Norman. It will be followed by a Sept. 16, 2017 game at Columbus. (SoonerSports PR)

OU quiet about published report: Citing unnamed sources, The Sporting News on Monday reported that Jay Norvell will be named co-offensive coordinator / passing game coordinator at Oklahoma. But Kenny Mossman, OU's athletic media relations director, said he has spoken numerous times with head coach Bob Stoops about wide receivers coach Kevin Sumlin's replacement, and Stoops hasn't told him that a hiring is imminent. "I saw that report, and I've heard about that report, but I cannot corroborate that report," Mossman said. (Tulsa World)

Lofton enters NFL Draft: Tulsa World

Recruit ready to decide: Tulsa World

Lofton leaving early: Norman Transcript

Lofton latest to leave Oklahoma for NFL: Norman Transcript

Sooners' Lofton to enter NFL Draft: The Oklahoman

Defections could hurt OU, Texas title hopes: The Oklahoman

January 14, 2008

OU Linebacker Lofton to Enter NFL Draft

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Curtis Lofton to enter NFL Draft: Oklahoma linebacker Curtis Lofton has decided to enter his name in the National Football League Draft. He becomes the second Sooner junior this year to do so. Junior receiver Malcolm Kelly made a similar announcement last Thursday. "Curtis made a lot of big plays during his time here," said OU head coach Bob Stoops. "We wish him all the best in the NFL." Lofton said he reached the decision Sunday. "I'll definitely miss my coaches and teammates," he said. "I came in with my class three years ago and those guys are like brothers to me. And I'll miss playing in front of those 85,000 fans." Lofton said the atmosphere at Oklahoma readied him for the next step. (SoonerSports PR)

Norvell likely choice to replace Sumlin: The Oklahoman

Nichol not going anywhere: The Oklahoman

OU's Lofton will enter NFL Draft: Tulsa World

January 13, 2008

Report: Keith Nichol to Stay at Oklahoma

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Nichol intends to remain at OU: Former Lowell High School quarterback Keith Nichol is staying at Oklahoma. Yes, he and his family understand that the returning quarterback, Sam Bradford, is also a freshman. But Nichol, who has three years of eligibility left, is staying in Sooner-land. "Keith loves OU, he loves the coaches, the players, the facilities; he even loves the weather," father Gary Nichol said. "He is flourishing, and he is happy and proud to be a part of Oklahoma football." (The Grand Rapids Press)

Time will tell whether 2008 recruits are one of the great classes in OU history: The Oklahoman

Stoops' OU success creates a monster: Tulsa World

OU's five-star recruit gave up trouble for football: Tulsa World

Recruiting Notebook -- Decision time: Tulsa World

January 11, 2008

Lee Roy Selmon Finally Gets His '75 Outland Trophy

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Selmon receives '75 Outland Trophy: Sooner great Lee Roy Selmon finally picked up his Outland Trophy 32 years after winning the award. Selmon joined 2007 recipient, LSU defensive tackle Glenn Dorsey, at an awards dinner in Omaha, Neb., on Thursday evening. The Outland award, presented each season to the nation's best collegiate interior lineman by the Football Writers Association of America, didn't present an actual trophy until the 1980s, so a past recipient is brought back each year to receive his own hardware. "When you think of Outland, you think of guys from Nebraska and Oklahoma -- big-time football players -- guys with great character who basically come out and just beat the tar out of you,'' Dorsey said. (SoonerSports PR)

Wolfe to play in Senior Bowl: Oklahoma safety D.J. Wolfe has been selected to play in this year's Under Armour Senior Bowl. The game will be played Jan. 26 at Ladd-Peebles Stadium in Mobile, Ala. The contest will kick off at 3 p.m., and be televised on the NFL Network, Cox digital cable 252. (Tulsa World)

OU's Kelly to turn pro: Tulsa World

Kelly going pro: Norman Transcript

Malcolm not in the middle for Sooners: The Oklahoman

Though it's no magic bullet, Plus One is a shot at the BCS: Ft. Worth Star-Telegram

What's hot (and not) from bowl season: ESPN.com

January 10, 2008

OU's Malcolm Kelly Going Pro

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Kelly to enter NFL Draft: Oklahoma wide receiver Malcolm Kelly has decided to bypass his senior year of college eligibility to enter the National Football League Draft. OU head coach Bob Stoops confirmed Kelly's decision Thursday afternoon. "We're excited for Malcolm and his family," Stoops said. "He was an oustanding player in our program and we appreciate all of his efforts. We look forward to watching him in the NFL. He is well-suited to professional football in many ways and we are sure that the attributes that made him such a success for us will serve him equally well on that level." Last season, Kelly, a Longview, Texas native, was the Sooners' second-leading receiver in catches, yards and touchdowns with 49 grabs for 821 yards and nine TD. Among the OU regulars, he was tops with 16.8 yards per reception. "I felt like the time was right to make this decision," said Kelly. "My family and I have talked it over for the last few days and decided this was the way to go. I've talked to a lot of guys who I trust who are playing in the NFL and I value their input. "OU and the coaches there gave me the best opportunity to reach the pro level. Going to OU was really the thing that put me in the position to be able to make this decision." (SoonerSports PR)

Oklahoma needs to get over itself and its Fiesta Bowl fiasco ASAP: Tulsa World

OU Notebook -- Spavital joins Sumlin: Tulsa World

Should Malcolm Kelly stay or go?: The Oklahoman

January 9, 2008

Warrant Issued for Granger After Missing Court

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Tempe arrest warrant issued for DeMarcus Granger: DeMarcus Granger is still on the Oklahoma football team. But he's not yet out of legal trouble in the desert. A warrant is expected to be issued for the Sooner sophomore defensive tackle, who did not show up for his scheduled arraignment, according to the Tempe (Ariz.) Municipal Court offices. Granger, 21, was supposed to stand before judge Michelle O'Hair-Schattenberg about 8:30 a.m. Tuesday after being arrested Dec. 29, accused of shoplifting. According to the Tempe court, O'Hair-Schattenberg has already signed the order for Granger's warrant. (NewsOK.com)

Top recruits to declare decision at wrestling match: The Oklahoman

Uniting in Bedlam hate: The Oklahoman

January 8, 2008

(1/8) Oklahoma Football Articles and Notes

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

OU 8th in AP Poll: Oklahoma caps the season ranked 8th in AP final poll. Complete ranking and story at ESPN.com.

Four Sooners selected to play in East-West Shrine game: Oklahoma players Joe Jon Finley, Garrett Hartley, Allen Patrick and Marcus Walker have been selected to play in the 83rd Annual East-West Shrine Game. (The Oklahoman)

OU Notebook -- Selmon to get Outland: Tulsa World

January 7, 2008

OU Coaching Staff Update

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Sumlin hires graduate assistant: Sumlin is taking OU defensive graduate assistant Zac Spavital with him to coach the cornerbacks at Houston. (The Oklahoman)

No other staff changes expected: Stoops said that other than Sumlin and Spavital leaving for Houston, he expects there to be no other coaching changes. "No, I don't believe there will be anymore,” Stoops said. "I believe they will be the only changes.”(
The Oklahoman)

Will Sooners have mindset to capture crown?: The Oklahoman

Free advice for downtrodden OU fans -- move on: The Oklahoman

Big 12 All-Bowl Team: Crimson And Cream Machine

January 6, 2008

(1/6) OU Football Articles

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Wrapping up the season: Norman Transcript

Five keys to next season: Norman Transcript

Sooners show Missour who's boss Big 12, stumble at Fiesta: The Oklahoman

Five big questions for the Sooners next season: The Oklahoman

Projecting the Big 12: Tigers, Sooners might meet again: The Oklahoman

Watch out for Bulldogs, USC in 2008: The Oklahoman

Key offeseason dates: The Oklahoman

Sooners stoop to another low: The Morning Call

January 5, 2008

DeMarcus Granger to Remain With Team

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Stoops: Granger to remain with team: Coach Bob Stoops said Friday morning that suspended sophomore defensive tackle DeMarcus Granger is likely to remain with the team. "I expect him back,” Stoops said. "We'll see what else we can do with him. I'm sure they'll be some other disciplinary action.” Granger did not play in the Fiesta Bowl after being arrested last Saturday night, accused of shoplifting. According to police, Granger attempted to steal a jacket from a Burlington Coat Factory inside Arizona Mills Mall. (The Oklahoman)

Granger will return: Tulsa World

Small change could fix Oklahoma's bowl jinx: Tulsa World

Sooners still mulling NFL Draft: Tulsa World

Stoops taking hard look at how Sooners approached bowls: Norman Transcript

Bowl appearances no comfort for OU fans: Enid News

Ex-Sooner Ingram is smart, savvy: The Oklahoman

Oklahoma recruits get a test against the best: Dallas Morning News

Emphasis on Big 12 might have cost OU: Ft. Worth Star-Telegram

January 4, 2008

(1/4) OU Football Fiesta Bowl Articles

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Three OU storylines heading into next season: Tulsa World

OU Notebook -- Stormy front: Tulsa World

Win could've given OU momentum in '08: Tulsa World

Big 12 champs fail to finish, again: Tulsa World

Picking up the pieces: Norman Transcript

Time for some changes: Norman Transcript

OU loss hurts Stoops’ reputation: The Enid News and Eagle

Stoops could learn a lesson from West Virginia's folksy Bill Stewart: The Oklahoman

Sooner fans frustrated: The Oklahoman

Without Kelly, OU was just average: The Oklahoman

KU gives Big 12 credibility despite Oklahomas failures: Kansas City Star

Big 12 Insider: League's football image boosted a bit: San Antonio Express-News

Oklahoma again not OK: HeraldNet

January 3, 2008

Post OU-West Virgina Fiesta Bowl Articles and Notes

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

OU stretched thin: The Sooners were without Malcolm Kelly for all but three plays Wednesday night, and lost Juaquin Iglesias for one play early in the second quarter when the junior wide receiver appeared to turn his ankle. Quentin Chaney was able to help plug Kelly's absence with a career-high 129 receiving yards on four catches. When Iglesias left, however, OU was forced to insert walk-on Garrett Bothun. Sam Bradford scrambled for 8 yards on Bothun's one play. (Tulsa World)

Pair of Sooners get their first start: Oklahoma started redshirt freshmen Jeremy Beal of Carrollton Creekview at defensive end and Adrian Taylor of Mansfield at defensive tackle. Beal started in place of sophomore Auston English, the Big 12 sacks leader with 9 ½ , who has been battling the flu all week and is still recovering from an injured right ankle. It was Beal's second start this season. English saw limited playing time. Taylor started in place of sophomore DeMarcus Granger (Kimball), who was arrested late Saturday night on a charge of shoplifting and was sent home. (Dallas Morning News)

Stoops Coaching rumors: There are rumors that Oklahoma coach Bob Stoops is a candidate for the NFL job with the Baltimore Ravens, who fired Brian Billick on Monday. Stoops was also mentioned as a possibility for Michigan, which eventually hired Rich Rodriguez from West Virginia. (The Arizona Republic)

Fiesta Fiasco -- Mountaineers manhandle Sooners: Tulsa World

'Big game Bob' hasn't been lately: Tulsa World

A history of yardage: Tulsa World

OU Football Two Minute Drill: Tulsa World

OU loyalists pack Fiesta Bowl again: Tulsa World

Onside kick, other woes to haunt OU: Tulsa World

Chaney is bright spot for Sooners: Tulsa World

Impressive QB play dooms OU: Tulsa World

West Virginia extends Sooners BCS losing streak: Norman Transcript

It was over before it even started: Norman Transcript

No Kelly, big problems: Norman Transcript

Chaney's star leads to career night for junior: The Oklahoman

Fiesta Bowl Notebook: The Oklahoman

By the numbers: The Oklahoman

News and views: The Oklahoman

Stoops runs out of magic again, and Sooners' BCS struggles continue: The Oklahoman

West Virginia sends the Sooners to another loss in Arizona: The Oklahoman

Speed the key for mountaineers: The Oklahoman

Missing starters aren't to blame: The Oklahoman

Bummer, Sooners — Another BCS bust: Arizona Republic

W. Virginia is more than offensive powerhouse: Arizona Republic

Mountaineers slam Sooners in Fiesta Bowl: East Valley Tribune

Valley unkind to Stoops brothers: East Valley Tribune

Comedy of errors plague Sooners: East Valley Tribune

Onside kick surprised Mountaineers: Charleston Daily Mail

Devine was 'a little too excited': Charleston Daily Mail

White comes up with another big time game for Mountaineers: Charleston Daily Mail

News of Mountaineer demise quite premature: Charleston Gazette

Fiesta Bowl could be last hurrah for Slaton, Reynaud: Charleston Gazette

Defense sets the tone for Mountaineers: Charleston Gazette

Rich who? One for Stew: Charleston Gazette

West Virginia crashes Oklahoma's fiesta: Dallas Morning News

Trick play backfires on Sooners: Ft. Worth Star-Telegram

Stewart's resume topped with Fiesta Bowl win: ESPN.com

White outruns Oklahoma as West Virginia takes Fiesta: USA Today

Oklahoma becomes latest BCS bust: FoxSports.com

Sooners Stunned by West Virgina 48-28

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Mountaineers run past the Sooners: Pat White guided West Virginia to a stunningly easy romp over No. 3 Oklahoma in the Fiesta Bowl. Then, the option quarterback made his biggest pitch of the night. White ran for 150 yards and threw for 176 and two touchdowns in a 48-28 victory. After it was over, he endorsed Mountaineers interim coach Bill Stewart to become the permanent successor to Rich Rodriguez, who bolted for Michigan last month. ''He deserves it,'' White said. ''A great man. A great coach. All the players respect him and all the players love him. You couldn't ask for a better man to lead us to victory today.'' An emotional Stewart wouldn't lobby for the job. But he relished what he called ''a colossal win for our program. ''I never had a Gatorade bath,'' said Stewart, a native West Virginian who has been an assistant for most of his career. ''It was special.'' (SoonerSports.com - Stats)

Notes and Tidbits - From SoonerSports.com
Sam Bradford's 242 passing yards marked the fourth best by a Sooner in bowl game history. Josh Heupel owns the top mark with 390 passing yards in the 1999 Independence Bowl.

Quentin Chaney's 129 total receiving yards also marked the fourth best by any Sooner in a bowl game.

Allen Patrick recorded a career-high 73-yard kickoff return in the first quarter. Patrick is the fourth different Oklahoma player this season to have a kickoff return of 35 yards or more.

January 2, 2008

2008 OU Fiesta Bowl Preview

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Defensive play likely key for OU: Stoops said playing good defense will be the key to winning the Fiesta Bowl. "Great defense is a major factor in these games,” Stoops said. "What always jumps out at me is defense. I think (West Virginia) has played really good defense through the season.” Despite being known for offense, the Mountaineers have the seventh-best scoring defense in the country. (The Oklahoman)

Dominique Franks to start at cornerback: Redshirt freshman Dominique Franks will make his first start at cornerback today, OU coach Bob Stoops said Tuesday. Franks is replacing injured starter Reggie Smith, who is out with a broken toe he suffered in the Big 12 championship game. Franks will also replace Smith as punt returner. Franks has played sparingly in 12 games and has only three tackles. (Dallas Morning News)

Season of Sam: Tulsa World

OU defense faces familiar challenge: Tulsa World

Fiesta Matchups: Tulsa World

OU Notebook -- Franks to start: Tulsa World

5 OU Storylines: Tulsa World

OU Daily Log: Tulsa World

Ten OU bowl moments: Tulsa World

Boise State game just won't go away: Tulsa World

They're all 'sick of hearing about it': Tulsa World

Williams gets the right breaks: Tulsa World

West Virginia's White often compared to former Texas star Vince Young: Tulsa World

Sooners aim to snap three-game BCS skid: Norman Transcript

He's so good you forget about him: Norman Transcript

Turnovers likely key to Fiesta Bowl: Norman Transcript

Give edge to OU: The Oklahoman

Pride on the line: The Oklahoman

Victory could serve as prelude to national title run next season: The Oklahoman

Triplets key to WVU's spread attack: The Oklahoman

Keys to the game: The Oklahoman

Franks will start at corner: The Oklahoman

Mountaineers receiver Reynaud commands respect: The Oklahoman

Back to start at finish for Oklahoma safety: Dallas Morning News

Oklahoma must slow down quite a spread: Ft. Worth Star-Telegram

Venables not one to give an inch: Ft. Worth Star-Telegram

West Virginia leary of Oklahoma: Arizona Republic

Fiesta Bowl Scouting Report: Arizona Republic

WVU's Stewart hopes to be more than a statistic: Charleston Daily Mail

WVU may air-out its playbook against Sooners: Charleston Daily Mail

WVU fans having a great time at Fiesta Bowl, even without Rodriguez: Charleston Daily Mail

Mountaineers coping with triple whammy: Fox Sports.com

WVU has big challenge: Wheeling News-Register

January 1, 2008

OU's Granger Sent Home After Arrest

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Granger suspended and sent home: Oklahoma defensive tackle DeMarcus Granger was sent home Sunday and will not play in Wednesday’s Fiesta Bowl against West Virginia. Granger, a sophomore, was arrested at 10:20 p.m. Saturday for shoplifting at the Burlington Coat Factory located in Arizona Mills Mall in Tempe, Ariz. According to a statement released by the Tempe Police Department spokesman Mike Horn Monday, “Granger removed an anti-theft devise from a jacket and then concealed the jacket in a bag. He walked past the cash registers without paying for the packet. Granger was stopped by store security, who then contacted Tempe police.” Granger, 21, made admissions to the offense and was booked into Tempe City Jail for one count of shoplifting, a class 1 misdemeanor. He later bonded out of jail. OU coach Bob Stoops confirmed Granger had been sent home to due disciplinary reasons Monday morning at the team’s media at University of Phoenix Stadium. “He’s been sent home and won’t play. We’ll deal with his situation when we get back,” Stoops said. “If there’s anything further we’ll see.” (Norman Transcript)

OU faces game without Granger: The Oklahoman

Granger's theft of coat foolish for many reasons: The Oklahoman

Cornerback Walker winding up level playing career for Sooners: The Oklahoman

Fiesta Notebook: The Oklahoman

Mountaineers fans get a chance to vent anger: The Oklahoman

West Virginia's Schmitt gets kicks through contact: The Oklahoman

Phoenix bound? Good luck: The Oklahoman

OU tackle Granger is sent home: Tulsa World

OU Notebook --Send 'em all home: Tulsa World

OU Daily Log: Tulsa World

Zone read not new to OU, but Mountaineers' speed could be trouble: Dallas Morning News

Bradford keys Oklahoma's storm: Arizona Republic

Stadium readied for Fiesta: Arizona Republic

Sooners still trying to shake memory of Fiesta Bowl flop: Charleston Gazette

'Coach Stew Show' a big hit in Phoenix: Charleston Gazette

Pressure's on Lofton, English to slow Mountaineers' offense: Charleston Gazette

Oklahoma's Lofton usually around football: Charleston Daily Mail

WVU sizes up Oklahoma: Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

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