Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

DB Will Ford commits to Oklahoma: Defensive back Will Ford of Abilene Cooper (Texas) High School confirmed that he committed to Oklahoma on Monday, bringing the Sooners' 2009 commitment total to 11. Ford (6-foot-1, 190 pounds) also had scholarship offers from Baylor, Texas Christian and Texas Tech. (The Oklahoman)

Dotson and Baker the latest OU free-agent signees: Former Oklahoma defensive end Alonzo Dotson has agreed to terms on a free-agent contract with the Washington Redskins. Dotson is the sixth undrafted Sooner to be picked up by an NFL team. He joins Lewis Baker (San Francisco), Joe Jon Finley (San Francisco), Garrett Hartley (Denver), Marcus Walker (Minnesota) and D.J. Wolfe (Atlanta). (The Oklahoman)

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Couple of free agent signings of former Sooners who went undrafted.

Denver Broncos: K Garrett Hartley

SF 49ers: TE Joe Jon Finley

Minnesota Vikings: CB Marcus Walker

Atlanta Falcons: DJ Wolfe

Updated

Two more drafted: Norman Transcript

Sooners had four players taken in NFL Draft: The Oklahoman

Smith sleeps in, but eager to help 49ers: Tulsa World

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Draft's second day brings wake-up call for OU's Smith: Muskogee Phoenix

OU's Smith taken by 49ers: Tulsa World

Falcons have versatile linebacker in Lofton: Atlanta Journal Constitution

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Baltimore Ravens select Allen Patrick 240th overall: The Baltimore Ravens selected Allen Patrick, former Oklahoma running back 240th overall in the 2008 NFL Draft.

Related:
49ers Select Reggie Smith 75th Overall
Washington Redskins Draft Malcolm Kelly
Atlanta Falcons Draft Lofton at 37th Overall

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Reggie Smith selected 75th overall by SF. 49ers: The 49ers started off Sunday morning with their third-round selection of cornerback Reggie Smith out of Oklahoma. Unlike the 49ers first two picks who had large gatherings to celebrate their selections on Saturday, Smith received the news while still in bed. "I was in bed still," admitted Smith. "I just rolled out. I was just waiting. I didn’t know when I would get drafted. I had heard anything from second to third." (49ers.com)

Smith a Real Sleeper: SF Gate

Related:
Washington Redskins Draft Malcolm Kelly
Atlanta Falcons Draft Lofton at 37th Overall

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Venables says Lofton made the right decision: The Oklahoman

It's first time in 7 years a Sooner isn't picked in first round of draft: The Oklahoman

Second-round recruits: Tulsa World

Lofton, Kelly taken in second round: Norman Transcript

Three Receivers Are Selected With 2nd-Round Picks: Washington Post

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Redskins draft Malcolm Kelly 51st overall in NFL Draft: The Redskins selected Oklahoma wide receiver Malcolm Kelly with their third second-round draft pick on Saturday. Kelly was the 51st overall pick in the draft. Kelly, 6-3 and 219 pounds, made the most of his opportunities at run-oriented Oklahoma and ended up becoming one of the elite wide receivers in Sooners history. (Redskins.com)

Kelly will add needed size to Washington's receiving unit: The Oklahoman

Longview's Malcolm Kelly gets drafted by the Washington Redskins: Longview News and Journal

Related:
49ers Select Reggie Smith 75th Overall
Atlanta Falcons Draft Lofton at 37th Overall

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Lofton selected 37th overall by Atlanta Falcons: The Atlanta Falcons picked the former Oklahoma linebacker with the 37th overall pick.

OU's Lofton drafted by the Atlanta Falcons: The Oklahoman

Birds pick up linebacker Lofton in second: Atlanta Falcons.com

Related:
49ers Select Reggie Smith 75th Overall
Washington Redskins Draft Malcolm Kelly

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Kelly still might be a first-round pick: The Oklahoman

OU NFL prospects: The Oklahoman

NFL: The Next Generation: Tulsa World

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Sooner Caravan dates and locations announced: The Sooner Club has announced dates for the 10th Annual Sooner Caravan, with stops in Dallas, Tulsa, Houston and Oklahoma City this summer. Join members of the OU Athletics Department staff and fellow fans for food and fun when this year's Caravan rolls into town. The Sooner Caravan is designed as a thank you to loyal Sooner fans like you! To register, please view the instructions below. All Sooners and friends are invited to attend an enjoyable meal with the university and athletics staff members. Director of Athletics Joe Castiglione, Women's Basketball Coach Sherri Coale, Men's Basketball Coach Jeff Capel, Football Coach Bob Stoops and student-athletes will discuss previous successes and outlooks for the coming year. (More Information at SoonerSports.com)

Timing wasn't only thing off for Oklahoma's Kelly: Boston Globe

Redskins pay a visit to Kelly: Washington Post

Q&A Off the Field: Former Oklahoma WR Malcolm Kelly: Express

A round of applause for Curtis Lofton: Enid News

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Lofton hoping NFL teams ignore his test numbers: The Oklahoman

The fall of OU's Kelly, Bowman: Tulsa World

2008 OU Spring Football Wrapup: Tulsa World

Locals take different routes to Oklahoma: Las Vegas Review-Journal

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Travis Wilson and Clint Ingram featured in documentary Two Days in April: Every boy who has ever played football, from Pop Warner, to high school, or in the backyard with their buddies, dreams of being the star player who leads their team to Super Bowl victory. Very few are lucky enough to have the talent to even compete at a college level, let alone make it to the pros. However, for a select few, their dreams have the chance to come true over two days in April at the NFL draft. Each year, the National Football League has football fans and players, alike, holding their collective breath to see out of the thousands of eligible college players, who will be the lucky 255 to have the opportunity to play? TWO DAYS IN APRIL follows four young men and their journey to be drafted into the NFL. Signed by super sports agent, Tom Condon, they are brought to the exclusive IMG academy to elevate their game before crucial draft benchmarks. For the next 16 weeks, they will be trained, both mentally and physically, by some of the top professionals in the world of sports and football. Their job is to help prepare these players for what equates to the most daunting job interview ever imagined - the NFL combine, where the slightest error can cost a player millions of dollars, or even worse, the opportunity to play professional football. With unprecedented access, TWO DAYS IN APRIL reveals the never-before-seen side of what it truly takes to make it in the NFL. Much more than a sports movie, TWO DAYS IN APRIL chronicles the human spirit of commitment in the face of huge odds and enormous competition. It’s about hope, dedication, success and disappointment. We follow the dream of two parents, who have sacrificed much, to see their sons succeed. We meet a grandmother hoping to stay alive long enough to see her devoted grandson reach his goals. We feel the desperation of a soon-to-be wife showing her love and support while her future husband grasps on to hope. In two excruciating and anxiety ridden days in April, will all of their dreams finally come true? (twodaysinapril.com) "Two Days in April" documentary is available to through Netflix.com.

Video Trailer: Two Days In April

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

ProFootballCentral.com interviews WR Malcolm Kelly: Pro Football Central recently sat down with former Oklahoma wide receiver Malcolm Kelly. In what NFL Insiders and Writers call a a must listen and PFC will air it live on Pro Football Central Radio this tonight at 7 pm est! (ProFootballCentral.com)

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Big 12 QBs rank among strongest in the country: Tulsa World

Big 12 Spring Review: Tulsa World

Big 12 will be a quarterback league next season: Kansas City Star

Sam Bradford Sophomore Slump? Burnt Orange Nation

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Former Sooner Tommie Harris holding celebrity golf and billiards event: Former Sooner and current Chicago Bears defensive tackle Tommie Harris is coming back to Oklahoma to host his annual charity golf tournament the weekend of May 2-3. The Tommie Harris Celebrity Classic will feature a dinner and auction Friday, May 2, at the Oklahoma History Center, as well as a golf tournament Saturday, May 3, at the Belmar Golf Club and a billiards tournament later in the night at Riverwind Casino. Several former Sooners are scheduled to participate, including Roy Williams of the Dallas Cowboys, Davin Joseph of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Teddy Lehman of the Buccaneers, Jammal Brown of the New Orleans Saints, Dusty Dvoracek of the Bears and Mark Bradley of the Bears. Other NFL players attending include former Oklahoma State player R.W. McQuarters of the New York Giants, Greg Jennings of the Green Bay Packers and Sam Hurd of the Cowboys. Proceeds from the event will go to the Boys & Girls Club of America, the United Leukodystrophy Foundation and The Tommie Harris Foundation, which raises funds for the purpose of preventing child abuse in America. For more information, call (405) 949-0022, ext: 403. (PR)

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Linebacker help coming: The Oklahoman

OU's mascot makeover: The Oklahoman

Football Updates: Houston Chronicle - Sooner Blog

Malcolm Kelly's 'Slow Surface' at Oklahoma Pro Day Why Adrian Peterson Didn't Run? AOL Sports Blog

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Defense the story for OU this spring: Norman Transcript

OU Football Fan Q&A: The Oklahoman

Q&A with linebacker Travis Lewis: The Oklahoman

OU 2008 Schedule Break Down: Tulsa World

Observations from Bob Stoops: Tulsa World

Observations from Sam Bradford: Tulsa World

Spring Football Wrapup: Tulsa World

Sooners' reserves see playing time: Tulsa World

Three Questions: Tulsa World

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Loadholt, Granger, and Robinson on Outland watch list: Three Oklahoma linemen are on the preseason watch list for the 2008 Outland Trophy. The award is presented annually by the Football Writers Association of America. Sooner offensive linemen Phil Loadholt and Duke Robinson along with defensive tackle DeMarcus Granger are on the list. Robinson, OU's left guard, was a consensus All-American last season when he started 13 of the team's 14 games. He saw action in 663 plays with 97 knockdown blocks and a season grade of 85%. Loadholt, the left tackle is the tallest football starter in OU history at 6-8. He was an honorable mention All-American last season by Sports Illustrated. He was on the field for 740 snaps with 104 knockdowns. His season grade was 79%. Granger was a second-team All-Big 12 pick in 2007. He played in 13 games with 11 starts. For the season, he registered 35 tackles, including 8.5 for losses and 3.5 sacks. (SoonerSports PR)

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Big 12 spring report: Sooners have spring questions: FOXSports.com

Big 12 roundup: Sooners, Jayhawks struggle offensively in spring games: ESPN.com

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Wort commits to OU over LSU, A&M, Miami and others: New Braunfels linebacker Tom Wort decided he couldn't wait any longer. After taking informal visits to three college campuses, Comal County's reigning Defensive Player of the Year announced Wednesday morning that he was committing to play college football with the Oklahoma Sooners. "It was a big day for me today," he said. "I've been talking with (New Braunfels head football coach) Caniford and my family about this the last couple of days. I couldn't stop thinking about my visit to Oklahoma and I made my decision a few days ago. "So this morning I pulled the trigger and decided to go to Oklahoma." Wort, a 6-0, 210-pounder, transferred to New Braunfels from Rhode Island last spring and impressed New Braunfels coaches right off the bat. Wort was the District 26-4A and Herald-Zeitung's top player on a unit that allowed just 244.2 yards per game. He led the Unicorns with 199 total tackles, 104 solos and included 11 for losses. He caused four fumbles, hauled in three interceptions, and recorded five pass breakups, three hurries, four sacks and 16 "big hits." Among the other schools courting the junior were USC, Florida, Nebraska, Miami and Maryland. (The Herald-Zeitung)

Texan picks OU over LSU, A&M: The Oklahoman

Related:
Oklahoma Sooners Recruiting

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Kelly's agent reports 4.46/40: He ran on an indoor track Wednesday and the times collected by the scouts on hand were 4.69 and 4.63 seconds. Kelly's agent, Chad Speck, reported times of 4.46 and 4.61 seconds. (Norman Transcript)

Kelly apologizes for rant: Malcolm Kelly told reporters Wednesday, "Last week I made a lot of immature decisions going off like that," Kelly said in reference to his fast-infamous rant. "In the three years that I've been here, y'all have never known me to go off like that. It was out of character for me. I take full responsibility." (Tulsa World)

Kelly's re-run isn't much better: The Oklahoman

Related Post:
Malcolm Kelly Has Another Workout For Scouts
Kelly Apologizes for Rant at Pro Day

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Malcolm Kelly second workout numbers: The following numbers were compiled from NFL personnel that attended and were posted on NFL.com by Gil Brandt.

Weight: 225.7 pounds

Vertical Leap: 31.0 inches

Broad Jump: 10 feet, 2 ½ inches

40-Yard Dash: 4.69, 4.63

Short Shuttle: 4.13, 4.22

Three-Cone Shuttle: 7.06, 6.82

Bench Press: 14 reps of 225 pounds

Kelly comes away with similar results after running again: NFL.com

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Sooners end spring practices: OU's quarterback Sam Bradford, said the offense ended spring practice on an up note, "The offense played at a much quicker tempo than we did in the Red-White Game," Bradford said. "I thought we got some good work done on the last day."

Sooners wrap up spring ball: SoonerSports.com

OU Football Notebook: The Oklahoman

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Chaisson commits to OU: Justin Chaisson phoned Bob Stoops on Monday to inform the Sooner coach of his commitment to attend the University of Oklahoma. Then, Chaisson made a bold decision. "I was going to wait and keep it low-key," said the four-star defensive end from Las Vegas, Nev. "I wanted to announce it at the U.S. Army All-American Game." Next January. Well, Chaisson barely made it 24 hours. His announcement Tuesday afternoon was so abrupt, his mother didn't even know he'd committed until a certain sports writer called her home to confirm an online report. "I talked it over with my dad and I decided to go ahead and put it out there," Chaisson said. "I didn't want to lead on the other schools recruiting me." Chaisson -- the nation's No. 27 player overall according to Rivals.com -- also held offers from California, LSU, Florida and UCLA, among others. (The Oklahoman)

Plus; Pair of prospects verbally commit: The high-profile commitment capped a big weekend for the OU defense, during which linebacker Brandon Mahoney and cornerback Steve Williams also gave their nods to the Sooners. (The Oklahoman)

OU tops Rivals.com most embarrassing non-conference games: Rivals.com writer Mike Huguenin ranks OU's season opener against UT-Chattanooga as the worst 2008 non-conference game. UT-Chattanooga against Division 1-A are 0-19 losing by an average of 34 points.

Reggie is ready: Tulsa World

Former Sooner Clayton and other caring NFL players spend offseasons at charity events: The Oklahoman

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

OU Coaches talk about the no-huddle offense: The Sooners have joined the growing horde of teams experimenting with no huddles. "It's the trend," said Sooner defensive coordinator Brent Venables. In the same way the wishbone took over college football in the 1970s, and the spread did the same almost a decade ago, the no-huddle is all the rage in the 21st century, going from fad to standard in a season or two. "I don't think offenses would do it if it weren't advantageous, to a degree," Venables said. Bob Stoops says he ordered implementation of the no-huddle for mathematical reasons. "I want to get as many at-bats as they do," Stoops said. "I don't want anyone having more snaps than we do." Wilson, OU's offensive coordinator, ran the no-huddle for four years at Northwestern. Twice, his Northwestern team led the nation in offensive plays. But I'll bet Northwestern ranked high in plays allowed, too. That's the delicate nature of the no-huddle. Even if it helps your offense, it can hurt your defense. "To me, the problems are, can you protect your defense?" Wilson said. "At Northwestern, our defenses weren't any good. We didn't really worry about helping them." That's why Wilson must be careful. For example, coaches say OU this spring practiced about 60 percent huddle, 40 percent no-huddle. (The Oklahoman)

OU confirms Malcolm Kelly to run another 40: University of Oklahoma spokesman Kenny Mossman said Kelly will run the 40-yard dash again on Wednesday, presumably on AstroTurf, after running 4.68 and 4.75 last Wednesday. After his workout, Kelly sounded off about the setup, particularly a perceived lack of loyalty to him by "certain people" on the OU football staff. He also criticized the OU training staff for misdiagnosing an injury that kept him out of the Fiesta Bowl. Kelly was upset because he and OU strength coach Jerry Schmidt agreed he would run his 40s on the AstroTurf of the Mosier Center instead of the Field Turf of the Everest Center, on which every other OU football player has worked out for NFL scouts the last two years. (Tulsa World)

OU's missing pieces hold back offense: The Oklahoman

OU Football Notebook: The Oklahoman

What Do We Really Learn From Spring Football? The Crimson and Cream Machine

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Clayton continues to impress: Converted safety Keenan Clayton continued to make his push at strongside linebacker Saturday by playing, according to Stoops, every snap of the scrimmage. "Keenan Clayton did an excellent job," the coach said. "He's turning into a really solid player." Clayton made four tackles, picked up one of OU's six sacks and created one of the Sooners' three defensive touchdowns. (Tulsa World)

Small crowd: The official attendance for yesterday's Red/White game was 23,306.

Coach Stoops impressed with corners play: Cornerback Brian Jackson and safety Sam Proctor also broke up a pair of passes and the offense’s lack of big plays. "I thought their positioning was great. I thought the corners were excellent," OU coach Bob Stoops said. "Guys like Sam Proctor had big days that really showed. They were in position all day and that’s pleasing to see as a coach." (Norman Transcript)

Injury Report: Players who missed the scrimmage: Cornerback Quinton Carter (hamstring), defensive end Auston English (shoulder), linebacker Austin Box (elbow), wide receivers Ryan Broyles (collarbone) and Adron Tennell (knee), offensive tackle Duke Robinson (ankle), safety Nic Harris (shoulder), defensive end John Williams (heel) and tailbacks DeMarco Murray (knee) and Chris Brown (knee). (The Oklahoman)

Fan calls first offensive touchdown in scrimmage: [Shae] Farmer is the Carrollton, Ga., resident who won an auction to call four plays during Saturday's scrimmage. He didn't know exactly what play he wanted to call, but Farmer knew he wanted tight end Jermaine Gresham going deep. So the call came down from the coaches' box for a play-action pass. Quarterback Sam Bradford laid the ball out perfectly for Gresham to run under it and the tight end beat two defenders to the goal line for the first offensive touchdown of the game. In fact, it was the only offensive touchdown until a pair of scores in the final three minutes of the game. Farmer and his wife, Kimberly, had no interest in attending Saturday's game, though they planned to come to Norman at some point, maybe this fall. After hearing about the SoonerSports.com auction, the two decided to post a bid, joking with each other about how funny it would be if they won. And they did. But the $2,900 he paid to call four plays was only part of the battle. They still had to get to Oklahoma, a 13-hour drive from their Georgia home. "I crossed into Oklahoma state lines for the first time (Friday)," Farmer said. "This stadium is gorgeous. It's unreal. It's a once-in-a-lifetime experience to even get over here and see something like this. You see it on TV, then you get here and it's everything you thought it could be. "It's well worth it." (The Oklahoman)

Defense impressive in spring game: SoonerSports.com

Coach for one play, that's all he needed: Norman Transcript

Stoops says experiment with no-huddle is 'still a work in progress': The Oklahoman

Bradford relives Tech game, saves touchdown with tackle: The Oklahoman

Coaches were correct -- Defense didn't miss a beat: The Oklahoman

Grading the Red-White game: The Oklahoman

Franks anchors strong OU defense: Tulsa World

No QB fuss -- Sam's the man: Tulsa World

Sooner thrill -- Calling TD play: Tulsa World

Oklahoma's defense supplies big plays in spring game: Dallas Morning News

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Top two performers as in categories as followed...

PASSING
Bradford 12-25-191, 1 TD, 3 INT
Nichol 7-15-58, 1 TD, 2 INT

RECEIVING
Madu 6-74
Gresham 2-60, 1 TD (51)

TACKLES
Holmes, 10
Proctor, 9

Tackle For Loss - YARDS
Beal, 2-6
Granger, 1-2

SACKS - YARDS
Alexander, 1-11
Bennett, 1-10

Complete stats at SoonerSports.com

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Oklahoma Sooner Football News and Notes

All Red/White tickets are $10 admission; no live television coverage is available at published time.

Limited Cameras: Only point and click cameras will be permitted in the stadium. Professional detachable long lens cameras and video cameras will NOT be permitted.

Ticket Sales: Some 16 windows, most of which will be cash only, will be open at gates 5 and 7 (north side) beginning at 9:30 a.m. Those are the only points of sale on the day of the game.

Animals: No pets or animals of any kind are allowed in the facilities, with the exception of service animals used by disabled guests.

Lifelong Sooner Fan to Live Dream: Soonersports.com

OU's Spring Game from A to Z: Soonersports.com

Why spring football has taken root: The Oklahoman

Which new starter will have the biggest impact in '08?: The Oklahoman

Clayton's been OU's best on defense; Team still getting healthy: The Oklahoman

Keys to the game: The Oklahoman

Which new starter will have the biggest impact in '08? The Oklahoman

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Former OU WR Kelly apologizes: Former Oklahoma wide receiver Malcolm Kelly went on a Tyler, Texas, radio station Thursday evening to apologize for publicly ripping the Sooner strength staff after his pro day. "I should've went to the guy I was mad at rather than put it in the media like that," Kelly said, referring to OU strength and conditioning coach Jerry Schmidt. "That was a mistake on my part." Kelly blamed the OU strength staff for changing the testing surface from AstroTurf to field turf the morning of the pro day. Schmidt said it was the more than 35 pro scouts in attendance who asked him to move the testing to field turf. "I can't say I was prepared as I should've been," Kelly said. "I hadn't ever run on that surface as far as my training goes. "But I want to make one thing clear: I'm not blaming anyone for the time that I ran." Kelly told the radio station that he was thinking about his family when he ranted about the OU staff. "This isn't just about me. I don't want my parents to work again in their lifetime," he said. "That can be the difference between running this and running that. I was thinking about my family when I said all of that stuff. "You never saw me say stuff after a game, like, why didn't they throw me the ball, I was open on every play. I never want to portray myself as a guy that complains. The other guys who were training wanted to say the same things I did, but I went out and said it." (More at The Oklahoman)

Malcolm Kelly’s Attitude Is Worse Than His 40 Time: New York Times

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Stoops to kick off OU blood drive scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday: The University of Oklahoma Athletics Department and the American Red Cross are partnering again this year to save lives through blood donation with drives scheduled for Tuesday, April 15 and Wednesday, April 16. Donation sites are located at the north end of the stadium on the second floor Athletics Department lobby and the Red Cross Bus parked north of the OU bookstore. Times will be 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. at both locations on both days. OU head football coach Bob Stoops is scheduled once again this year to be the first donor. All those coming to donate will receive a commemorative OU T-shirt, a $5 Louie's coupon and a coupon from the OU bookstore. All donors are also eligible to win memorabilia donated by the OU Athletics Department. "Each year, the Red Cross asks for our help and we are very happy to lend our support," said Annette Moran, Assistant Director of Athletic Academic Affairs and blood drive coordinator. "You never know when a family member, friend or neighbor might need the 'gift of life.' This is a chance for OU students and faculty to make a difference." This is the fourth year for the OU Athletics Department/Red Cross blood drive. The Red Cross reports increased efforts to educate high school and college students on the importance of becoming lifetime blood donors. To donate blood you must be 17 years of age, weigh at least 110 pounds and be in good health. The Red Cross reminds those coming to donate to bring a photo ID, such as a Red Cross donor card, OU student ID or driver's license. (SoonerSports PR)

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

OU Red-White game tickets available through today: This is the last week to purchase half-price tickets for this Saturday's Red/White Spring Game. Through Friday, tickets are $5 each. On game day, that price doubles to $10. Kickoff for the Red/White Game is 1 p.m. Saturday. Fans may purchase tickets online, in person at the OU Athletics Ticket Office or by phone at (405) 325-2424 or toll-free at (800) 456-4668. Children 5 and under are admitted free of charge, as are all OU students with a valid student ID. No television broadcast is scheduled this year

DeMarco Murray injury "getting a lot better": He says he's stronger, thicker and more muscled -- at least from the waist up. His legs are still unable to carry a full workload. "I've got another couple months before I can really start sprinting hard, hard," he said. "But it's getting a lot better. I don't feel any pain in my knee, so rehab's going great for me so far." (Tulsa World)

Related Post:
DeMarco Murray Expected Back in June

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Malcolm Kelly to hold another pro work out: KTBB Sports has learned OU wide receiver Malcolm Kelly will hold another workout on Sunday, April 13th, in Atlanta, under the direction of former Green Bay Packers receiver Boyd Dowler. Apparently Pro Scouts will not be able to attend, but Dowler will be sending the video and information to all 32 NFL teams and various media outlets. (KTBB.com)

Previous Post:
Stoops Calls Malcolm Kelly's Comments Not Fair
Malcolm Kelly Upset With OU After Pro Day
Kelly and Smith Work Out Numbers
Agent: Malcolm Kelly is 100 percent healthy

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Carl Albert's David Oku cut OU from potential schools: Carl Albert running back David Oku has cut several teams, including Oklahoma, from the list of schools he is considering. The junior lists USC, Ohio State, Florida State, Illinois, Tennessee and Michigan as his favorites. West Virginia, Oklahoma, Notre Dame and LSU were among the teams cut from the list. "God and my mom helped me to this decision," Oku said. "I feel like cutting them (OU) is what is best for me right now." Asked if things might have been different had the Sooners approached him in another way, Oku said: "Yeah, I used to see the love (former Carl Albert and OU standout) J.D. (Runnels) got when he came back, and that made me kind of like OU, but they were kind of lax, like ‘we're going to hold out'... things might have been different if they had a different approach." That rocky beginning, combined with the desire to get out of the state, led Oku to officially remove Oklahoma from his list of suitors. (The Oklahoman)

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Stoops responds to Kelly's Pro Day comments: Kelly accused OU of "misdiagnosing" a December thigh injury, which kept him from participating in the Fiesta Bowl and from training for the NFL Draft until last month. Kelly said he was told by OU doctors that he had a deep thigh bruise, though a February MRI revealed he had suffered a partial quadriceps tear. Sooner coach Bob Stoops said Kelly never practiced after suffering the thigh injury and took issue with Kelly's accusations that OU's doctors erred. "I don't think that is fair," Stoops said. "A lot of deep tissue injuries take a while to figure out. Our doctors do as good a job as anybody in the country. Regardless of what his injury was, misdiagnosed or not, it was a deep tissue injury. He never played. It isn't like he played a game and re-hurt it. He would not have done anything different than he's done, which is rest it for a long period of time, which he did, and rehab it." Stoops said Kelly's assertion that he would've been able to play had the tear been found earlier is off-base. "He didn't do anything the whole time before we went to the Fiesta Bowl. He didn't practice once," Stoops said. "He didn't practice at the Fiesta Bowl, even though we tried to warm him up. It's not realistic for that injury to heal that fast." Wednesday, OU spokesman Kenny Mossman conferred with members of the Sooner training staff, who said that Kelly was initially diagnosed with a bruise, but that the injury was later upgraded to a strain within 48 hours. (More at The Oklahoman)

Related Post: Malcolm Kelly Upset With OU After Pro Day

Malcolm Kelly not happy with Pro Day conditions: NewsOK.com TV (Video)

Speed an issue for Kelly, Smith: Norman Transcript

Kelly uses pro day to vent anger: Tulsa World

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Kelly on his pro day work out: [Malcolm] Kelly, who ran the 40-yard dash in 4.68 seconds, said he wasn't told by the OU strength staff until this morning that the location of the pro day had been moved from Astroturf in the Mosier Center to field turf inside the Everest Indoor Training Center. "I had everything set up for where I wanted to do it at," Kelly said. "I get up here this morning and it's a whole different deal. This is my life. It's got to do with me and my family. This is what I do, play football, and I'm supposed to run as fast as I can. I was slipping all over the place during my drill work. I can't say I'm pleased with anything today. "People want to say surface is surface, but it's a lot more to it than that," Kelly said. "You have to think about how much ground time you have running on this mushy surface here and how much ground time you have on Astroturf. "Just a little bit of time could mean a whole lot of draft money." (The Oklahoman)

Related Post:
Kelly and Smith Work Out Numbers

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

All times are unofficial.. these are preliminary numbers.

Malcolm Kelly's 40:
1) 4.77 2) 4.75

Reggie Smith's 40:
1) 4.67 2) 4.65

NFL.com reports...
Malcolm Kelly
40: 1) 4.75 2) 4.68
Vertical: 32 in.
Long Jump: 9'9
Short Shuttle: 4.24
Cone Drill: 7.0

Joe Jon Finely:
40: 1) 4.85 2) 4.86
Vertical: 311/2 in.
Long Jump: 9'9
Short Shuttle: 4.16
Cone Drill: 7.11

Reggie Smith
40: 1) 4.65 2) 4.61
Vertical: 39 1/2 in.
Long Jump: 10'9
Short Shuttle: 4.03
Cone Drill: 6.7

Marcus Walker
40: 1) 4.65 2) 4.62
Vertical: 37
Long Jump: 10'1
Short Shuttle: 4.10
Cone Drill: 6.9

UPDATED

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

OU Red/White spring game scoring system: OU has set the scoring system and squad breakdown for Saturday’s Red/White Spring Game. The offense will wear red during the game and the defense will be white, but teams are still being set. One team will feature the first-team offense and the second-team defense, while the other will be comprised of the first-team defense and second-team offense. In the scoring system that has been devised both the offensive and defensive units will have the ability to score. The offense will receive one point for a first down, one point for a point after touchdown, two points for any play exceeding 30 yards, three points for a field goal and six points for a touchdown. The defense will be awarded one point for any stop, two points for holding the offense to three plays and a punt on the first set of downs in a possession, two points for a fourth-down stop, three points for a turnover and nine points for a touchdown. The clock will be set for four, 15-minute quarters. (Norman Transcript)

Scoring system available to download here.

Former Sooners expected at Red-White game: The Oklahoman

Nichol -- Leaving no option: Tulsa World

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Kelly, Smith among others participating in pro work out: Today at OU's Everest Indoor Training Center in his first and only workout before NFL scouts, Kelly will have the opportunity to silence the questions about his health for good. "I just have to show them with my drills, my change of direction, that I have no knee problems," said Kelly, speaking publicly for the first time about the rumors, which likely started with Kelly tearing his anterior cruciate ligament in junior high and later having arthroscopic knee surgery after his sophomore season at OU. "I've been working so that tomorrow morning I can come out here and prove them wrong and shut everybody up. I guarantee they won't be saying I have knee problems (anymore)." Former Sooner defensive back Reggie Smith, who's been recovering from a broken big toe, will also be working out in front of scouts for the first time. (The Oklahoman) Joe Jon Finley and Allen Patrick will also participate in today's work out.

Results will be posted later this afternoon. (UPDATED)

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Kelly and Smith Work Out Numbers

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Recruit narrows schools down to five: Justin Chaisson, the No. 27-rated recruit in the nation according to Rivals.com, said he expects OU to be among his final five schools. The defensive end from Bishop Gorman High School in Las Vegas visited OU over the weekend and left after Saturday's scrimmage. He said he and his family enjoyed the trip. "I'm not sure yet, but it will probably be Oklahoma, Florida, LSU, UCLA and Cal," Chaisson said. "That's probably going to be the five." Chaisson hasn't set a timetable for making a commitment. Current Sooners Ryan Reynolds and DeMarco Murray attended the same high school as Chaisson. David White, who was Bishop Gorman's head coach two years ago, is now a graduate assistant with OU. (The Oklahoman)

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Limited editions posters available: Sooner fans attending the 2008 Red/White Game on Saturday have an opportunity to pick up a limited edition poster celebrating Oklahoma's championship run in the 2000s. Rings and trophies accompany six team photos on the poster honoring Oklahoma's five Big 12 Conference titles and the 2000 National Championship. On Saturday, kiosks located inside the Gaylord Family - Oklahoma Memorial Stadium lower concourse will provide a limited number of the free posters in addition to 2008 OU football schedule magnets. Kickoff for the Red/White Game is set for 1 p.m., and the contest will not be televised or webcast. The only place to see the game will be from a seat at the stadium. This is the last week to purchase half-price tickets. Through Friday, tickets are $5 each. On game day, that price doubles to $10. (SoonerSports PR)

Lofton spends time at The Children's Center: Former OU linebacker Curtis Lofton hasn't been spending all his time preparing for the NFL since declaring for the draft back in January. Last week, Lofton visited The Children's Center in Bethany and met with several of the kids staying there. "This was really emotional, seeing all these little kids and how they are going through so many things,” Lofton said. "I'll complain about being tired or about my back hurting, but this puts it all into perspective.” (The Oklahoman)

Solid spring means Halzle should be Sooners' No. 2 quarterback: The Oklahoman

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

University of Oklahoma Football Second Scrimmage stats and quotes at SoonerSports.com

Box may return next weekend: Defensive coordinator Brent Venables said Box might return to noncontact work next week. Venables also said it was important for Reynolds to be back. "He's not 100 percent," Venables said, "but he needs to be out there to get some of the positioning down as much as anything, get a presence about him." (Tulsa World)

Recruits visit Norman: Centennial Frisco (Texas) High School quarterback Ryan Mossakowski was one of several blue-chip recruits in attendance. Mossakowski, the No. 53-ranked player in the nation according to Rivals.com, was accompanied at the scrimmage by Las Vegas defensive end Justin Chaisson, who is the No. 27-rated prospect in the country. Four-star cornerback Gabe Lynn of Jenks saw his second OU scrimmage. He was in Norman last weekend as well. Linebacker Tom Wort of New Braunfels, Texas, and tight end Greg Brown of Bixby were also in attendance Saturday. (The Oklahoman)

Bradford on the no huddle: Telling the Tulsa World "Today was about as game-like as we've had with the no-huddle as far as the referees and the clock and everything going," Bradford said. "I think we did move the ball pretty well. We did have some penalties that hurt us, but I thought our tempo was good today and guys for the most part, we were on the same page."

For OU walk-ons, spring is the time to shine: The Oklahoman

At last, Sooner offense springs to life: The Oklahoman

Replacing Hartley: The Oklahoman

Q&A -- Fullback Matt Clapp: The Oklahoman

Sooners a little rusty in second scrimmage: Norman Transcript

Flags fly fast in Norman: Tulsa World

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Nic Harris on Lott Watch List: Oklahoma's Nic Harris is among 42 of the nation's top collegiate defensive players who have been named to the 2008 Lott Trophy Watch List, which was announced Friday. Harris is a 6-3, 232-pound senior defensive back, who was on the Lott Watch List a year ago. He recorded 74 tackles, including 9.5 for losses and had a pair of interceptions last season. There are seven repeat nominees for the award, including James Laurinaitis of Ohio State, a finalist last year. The other players nominated for a second straight year are Harris, Jonathan Casillas of Wisconsin, Brian Cushing of USC, Maurice Crum Jr. of Notre Dame, Darryl Richard of Georgia Tech and Zack Follett of Cal. Thirty-five different schools are represented on the Watch List. (SoonerSports PR)

The life of a Sooner defensive end: Norman Transcript

OU says it isn't backed into a corner: Tulsa World

Blue-chip back Johnson has shot at encore: The Oklahoman

Sooner D-Line Should Dominate: Crimson and Crime Machine

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Johnson returns to spring practice: Offensive coordinator Kevin Wilson said wide receiver Manuel Johnson returned Thursday, but offensive lineman Duke Robinson isn't expected to be back on the field until next week. (Norman Transcript)

Living 'a Dream Come True': RezNet

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

OU's Beal steps into vital D-line role: The Oklahoman

Madu has spring in his step: Norman Transcript

Ranking the BCS coaches: Big 12 has big potential: SportingNews

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Lawton MacArthur prospect Javon Harris commits to OU: Much like the 2007 season a player from Lawton MacArthur High went from a virtual unknown to an Oklahoma Sooner commitment overnight. As reported yesterday Javon Harris did indeed pick up an official offer from the Sooners this afternoon and then he committed on the spot. (SoonersIllustrated) Javon Harris, safety 6'0/190lbs 4.5

Related:
Oklahoma Sooners Recruiting Page

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

OU coaching staff pleased with Clayton progression: On Saturday, in Oklahoma's first open scrimmage of spring practice, [Keenan] Clayton displayed an array of skills as the Sooners' new strong-side linebacker, and the onetime strong safety looked like a natural. "Today was a really good day," said linebackers coach and defensive coordinator Brent Venables. "I'm so happy for him, because I think from a positive standpoint, he needed that positive kind of day, where you can get a lot of sugar. We'll find the things we can get better at, but he's a guy that needs the confidence, and today was a good day." OU's strong-side linebacker has often been an either-or position: he's either on the field in running-down situations, or he's off the field in passing-down situations. Clayton may be the rare player who can bridge the gap and be an every-down performer. "He's coming along like we hoped he would," head coach Bob Stoops said. "He still has a ways to go, but he's showing great signs. It's kind of what I say all the time, it just takes some guys a little longer to really get comfortable. He's an athletic, solid player that's starting to show that and make the kind of plays we expect him to make."(Tulsa World)

EMQB Interview: D.J. Wolfe: Every Morning Quarterback Blog

Former football star follows his heart: Norman Transcript

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Sooners add verbal commitment WR Eric Ward: Rider wide receiver Eric Ward verbally committed Saturday to play football for the University of Oklahoma. The junior still has his senior season to play for the Raiders and he would join the Sooners in the fall of 2009. "The timing was right, and when I went there it felt like home," Ward said of his decision to commit early. "And it's not too far away from home, so my family and friends can still come see me play." Ward, a 6-1, 195-pounder, is a two-year starter at wide receiver for the Raiders where he has 77 catches for 1,390 yards and 19 touchdowns while rushing for 206 yards on 28 carries and five touchdowns. He also has a kick return for a touchdown. He helped lead the Raiders to a 12-win season in 2007 and to the Region I-4A championship game where they fell to Everman 21-19. His numbers for the 2007 season were 55 catches for 1,082 yards and 15 touchdowns; 14 rushes for 108 yards and four scores; and a kick return for a touchdown. (Times Record News)

Previous Post:
Sooners Add '09 Verbal Commitment

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Oklahoma Sooners Recruiting Page

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Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Box expected out remainder of spring football: Enid's Austin Box is expected to miss the rest of Oklahoma's spring football practice with a sprained elbow. "That was the likely scenario, according to coach (Bob) Stoops," said OU sports information director Kenny Mossman. Box, who redshirted as a true freshman, was starting at linebacker before his injury. He did not play in the Sooners' first major scrimmage Saturday. Mossman said he didn't know when the injury occured. Box dislocated the same left elbow during his senior season at Enid. Box could not be reached for comment Monday night. (The Enid News & Eagle)

Agent clears up rumors about Malcolm Kelly's health: Agent Chad Speck sent a letter to all 32 NFL teams Monday, along with a letter from the doctor who has been treating Kelly, to let them know that the receiver projected as a possible first-round draft pick is healthy. The injury first was diagnosed as a deep thigh bruise, but Kelly actually had a small quadriceps tear. The agent also pointed out that Dr. Michael Hatrak of Alpharetta, Ga., also found "all other structures assessed within normal limits." Kelly tore an ACL in junior high and had arthroscopic knee surgery during his sophomore year at Oklahoma. "The intent of the letter is certainly to end speculation on Malcolm's health status," Speck said. "He is 100 percent healthy and as Dr. Hatrak states, has no further risk of injury." "The rumors that are currently circulating regarding his knees are irresponsible and untrue!" Speck wrote to NFL general managers and scouts. (The Oklahoman)

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