November 30, 2008

Bradford injures non-throwing hand

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Bradford suffers torn ligaments in left hand: Oklahoma coach Bob Stoops said that sophomore quarterback Sam Bradford has some torn ligaments in his left (non-throwing) hand and will have to have surgery on the hand after the Big 12 championship game Saturday against Missouri in Kansas City. Stoops said Bradford would be fine to play against Missouri but would likely have to wear a soft cast on his left hand. (Dallas Morning News)

Also: Box likely out 3-4 weeks: Stoops said that starting middle linebacker Austin Box will miss three to four weeks with a similar knee sprain that starting defensive end Auston English is recovering from now. Box was injured in OU's win Saturday night at Oklahoma State. (Dallas Morning News)

Big 12 Championship Ticket Information

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Big 12 Championship tickets available now: Tickets for the Dr. Pepper Big 12 Championship are available immediately for purchase online (SoonerSports.com). The OU Athletics Ticket office will also have limited phone sales from 5:00-7:00 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 30 by calling (800) 456-GoOU or (405) 325-2424. Phone sales will resume at 8:00 a.m., on Monday, Dec. 1. All tickets are $75 each. Orders will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis and tickets are subject to availability. All orders prior to 11:00 a.m. Monday will be sent overnight via UPS. Those interested in purchasing tickets are encouraged to do so early as heavy demand is expected. The Sooners will play Big 12 North champion Missouri on Saturday, Dec. 6 at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Mo. Kickoff is set for 7:00 p.m. (SoonerSports PR)

Related: Arrowhead Stadium Seating Chart

Oklahoma jumps Texas in BCS Standings

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Oklahoma No. 2 in BCS Standings; Big 12 Championship bound:
1. Alabama .971
2. Oklahoma .935
3. Texas .922
4. Florida .885
5. USC .808
6. Utah .784
7. Texas Tech .781
8. Penn State .737
9. Boise State .703
10. Ohio State .634

Full BCS Standings at FOXSports.com

Sooners No. 4 in AP & No. 2 in Coaches Poll

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

AP Top 10 with Big 12 teams
(First Place Votes) Points
1 Alabama (62) 1620
2 Florida (3) 1516
3 Texas 1488
4 Oklahoma 1480
5 Southern California 1355
6 Penn State 1257
7 Utah 1216
8 Texas Tech 1197
9 Boise State 1103
10 Ohio State 1069
14 Oklahoma State 798
19 Missouri 479

USA Today's Coaches Poll
1 Alabama (58) 1521
2 Oklahoma (2) 1397
3 Texas 1396
4 Florida (1) 1385
5 Southern California 1298
6 Penn State 1176
7 Utah 1153
8 Texas Tech 1116
9 Boise State 1044
10 Ohio State 999
15 Oklahoma State 613
17 Missouri 470

Harris Poll
1 Alabama (107) 2815
2 Florida (4) 2619
3 Texas (1) 2575
4 Oklahoma 2569
5 Southern California 2378
6 Penn State 2177
7 Utah (1) 2111
8 Texas Tech 2090
9 Boise State 1937
10 Ohio State 1856
14 Oklahoma State 1217
18 Missouri 896

Full top 25 at ESPN.com

Last Week...

Sooners roll past Cowboys

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Sooners defeat Cowboys 64-41: Now it's up to voters and computers. Sam Bradford threw for 370 yards and four touchdowns, and No. 3 Oklahoma based its case for a BCS bump on its high-powered offense, outscoring No. 11 Oklahoma State 61-41 Saturday night in the highest-scoring Bedlam rivalry game in the century-old series.Needing to make up a minuscule eight-thousandths of a point to second-place Texas in the Bowl Championship Series standings to earn a spot in next week's Big 12 championship game, the Sooners (11-1, 7-1) relied on the Heisman-caliber arm of Bradford.He completed 30 of 44 passes and also scored on a 1-yard touchdown run, leading Oklahoma to its fourth straight 60-point game. (AP)

November 29, 2008

Bedlam Predictions

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Lee Corso, College GameDay: Corso picked Oklahoma over Oklahoma State.

Tim Griffin, ESPN.com: The Sooners will know what they need to do before Saturday's game in Stillwater. And I'm guessing they will take care of business against a tough foe... Oklahoma 35, Oklahoma State 33

More at ESPN.com

CFN.com: One of two things will happen. Oklahoma will prove it’s a national title-caliber powerhouse by blowing through Stillwater with a 30+ point win and yet another nuclear offensive display, or the team will come in overconfident... Oklahoma State 45, Texas 42

More at CFN.com

Campus Confidential: Abramson: Normally, the cynic in my picks the Cowboys here because I like to see chaos at the end of the year. However, I can't do that because Oklahoma is playing some of the best football in the country. We could have another game where we approach 100 total points.... Oklahoma 45, Oklahoma State 35

Rose: You know there's going to be an upset this week. I don't think it will be Florida or Alabama. How about Oklahoma? Well, the Sooners looked unstoppable last week in shredding Texas Tech, 65-21... Oklahoma 44, Oklahoma State 30

More at Campus Confidential

Bleacher Report: This could be the scene in Stillwater Saturday. Oklahoma State could very well beat Oklahoma. In doing so, Oklahoma will be eliminated from national title contention... Oklahoma State 31, Oklahoma 28.

More at Bleacher Report

The Olympian: Stillwater has been a fright house for Sooners during Bob Stoops era, losing twice and with no victory greater than six points... Oklahoma 41, Oklahoma State 38

More at The Olympian

The Birmingham News: The style points for Texas won't matter because the Sooners, now running the ball well, will make a statement in Stillwater... Oklahoma 42, Oklahoma State 24

More at Al.com

CBS Sportsline.com: Four of the five sportsline.com writers picked Oklahoma over Oklahoma State.

AccuScore.com: Predicts Oklahoma 42, Oklahoma State 33

More at AccuScore.com

Game Day: OU-OSU Articles and Notes

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Sooners end regular season at OSU: SoonerSports.com

Sooners have been great on the road, but this is different: Norman Transcript

Pokes have history of playing Stoops tough: Norman Transcript

Victory should be enough: Norman Transcript

Sooners have gotten better every week since Cotton Bowl loss: Norman Transcript

The Stillwater factor: Tulsa World

OU's fate -- A furious finish vs. early loss: Tulsa World

OU cornerback has momentum: Tulsa World

OU-OSU Storylines: Tulsa World

Gameday tips: Tulsa World

OU might need style points against OSU: The Oklahoman

The best offense ever?: The Oklahoman

OU Football Blitz Package: The Oklahoman

OSU gets chance for redemption: The Oklahoman

Cowboys gladly embrace playing the spoiler's role: The Oklahoman

Texas Tech pulling for OSU: The Oklahoman

Oklahoma may need more than just a win: New York Times

What must Oklahoma do?: New York Times

Oklahoma, Tech seek share of South title: Dallas Morning News

Sooners running back duo could be nation's best: Star-Telegram

Bradford gains from losses: The News & Observer

Is it OSU's turn to pull off Big 12 upset?: Fox Sports

November 28, 2008

Tech fans buy flyover banner for Bedlam

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Tech fans buy flyover banner to remind Texas about loss: Earlier this week, Texas fans bought a flyover that will carry a banner with the inscription "45-35" -- the score of Texas; victory over Oklahoma on Oct. 11 -- during ESPN College GameDay's live telecast before the Bedlam game. In reaction, Texas Tech fans have decided to buy their own flyover. According to Tech alum Shane Walker, a group of about 20 Red Raider fans have arranged for a pilot to fly over GameDay carrying the banner "www.39-33.com," which signifies the score of Tech's Nov. 1 victory over Texas. "It's a day Longhorn fans have forgotten," said Walker, who said he contributed $500 to the cause. "We realize we got thumped by OU, and if OU wins tomorrow, we're done in the national championship race. "But we want to go to a BCS bowl. Based on Texas' head-to-head argument, we should get the BCS bowl over them." (The Oklahoman)

Sooner linebackers on the rise: Norman Transcript

Sooner (and Cowboy) born: Tulsa World

Not your usual Bedlam game: Tulsa World

Sooners could be on run in Bedlam: Tulsa World

OU Notebook: Tulsa World

Murray has returned to old self: The Oklahoman

By the numbers: The Oklahoman

Sooners' keys to the game: The Oklahoman

Bedlam Blitz: The Oklahoman

OU needs Bedlam to reach its goals: The Oklahoman

Five things to watch at Bedlam: The Oklahoman

Heisman race hot at Bedlam: The Oklahoman

Bedlam attire ready for fan’s to buy: The Oklahoman

Defense is Oklahoma's key to winning: Dallas Morning News

Oklahoma DT McCoy an inspiration: Dallas Morning News

‘Orange Power’ meets ‘Sooner Spirit’ in Saturday’s high-stakes Bedlam game: Daily 'Collegian

Not much lobbying needed after dominant Texas victory: ESPN.com

November 27, 2008

(11/27) OU Football Articles and Notes

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Gresham named Tight End of the Week: Jermaine Gresham was named the John Mackey Tight End of the Week for the second time this season. Gresham caught five passes for 95 yards and a touchdown in OU's 65-21 win over Texas Tech. (The Oklahoman)

More honors: Sam Bradford and running back DeMarco Murray were named to the ESPN The Magazine Academic All-American team on Wednesday. Bradford carries a 3.95 GPA in finance, while Murray has a 3.31 in communications. Both were named to the second team. Also, OU had a 13th player named to the Big 12 Conference All-Academic team in Kyle Johnson, a senior from Konawa. (Tulsa World) Find more from earlier this week here and here.

McCoy -- Bedlam, fans and thanks: SoonerSports.com

Texas fans book flyover with OU score during Bedlam: The Oklahoman

Stadium format raucos fans will make things loud Saturday in Stillwater: The Oklahoman

OSU not OU's only obstacle to Big 12 Championship: The Oklahoman

In the tiebreaker triangle, Longhorns have the edge: The Oklahoman

Pressure is on Texas tonight: The Oklahoman

Cowboys know the drill: The Oklahoman

Stoops won't get sucked into OSU ticket controversy: Tulsa World

Bradford completes OSU's QB qauntlet: Tulsa World

Sooner duo runs over foes: Tulsa World

Up close with Gerald McCoy: Tulsa World

McCoy a born leader: Norman Transcript

Defense is Oklahoma's key to winning: Dallas Morning News

Maturing LBs become strength for No. 3 Oklahoma: Dallas Morning News

Texas and Oklahoma decided who was best on Oct. 11: Star-Telegram

Bradford, Murray smart guys: Star-Telegram

Is it OSU's turn to pull off a Big 12 upset? FOX Sports

BCS is about to become a Texas-sized mess: NBC Sports

Big 12 Picks -- Sooners will win a close one in Stillwater: ESPN.com

November 26, 2008

Sooners Earn Weekly Honors

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Oklahoma named team of the week: OU's victory over Tech earned the Sooners this week's Fiesta Bowl national team of the week honors, awarded by the Football Writers Association of America. It was the most points allowed by a Texas Tech team and the second-largest margin of victory against a team ranked No. 2 in the AP poll. The FWAA has awarded a team of the week since 2002. (Tulsa World)

Twelve Sooners earn Academic Honors: Twelve Oklahoma players, including six first-team selections, were announced Tuesday as part of the Big 12 Conference's All-Academic Team. The Big 12 Conference has named 137 student-athletes to the 2008 Academic All-Big 12 Football Team, the league office announced. Nominated by each institution's director of student-athlete support services and its media relations offices, the football academic all-league squad consisted of 91 first team members combined with 46 on the second team. (SoonerSports PR)

First Team
Sam Bradford, So., Finance, Oklahoma City, Okla.
Derek Gove, Sr., Communications, Carrollton, Texas
Travis Lewis, Fr., Undeclared, San Antonio, Texas
DeMarco Murray, So., Communications, Las Vegas, Nev.
Sam Proctor, Fr., Undeclared, Pearland, Texas
Jimmy Stevens, Fr., Undeclared, Oklahoma City, Okla.

Second Team
Ryan Broyles, Fr., Undeclared, Norman, Okla.
Brandon Caleb So., General Management, Richmond, Va.
Auston English, Jr., Soc. Sci./Org. Studies, Canadian, Texas
Desmond Jackson, Fr., Undeclared, Seguin, Texas
Kyle Johnson, Sr., Petroleum Engineering, Konawa, Okla.
Adrian Taylor, So., Sociology, Mansfield, Texas
Carter Whitson, Jr., Science Education, Shawnee, Oklahoma

Murray named All-American Player of the Week: DeMarco Murray was named U.S. Army All-American College Player of the Week. Murray rushed for 125 yards and two TDs and caught four passes for 71 yards in OU's 65-21 win over Texas Tech. The award honors an alumnus of the U.S. Army All-American Bowl who had the top performance of a given week. Murray played for the 2007 U.S. Army All-American Bowl West Team. (Tulsa World)

OU's Davis out for Bedlam: Senior defensive end Alan Davis is expected to miss Saturday’s game because of a knee sprain, Stoops said this week. Davis and English, who is also out this week, both missed the Tech game with sprained knees. (The Oklahoman)

Sooners up for honors: Norman Transcript

Don't sleep on Oklahoma State: The Oklahoma Daily

Stoops agrees with Texas' Brown: Tulsa World

Box living out his dream as a Sooner linebacker: Tulsa World

It's simple ... Sooners run, Sooners win: Tulsa World

Listen to Bob Stoops discuss Bedlam game: Tulsa World

Stoops addresses OSU, DeMarco Murray, Big 12 title chances: The Oklahoman

Oklahoma highways ready for Bedlam traffic: The Oklahoman

Bradford needs big finish: The Oklahoman

Happy campers get ready for Bedlam: The Oklahoman

Bedlam could have many empty seats: Dallas Morning News

Oklahoma cornerback Franks looking to be even better this week: Star-Telegram

OU's Bradford the frontrunner in latest Heisman Polls

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Bradford No. 1 in ESPN Heisman Watch:
(1st place votes) total votes
Sam Bradford, QB, Oklahoma (8) 68
Colt McCoy, QB, Texas (7) 64
Tim Tebow, QB, Florida 37
Graham Harrell, QB, Texas Tech 34
Michael Crabtree, WR, Texas Tech 9

Complete ranking at ESPN.com

Bradford No. 1 in Scripps Howard Heisman Trophy poll:
(1st place votes) total votes
1. Sam Bradford, QB, Oklahoma, (5) 42
2. Colt McCoy, QB, Texas, (3) 41
3. Graham Harrell, QB, Texas Tech, (1) 27
4. Tim Tebow, QB, Florida, (1) 23
5. Daryll Clark, QB, Penn State, 4
5. (tie) Chase Daniel, QB, Missouri, 4

Complete ranking at Gainsville.com

Bradford No. 1 in HeismanPundit.com/Orlando Sentinel poll:
(1st place votes) total votes
1. Sam Bradford, 45 (6)
2. Colt McCoy, 42 (4)
3. Tim Tebow, 27
4. Graham Harrell, 24
5. Shonn Greene, 7

More at the Orlando Sentinel

November 25, 2008

English out for Bedlam

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Auston English expected to miss Bedlam: A fractured ankle kept the Oklahoma defensive end from last year's 49-17 victory over Oklahoma State. This time, the problem is a sprained left knee suffered against Nebraska Nov. 1. "He's progressing well, but we don't expect him to play this week," OU coach Bob Stoops said during the Big 12 teleconference Monday morning. Asked if English could return for the Big 12 championship Dec. 6, should the Sooners win in Stillwater Saturday night and then win a three-way Big 12 South tiebreaker via BCS ranking, Stoops said: "Possibly. I'm sure they'll evaluate him a little later in the week. He's getting better, but I couldn't tell you about next week." (Tulsa World)

Gresham Mackey Award finalist: Oklahoma's Jermaine Gresham was today announced as one of three finalists for the John Mackey Award, which is presented annually to the top tight end in college football. Gresham leads the Big 12, which produced all three finalists, in touchdown receptions by tight ends with 10. He has 41 grabs for 648 yards, an average of 15.8 per catch, a figure that also leads the conference. The junior from Ardmore, Okla., also has been a key component in Oklahoma's potent rushing attack by averaging 5.7 knockdown blocks per game. The Sooners rank No. 3 nationally in total offense and No. 20 in rushing offense. Gresham is trying to become the first Sooner to win the award. Trent Smith was a finalist for the Mackey in 2001. (SoonerSports PR)

Robinson, Bradford going to Disney: SoonerSports.com

Bedlam single-game sales ticket policy limits supply, drives up value: The Oklahoman

Stoops declines coaches poll vote: The Oklahoman

Lobbying begins on Sooner, Texas fronts: The Oklahoman

Breaking ties could vary: The Oklahoman

Cowboys spent little time watching Sooners: The Oklahoman

Brown favors playoff, but commissioner disagrees: Tulsa World

Tech still leads OU in two computer rankings: Tulsa World

Bedlam rankings and rivalry: Tulsa World

OU Football Notebook: Tulsa World

In recognition of OU's Gundy: Tulsa World

Sooners up for honors: Norman Transcript

Oklahoma State's Hunter expected to play against Oklahoma: Dallas Morning News

Oklahoma DEs English, Davis expected to be out: Dallas Morning News

Mack Brown in favor of eight-team playoff: Star-Telegram

SEC Champ, Oklahoma to play for BCS title: Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Video -- Stoops on the Sooners: ESPN.com

November 24, 2008

Bradford, Lewis earn Big 12 weekly honors

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Pair of Sooners earn Big 12 honors: Oklahoma's Sam Bradford and Travis Lewis swept the Big 12 Football Player of the Week honors for their efforts in the Sooners' win over Texas Tech last Saturday. Bradford won the offensive award after completing 14-of-19 passes for 306 yards with four touchdowns and no interceptions. Bradford's scoring strikes went to four different receivers and covered distances of 19, 28, 66 and 26 yards. The sophomore also rushed five times for 18 yards to account for 324 yards of total offense. Bradford has thrown four or more touchdowns in seven games this season including the last three in a row. Lewis, a redshirt freshman linebacker, compiled a game-high 13 tackles, one for loss, one pass deflection and one pass interception, which he turned 47 yards to set up the Texas Tech one. OU's DeMarco Murray ran in for a touchdown on the next play. (SoonerSports PR)

Brody Eldridge back: Saturday, the Sooners pounded Tech for 299 yards on the ground. Part of the reason for that was the return of tight end Brody Eldridge, who’s been out with an ankle injury the last month. "Brody is a physical presence in our front," Bob Stoops said. "On those perimeter runs, he's always a major factor in them." (The Oklahoman)

Sooners have edge in BCS standings: The Oklahoman

OU-Texas for the title a possibility: The Oklahoman

Sooners are oh, so close: Norman Transcript

OU's stock rises: Tulsa World

GameDay returns to Stillwater: Tulsa World

Offense must stay strong: Tulsa World

OU Notebook: Tulsa World

Cowboys must put up big points: Tulsa World

Oklahoma State will have a say in Big 12 race: Dallas Morning News

Oklahoma beats Tech, but Texas wins in BCS standings: Dallas Morning News

Only politics can help Oklahoma overtake Texas: Star-Telegram

Sooners, Gators gain ground but have work left: FOXSports.com

OU, Texas and Texas Tech all have solid cases to make if they finish tied: NBC Sports

UT leads No. 3 Oklahoma by a thin margin: Austin American-Statesman

Texas wins battle, but Oklahoma might win war: Austin American-Statesman

Big 12 power rankings: Sooners soar to the top: ESPN.com

Longhorns, Sooners hooked up in tight BCS battle: ESPN.com

What we learned in the Big 12, Week 13: ESPN.com

November 23, 2008

College GameDay at Bedlam

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

ESPN College GameDay to broadcast live from Stillwater: It became official late Sunday morning that ESPN College Football Gameday will broadcast its show from outside Boone Pickens Stadium Saturday before the Oklahoma State-Oklahoma game. GameDay, hosted by Chris Fowler, Kirk Herbstreit, Lee Corso and Desmond Howard, will set up on the library lawn for shows on Friday and Saturday. (The Oklahoman)

Sooners No. 3 in BCS Standings

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

BCS Standings
1. Alabama .987
2. Texas .921
3. Oklahoma .912
4. Florida .875
5. USC .797
6. Utah .786
7. Texas Tech .779
8. Penn State .752
9. Boise State .658
10. Ohio State .621
11. Georgia .602
12. Oklahoma State .570

Full BCS Standings at FOXSports.com

Related: Sooners No. 3 in AP & No. 2 in Coaches Poll

Sooners No. 3 in AP & No. 2 in Coaches Poll

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

AP Top 10 with Big 12 teams
(First Place Votes) Points
1 Alabama (63) 1622
2 Florida (2) 1512
3 Oklahoma 1486
4 Texas 1482
5 Southern California 1352
6 Penn State 1238
7 Texas Tech 1212
8 Utah 1206
9 Boise State 1064
10 Ohio State 1043
11 Oklahoma State 997
12 Missouri 917

USA Today's Coaches Poll
1 Alabama (56) 1518
2 Oklahoma (4) 1412
3 Florida (1) 1401
4 Texas 1370
5 Southern California 1288
6 Penn State 1157
7 Utah 1153
8 Texas Tech 1073
9 Boise State 1033
10 Ohio State 994
11 Missouri 896
12 Oklahoma State 858

Full top 25 at ESPN.com

Last Week...

OU vs. Texas Tech: Post Game Articles and Notes

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Record points: The Sooners eclipsed the 50-point plateau for the eighth time this season and scored 40 or more for the ninth time in 2008. Both numbers marked school records. (SoonerSports Statistics)

Tech's worst defeat since '02: Texas Tech's 44-point defeat was its worst since a 60-15 loss to No. 4 Oklahoma on Nov. 23, 2002. (SoonerSports Statistics)

Big Game Blowout: Norman Transcript

Sooners do their talking on the field: Norman Transcript

OU merits mention discussion of college football's best: The Oklahoman

Iglesias, Johnson are stars on senior night: The Oklahoman

Tech's Leach says OU has his vote in coaches poll: The Oklahoman

OU wins in trenches: The Oklahoman

Grading the Sooners -- OU earns straight A's: The Oklahoman

Called out OU fans respond with shout out in rout: The Oklahoman

Bradford's Heisman candidacy picks up steam: The Oklahoman

Defense silences critics: The Oklahoman

By the numbers: The Oklahoman

Quoteboard: The Oklahoman

Bedlam set for 7 p.m.: The Oklahoman

Norman Knockout: Tulsa World

Bedlam just got a lot more exciting: Tulsa World

Bedlam ticket issue heats up: Tulsa World

Murray sets the tone: Tulsa World

OU Notebook: Tulsa World

Report Card: Tulsa World

Big 12 South race: Tulsa World

OU thrashes No. 2 Tech: Dallas Morning News

Win over OSu should give Sooners the nod:Dallas Morning News

Sooners' crowd responds to Stoops' plea: Dallas Morning News

Crimson & Creamed: Lubbock Avalanche-Journal

Sooners leave Raiders battered, bruised after romp: Lubbock Avalanche-Journal

OU defense holds Tech to season lows: Lubbock Avalanche-Journal

Sooners send No. 2 Tech crashing to earth: Star-Telegram

Bradford, Sooners had a ball beating on BCS door: Star-Telegram

OU defense heard the talk, and did something about it: Star-Telegram

Tech set for a tumble as Big 12 South is jumbled: Austin American-Statesman

BCS chase still a scramble with two weeks left in season: USA Today

Stoops has Sooners on top of their game: Houston Chronicle

You want answers? You've got nothing with this Sooners win: Sportsline

Oklahoma turns Big 12 South race into riddle: Sports Illustrated

Sooners' intensity overwhelms Texas Tech: Fox Sports.com

Oklahoma dominates, scrambling title races: New York Times

Oklahoma Bursts Texas Tech’s Bubble: Crimson and Cream Machine

Sooners' impressive rout initiates Oklahoma-Texas debate: ESPN.com

November 22, 2008

Bedlam Set for 7:00 p.m. Kickoff

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Sooners and Cowboys in PrimeTime: ABC announced Oklahoma vs. Oklahoma State (Bedlam) would be televised 7 p.m. nationally (on ABC) next Saturday, November 29th (via OU-Texas Tech Coverage).

Related: Oklahoma vs. Oklahoma State History

Sooners Smoke Raiders

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

No. 5 Oklahoma dominates No. 2 Texas Tech 21 - 65: Sam Bradford and Oklahoma are on their way up in the national championship race, and Texas Tech sure came down with a mighty fall.Bradford threw for 304 yards and four touchdowns, and DeMarco Murray and Chris Brown combined to run for five more scores as the fifth-ranked Sooners brought an unceremonious end to No. 2 Texas Tech's run toward perfection in a 65-21 blowout Saturday night. (AP)

Game Day: OU-Texas Tech Articles and Notes

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Tech's road record: Texas Tech is 2-16 on the road against ranked opponents since Mike Leach took over in 2000.

OU's home field advantage: OU has nation's longest active home winning streak at 23. OU is 60-2 at home since coach Bob Stoops took over in 1999 and has won 43 of the last 44 home games.

So much on the line: Norman Transcript

Its time Sooners win a game like this: Norman Transcript

Pride of Noble: Norman Transcript

Stakes are high as OU, Tech face off in South showdown: Tulsa World

Will this be Sam's last home hurrah?: Tulsa World

OU-Tech Storylines: Tulsa World

OU GameDay Tips: Tulsa World

Bradford's instincts still intact: Tulsa World

Red Raiders have had trouble in Norman: The Oklahoman

Predictions from around the country: The Oklahoman

Big-time football is back: The Oklahoman

OU Blitz Package: The Oklahoman

Prediction: OU will beat Raiders: Enid News and Eagle

Everything on the line for Tech: Dallas Morning News

Tech-Oklahoma Preview: Dallas Morning News

This has been a season for the ages in the Big 12: Dallas Morning News

Sooners looking for victory, not revenge: Lubbock Avalanche-Journal

Coordinator cranks up Tech's intensity: Houston Chronicle

OU or Tech face dead end: San Antonio Express-News

Sooners can run to limelight against Texas Tech: Star-Telegram

Texas Tech's Harrell can show he's the man: Star-Telegram

On the sideline this weekend, Texas fans look for rooting interests: Austin American-Statesman

Why Oklahoma will beat Tech (or not): Austin American-Statesman

Heisman, BCS on line in Tech vs. Oklahoma: NBC Sports

Stoops' winning streak dotted by few upsets: ESPN.com

Texas Tech-Oklahoma Preview (Video): ESPN.com

Defensive Keys To Victory Against Texas Tech: Crimson and Cream Machine

Offensive Keys To Victory Against Texas Tech: Crimson and Cream Machine

Road to Gameday -- Tough tickets in Norman: The Sporting News

Oklahoma is all that stands between Texas Tech, No. 1: USA Today

Another Saturday, another colossal Big 12 game: Sportsline

Red Raiders due in Norman: Fox Sports.com

Texas Tech-Oklahoma is a quarterback tossup: Kansas City Star

Another big game, another loss for OU: The Birmingham News

Red Raiders ready for Sooner showdown: New York Daily News

Hurdle for Texas Tech: Atlanta Journal Constitution

Red Raiders and Sooners Face Off In The Schools Biggest Games: Bleacher Report

Bradford No. 3 in Heisman Polls

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Bradford No. 3 in ESPN Heisman Watch:
(1st place votes) total votes
Graham Harrell, QB, Texas Tech (12) 69
Colt McCoy, QB, Texas 55
Sam Bradford, QB, Oklahoma (2) 43
Tim Tebow, QB, Florida 29
Michael Crabtree, WR, Texas Tech (1) 22

Complete ranking at ESPN.com

USA Today - Panel
(1st place votes) total votes
Graham Harrell (10) 50
Colt McCoy 31
Sam Bradford 27
Tim Tebow 21
Michael Crabtree 17

Some individual Heisman rankings...
NY Times' The Quad: Bradford No. 4

Heisman Pundit: Bradford No. 4

November 21, 2008

Law enforcement warns of counterfeit tickets

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Fans beware of counterfeit OU-Texas Tech tickets: Norman law enforcement agencies are cautioning buyers to be wary of tickets offered by unauthorized outlets after a flurry of counterfeit ticket activity in Texas. More than 500 people were reportedly caught in scams by suspects who sold counterfeit tickets to the recent Texas Tech-Texas game. Those tickets were reportedly distinguishable from genuine tickets only when compared side by side, revealing slightly blurred lines and faded color on the fakes. The counterfeit tickets were sold for $250 to $350 apiece. (The Oklahoman)

Related: OU vs. Texas Tech tickets in demand

OU needs Stoops to be difference-maker: Yahoo! Sports

Tech offense will challenge Oklahoma: Star-Telegram

Eyes of Texas are on Norman, Okla.: Star-Telegram

Precision is key for Tech: Dallas Morning News

Tech's Lewis has a grasp on his role: Dallas Morning News

Tech's Leach still often talks to Switzer: Dallas Morning News

Weekend Preview: Showdowns to Savor: New York Times

20 Seniors to Play Final Game at Owen Field

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Senior day vs. Texas Tech: Lost in the hoopla of Saturday night's matchup is the fact that 20 Oklahoma seniors are playing their final game at Owen Field. "They've been a great group of seniors and great attitude guys," coach Bob Stoops said, "and I really thought they stepped up early on in the year and really have shown a lot of leadership, maybe more so than some of the seniors we've had, which you appreciate as a coach." OU is 39-11, 24-8 in the Big 12 Conference and has won back-to-back league championships over the seniors' four-year tenure. (Tulsa World)

Halzle working on childrens coloring book: (Joey) Halzle is developing a coloring book for kids at The Children's Hospital at the OU Medical Center. He hopes to use photographs of Sooner players, which will be turned into pictures that can be colored, then bound together. He wants to include quotes, too, words that would encourage and inspire children battling life-threatening illnesses. These are kids, after all, who touched Halzle's heart. "It puts things in perspective," he said of visiting The Children's Hospital. "It's a great experience to go and spend time." (More at The Oklahoman)

Gresham not thinking NFL.. right now: There is speculation that tight end Jermaine Gresham is among the Sooner underclassmen who are NFL draft-worthy and, therefore, might consider this a final home game. "It never came up in my mind," Gresham said earlier this week. "I just play football one game at a time. No looking to the future." (Tulsa World)

Season spotlight on OU's Bradford, Tech's Harrell: The Oklahoman

Sooner football team likes home cooking: The Oklahoman

Leach is Tech's mad scientist: Norman Transcript

Coaches agree, 'D' at T-Tech improved: Tulsa World

Police issue counterfeit ticket warning for OU-Texas Tech: Tulsa World

To huddle, or not to huddle -- What was the question?: Tulsa World

Heisman race could hinge on Tech-OU: Lubbock Avalanche-Journal

Sooners having no problems with no-huddle offense: Lubbock Avalanche-Journal

OU's not-so-special teams: ESPN.com

Stoops, Sooners have stumbled in recent spotlight games: ESPN.com

Fowler -- Red Raiders' offense should give OU defense fits: ESPN.com

Is this the year Red Raiders win in Norman?: The Sporting News

November 20, 2008

McCoy a Wooden finalist

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Gerald McCoy named a semifinalist for the Wooden Cup: Oklahoma defensive tackle Gerald McCoy has been named one of 16 semifinalists for the 2009 Wooden Cup. He is the fourth OU student-athlete to be considered for the award over the last four years. Sooner track and field and cross country runner Jackie Dubois won the Wooden Cup in 2005, the same year that OU football running back Jacob Gutierrez was a finalist. Then, football defensive end Carl Pendleton was a finalist in 2006. The announcement on the finalists was made by Fred Northup, President, Athletes for a Better World. The Wooden Cup is given to a collegiate and a professional athlete who have made the greatest positive influence in the lives of others. The award recipients will be announced at a ceremony held at Atlanta's East Lake Golf Club on Wednesday, January 14. (SoonerSports PR)

NBC Sports previews Oklahoma vs. Texas Tech... Drive to the BCS: Tech to stop Sooners

Another chance for historic Nov. at Owen Field: The Oklahoma Daily

Seniors ready for final home game: The Oklahoma Daily

OU vs. Tech will be like looking in the mirror: The Oklahoma Daily

College GameDay creates campus buzz: The Oklahoma Daily

Brody Eldridge near 100 percent

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Eldridge near 100 percent: After battling an ankle injury the last month, tight end Brody Eldridge is finally close to 100 percent, thanks to a week of rest during OU's bye week. Said Stoops, "That's a positive." (The Oklahoman)

Norman gets respect: When Bob Stoops asked fans to be louder, he wasn't admonishing Sooner Nation. He just wants to have every possible advantage. But Tech defensive end Jake Ratliff, for one, thinks OU fans won't have a problem getting loud. "Norman's a tough place to play," Ratliff said. "I mean, there's 90,000 fans screaming at you. It's a fun place to go. Don't get me wrong. It's a fun place to go and I like playing up there. But it's definitely a tough place to play, especially after playing (at home) the last two weeks." (Tulsa World)

Lots of press: If the magnitude of a game is reflected in the media coverage, Saturday's game is big. Oklahoma officials anticipate issuing about 340 media credentials, up from about 230 for most games. (Dallas Morning News)

Meet the Boz: Former OU linebacker Brian Bosworth is scheduled to attend a pregame tailgate party at Sooner Legends Inn and Suites in Norman on Friday from 7-9:30. The event is limited to 150 registered guests and can be reserved by calling 405-701-8100. (Tulsa World)

Predecessors see nothing but greatness in Tech's Harrell: The Oklahoman

OU's dilemma -- To squib or not against Tech: The Oklahoman

Sooner speed vs. Raider power: Tulsa World

Know the foe -- Texas Tech: Tulsa World

Up close with DeMarcus Granger: Tulsa World

Saturday is a battle of which team flinches first: Tulsa World

Bradford can't even remember Tech: Norman Transcript

Tech's secondary confident it can handle Oklahoma: Star-Telegram

Staubach is pulling for Texas Tech: Star-Telegram

Old friend Leach now dangerous foe for Oklahoma: Dallas Morning News

Tech football drawing unparalleled attention: Lubbock Avalanche-Journal

Stoops calling for more 'ruckus' from fans: Lubbock Avalanche-Journal

More on the line this weekend than Oklahoma-Texas Tech: USA Today

Who would you rather have at QB: Texas Tech's Graham Harrel: Sporting News

Who would you rather have at QB: Oklahoma's Sam Bradford: Sporting News

Tech's togetherness built through nocturnal workouts: ESPN.com

Improved running game boosts Tech's hopes: ESPN.com

November 19, 2008

Stoops to Fans: Make Some Noise

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Stoops denies message board rumors: Some fans used Oklahoma's bye week to circulate a message board rumor that the Sooners would have a new kicker by Saturday night's game against No. 2 Texas Tech. Not true, according to coach Bob Stoops. "Same guys," he said Tuesday. "Hopefully they'll be better." That goes for kicker — Jimmy Stevens is 4-of-7 on field goals and has missed four extra points -- and a kickoff coverage unit that has allowed three returns for touchdowns despite constant personnel adjustments. "We've worked it every day for the last two weeks," Stoops said of the kick coverage. "It sure looks good in practice." (Tulsa World)

OU's home field advantage: Stoops has lost two games at Owen Field in 10 seasons. But he got the attention of the Oklahoma media when he suggested that the fans could contribute more decibels. He noted that opponents seldom resort to silent counts in Norman. "I really do hope our people take an interest in not just cheering when we're going into the end zone but actively cheering and making noise when they're trying to communicate and get something going and to hopefully take away from something that they're doing," Stoops said. (Dallas Morning News)

OU vs. Texas Tech tickets in demand: Purchasing a ticket to Saturday's game between No. 2 Texas Tech and No. 5 Oklahoma isn't cheap. Tickets are going for a minimum of $150 on the ticket-selling Web site StubHub.com. Lower level seats are up to $1,500 apiece. The game is also the best-selling OU home game in StubHub history based on dollar volume, according to company spokeswoman Joellen Ferrer. (The Oklahoman)

Stadium no factor to OU football coach Bob Stoops: The Oklahoman

Bradford vs. Harrell -- Heisman at stake on Saturday: The Oklahoman

Coach says Sooner fans need to be a distraction to Red Raiders' offense: Tulsa World

Listen to Stoops discuss crowd noise at home games: Tulsa World

Defense the key: Norman Transcript

Has it ever been like this before?: Norman Transcript

Tech turns tide against Oklahoma: Lubbock Avalanche-Journal

After shaky start, Sooners' running game among Big 12's best: Lubbock Avalanche-Journal

OU's struggling defense needs to stand up against Tech: Star-Telegram

Bradford looking forward to getting a real shot at Texas Tech: Star-Telegram

Tech receiver Crabtree stays focused on hauling in title: Star-Telegram

November 18, 2008

OU's Gresham a Mackey Semifinalist

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Oklahoma TE Jermaine Gresham a Mackey semifinalist: Oklahoma tight end Jermaine Gresham was one of eight semi-finalists announced Monday for the 2008 John Mackey Award. Gresham leads the Sooners with nine touchdown receptions this season. The junior from Ardmore, Okla., is OU's all-time career leader at tight end in TD receptions with 21. In addition to Gresham, the Nassau County Sports Commission (NCSC) listed Chase Coffman (JR, Missouri), Jared Cook (JR, South Carolina), Mark Hafner (SR, Houston), Branden Ledbetter (SR, Western Michigan), Brandon Pettigrew (SR, Oklahoma State), Dennis Pitta (JR, BYU) and D.J. Williams (SO, Arkansas). (SoonerSports PR)

Venables offers no comment about Clemson interview: (Brent) Venables met with the media Monday for the first time since his interview with Clemson athletic director Terry Don Phillips last Tuesday about the ACC school's head coaching position. The Sooner defensive coordinator decline to comment on how the interview went. "I have nothing to say about that," he said. (Norman Transcript)

Las Vegas likes the Sooners: The Oklahoma Daily

OU ready for stouter defense: The Oklahoma Daily

Bedlam will be on ABC: The Oklahoman

Voting coaches have biases: The Oklahoman

OU Football Notebook: Tulsa World

Stoops praises Tech quarterback in press conference: Tulsa World

Sooners have to 'step up': Tulsa World

OU defense goes back to basics: Tulsa World

Osborne believes OU's saving grace is Owen Field: Tulsa World

Home field advantage: Norman Transcript

Tech's new defensive philosophy goes back a generation: Dallas Morning News

Stoops -- This game is motivation enough: Dallas Morning News

Texas' Brown not openly rooting for Sooners: Dallas Morning News

Leach has quite a history with Oklahoma: Ft. Worth Star-Telegram

Oklahoma defense works around injuries: Lubbock Avalanche-Journal

Raiders get first real chance to see Bradford: Lubbock Avalanche-Journal

Brown can't bring himself to cheer for the Sooners: ESPN.com

November 17, 2008

ESPN College Game Day live from Norman!!

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

College Game Day live from Norman: ESPN College GameDay is headed to Norman. The weekly college football show will broadcast live from OU's campus on Saturday, Nov. 22, as the No. 5 Sooners host No. 2 Texas Tech at Owen Field. The show goes live at 9 a.m. CT on Saturday. The set will be located inside the track at the John Jacobs Track & Field Complex immediately east of Gaylord Family - Oklahoma Memorial Stadium. The site is the same location as the last broadcast in Norman on Oct. 13, 2007, when the Sooners defeated Missouri. It will be the 20th time the show has been on hand for an Oklahoma game and the sixth time the program has televised live from Norman. (SoonerSports PR)

Notebook -- Gameday coming to Norman: The Oklahoman

Leach left legacy at OU: The Oklahoman

Breaking down Tech: The Oklahoman

Tech's skill -- avoiding negative plays: The Oklahoman

Sooners hold steady at No. 5: The Oklahoman

OU Notebook: Tulsa World

Know the Foe: Tulsa World

Sooners a long way from 1998: Tulsa World

Sooners drop in coaches poll: Tulsa World

For OU, style points have become very important: The Oklahoma Daily

Expect controversy if OU beats Tech: San Antonio Express-News

Tech gets chance to disappoint doubters again: Dallas Morning News

Tech trying to maintain focus for Oklahoma: Star-Telegram

No need to talk about national title yet: Lubbock Avalanche-Journal

Sooners have second chance for BCS title shot: Fox Sports.com

High stakes for Tech, Oklahoma as showdown looms: USA Today

November 16, 2008

Oklahoma No. 5 in BCS Standings

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

BCS Standings
1 Alabama .979
2 Texas Tech .970
3 Texas.891
4 Florida .876
5 Oklahoma .839
6 USC .787
7 Utah .764
8 Penn State .696
9 Boise State .656
10 Ohio State .615

Full BCS Standings at FOXSports.com

Related: Sooners No. 5 in AP & Coaches Polls

Sooners No. 5 in AP & Coaches Polls

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

AP Top 10 with Big 12 teams
(First Place Votes) Points
1 Alabama (42) 1601
2 Texas Tech (21) 1574
3 Florida (2) 1476
4 Texas 1437
5 Oklahoma 1369
6 Southern California 1310
7 Penn State 1178
8 Utah 1158
9 Boise State 1098
10 Ohio State 1017
11 Oklahoma State 987
12 Missouri 913

USA Today's Coaches Poll
1 Alabama (45) 1508
2 Texas Tech (15) 1465
3 Florida (1) 1373
4 Texas 1322
5 Oklahoma 1305
6 Southern California 1245
7 Utah 1113
8 Penn State 1093
9 Boise State 1023
10 Ohio State 957
11 Missouri 894
12 Oklahoma State 838

Full top 25 at ESPN.com

Last Week Top 25...



OU's bowl scenarios: Norman Transcript

OU by the numbers: The Oklahoman

No game bigger than OU-Tech: The Oklahoman

OU Football Storylines: The Oklahoman

November 15, 2008

(11/15) OU Football Articles and Notes

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

All eyes on the defense: The Oklahoman

A look at TT's 'genius': The Oklahoman

Stoops relies on help from his friends: Tulsa World

Intriguing bowl plots may play out: Tulsa World

Sooners might have a short answer to Tech's pass protection: Star-Telegram

November 14, 2008

(11/14) OU Football Articles and Notes

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

OU Football Notebook: Tulsa World

With Big 12 South, BCS could go in many directions: Dallas Morning News

BCS tiebreaker spells trouble for Longhorns: Star-Telegram

Big 12 Champion Should Play For BCS Championship As Long As It Isn’t Missouri: Crimson and Cream Machine

November 13, 2008

(11/13) OU Football Articles and Notes

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Venables' time has arrived: The Oklahoman

Report -- Venables interviewed for Clemson job: The Oklahoman

Up close with Brian Simmons: Tulsa World

OU's offense can hide sins of other units: Tulsa World

OU win could bring tiebreaker into play: Tulsa World

Bowl session: Tulsa World

OU Notebook: Tulsa World

Native American tribes look up to pair of Sooners: The Daily Orange

Sooners might have a short answer for Texas Tech's pass protection: Star-Telegram

For Big 12 defenses, it's stop 'til you drop: Dallas Morning News

The BCS system is fine how it is: The Oklahoma Daily

The Progression Of Austin Box: Crimson and Cream Machine

Sooners use off week to study Texas Tech: AP/NCAA FOOTBALL.com

Don't forget OU's Bradford in Heisman race: SportingNews

November 12, 2008

Sooners recruit de-commits

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

REPORT: Prospect Williams to de-commit from Sooners: Under Armour All-American cornerback Steve Williams has decommitted from the Sooners and could join California's Class of 2009, ESPN affiliate Web site OUInsider.com reports. When asked if he was a solid pledge, Williams responded, "I don't want to lie to you guys, but I don't think so. I think I am going to go to California and I am going to decommit from Oklahoma." He continued, "It is not really about Oklahoma it is just that I like California better. I just don't see myself as an Oklahoma Sooner as far as the system of playing cornerback."(More at ESPN.com)

Breaking the huddle on the politics of the Big 12 South: ESPN.com

Video: Bob Stoops Press Conference

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

Coach Bob Stoops Weekly Press Conference:
Part 1.. Stoops on OU's win over Texas A&M


Part 2.. Stoops on Mike Leach


Part 3.. Stoops on special teams


Part 4.. Stoops on BCS


Related: Stoops on A&M win, Texas Tech: SoonerSports.com

More on Venables and Clemson

Oklahoma Sooner Football Articles and Notes

UPDATED: Report: Clemson AD visits Oklahoma to interview who? Late this afternoon Clemson athletic director Terry Don Phillips boarded a plane headed for Oklahoma City. At first everyone believed that he would be talking with OU offensive coordinator Kevin Wilson, but it now looks like Phillips is meeting with OU defensive coordinator Brent Venables. (More at SoonersIllustrated)
UPDATE 2:
Internet reports suggested that Phillips flew to Oklahoma City to interview either Oklahoma offensive coordinator Kevin Wilson or defensive coordinator Brent Venables for Clemson's head-coaching vacancy. Wilson said Tuesday night he has not spoken with anyone from Clemson. "I'd like to say there was some truth, I'd love to say there was some truth to it," Wilson said. "But I have not talked to anyone, as God is my witness." Venables, however, was not available for interviews after practice. Sports information director Kenny Mossman said Venables went straight home after practice to be his with his wife, who gave birth to a girl last Friday, the couple's third child. Venables was mentioned as a candidate for the Clemson job in a report by Tom Dienhart of Rivals.com two weeks ago that cited unnamed sources. (In parts and more at The Oklahoman) Last week, Kansas State was rumored to be after Brent Venables for their vacant head coaching job.

Don't expect Halzle in OU's hurry up offense: A question during the press conference centered on backup quarterback Joey Halzle, whom Stoops said will "occasionally ... throw it on third down to pick up the first down and try to keep the chains moving," but will likely not be allowed to operate OU's fast-paced offense. Was it a fair way to prepare Halzle if an injury occurred to starter Sam Bradford? "Probably not," Stoops said, "but what do you do?" (Tulsa World)

Special teams not so special: The Oklahoman

Stoops talks about preparations for Tech: The Oklahoman

Breaking down OU's kickoffs: The Oklahoman

Breaking down OU's place-kicking: The Oklahoman

Breaking down OU's punting: The Oklahoman

OU win could bring tiebreaker into play: Tulsa World

Clemson rumors target OU staff: Tulsa World

Red Raiders preparing to go "11-0": Tulsa World

OU Notebook: Tulsa World

Wilson would like consideration: Norman Transcript

What if Sooners never shut it down?: Norman Transcript

Wilson says he wishes rumor was true: College Confidential

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