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Attorney: Balogun will sit against BYU: Tulsa World is reporting.. Mike Balogun won't make the trip to Dallas for the season-opening football game Saturday against Brigham Young, his attorney said in an e-mail this afternoon. "The NCAA has not made a decision and they will not have a decision before Friday," Balogun's attorney, Woody Glass, said in an e-mail. "Mike will not be able to travel with the team or participate in the game." Glass said the investigation into Balogun's eligibility has continued this week in Maryland. "They are conducting an additional investigation, and we are currently in Baltimore," Glass wrote in the e-mail. "They are trying to locate people that might have information about Mike's participation. I don't know anything else at this point." (Tulsa World)

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BYU left tackle Matt Reynolds optimistic he'll play Saturday: Left tackle Matt Reynolds might set off the metal detector at the airport when BYU's football team departs for Texas later this week -- what with a few screws and a plate in his left hand -- but the sophomore believes he will play against Oklahoma on Saturday after fracturing the hand about three weeks ago. "We are real optimistic about the chances," Reynolds said after participating in live drills during Saturday's practice, a rubbery splint protecting the hand. "I have one or two more doctors appointments before we say for sure -- yes or no. But things look optimistic." (Salt Lake Tribune)

BYU cornerback suffers broken hand? Cornerback Brian Logan may have broken his hand during Saturday's practice, Bronco Mendenhall said. Logan had appeared to be the starter at field corner prior to the injury. "I'm not sure if it's broken, but early signs say that," Mendenhall said. (Deseret News)

BYU Game Starters: KSL.com

BYU preparing for biggest game in 19 years: ABC4.com

BYU not leery about season opener against Oklahoma: ESPN.com

Find the latest OU vs. BYU game information on the next game page.

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No word on Mike Balogun's status: The Mike Balogun saga continues without any resolution. Asked Monday morning whether he had a sense about a final decision, Oklahoma coach Bob Stoops said: "I do not. I really don't. I wish I could tell you something different, but I don't." Balogun is listed as the backup middle linebacker to Reynolds in the Sooners' most recent depth chart released today. (Tulsa World)

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Decision on Balogun Likely Within A Week
Balogun Looking to Comprise With NCAA?
FSU Questioned Balogun's Eligibility
Balogun Files Restraining Order Against NCAA
NCAA Investigates Linebacker's Eligibility

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Several Sooner freshmen to play: Demontre Hurst and fellow freshman Marcus Trice have earned playing time on defense, but they'll be used on special teams as well. Joining them will be freshman Ronnell Lewis. "We've got some good, young, competitive guys," Chris Wilson said. "They're not worried about age right now." (The Oklahoman)

OU ready for game time: The Norman Transcript

Injuries to determine OU football success: The Oklahoma Daily

BYU QB Max Hall has connections: The Oklahoman

Four questions about OU football: The Oklahoman

Emails in on OU, OSU quarterback rankings: The Oklahoman

Breaking through: Tulsa World

Miller could be OU's X-factor: Tulsa World

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A few surprises on OU's depth chart: It's looking like former tight end Brody Eldridge could be Oklahoma's starting center Saturday against Brigham Young. The Sooners released their official Week 1 depth chart, and Eldridge is listed as the first-team center, ahead of Ben Habern, who just returned to practice from an inflamed back last week. Another surprise on the offensive line depth chart is Jarvis Jones being listed as the starter at right guard, instead of sophomore Stephen Good, who is Brian Simmons' backup at left guard. (The Oklahoman)

Related:
Oklahoma Sooners Football Depth Chart

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Bradford ranked No. 1 on Kiper's big board: ESPN's draft guru Mel Kiper recently released his first big board for the 2010 NFL draft. Oklahoma quarterback Sam Bradford is atop the board at No. 1 selection followed by four defensive players, including OU's Gerald McCoy at No. 4. The pair of Bradford and McCoy aren't the only Sooners listed, tight end Jermaine Gresham and offensive tackle Trent Williams are also among the top 15 prospects listed for next year's draft.

Mel Kiper on Oklahoma QB Sam Bradford:

Has underrated arm and great feel for position and is super-accurate.

A Look at Mel Kiper's 2010 Big Board

1. *Sam Bradford, QB, Oklahoma

2. *Eric Berry, S, Tennessee

3. *Carlos Dunlap, DE, Florida

4. *Gerald McCoy, DT, Oklahoma: Disruptive force. Productive NFL career ahead.

5. Ndamukong Suh, DT, Nebraska

8. *Dez Bryant, WR, Oklahoma State

9. Trent Williams, OT, Oklahoma: Quality all-around bookend, moves from RT to LT this season.

11. Colt McCoy, QB, Texas

14. Russell Okung, OT, Oklahoma State

15. Jermaine Gresham, TE, Oklahoma: Big-play TE, dynamic in the red zone.

*Asterisk denotes underclassmen

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Dominique Franks and Ryan Broyles to handle special team duties: OU special teams coordinator Chris Wilson says Dominique Franks and Ryan Broyles will be returning kicks this year. Franks returned just six punts a year ago, while Broyles brought back 23 for 223 yards, including a 68-yarder for a touchdown at Kansas State. He says Matt Moreland continues to battle Tress Way for kickoff duty. And he continues to tout the improvement of OU's kickoff coverage, which was woeful last season. "Like I've said before, I believe we had good guys on (the coverage team) a year ago," Wilson said. (Tulsa World)

OU running back Chris Brown wants to be like Kobe Bryant: The Oklahoman

OU Idol mentor Mike Vaughan offers three pieces of advice for offensive tackle Trent Williams: The Oklahoman

OU Idol mentor Jason White offers three pieces of advice to QB Sam Bradford: The Oklahoman

Sam Bradford can end all arguments about who's the best QB in Sooner history: The Oklahoman

The Great Reggie White had OU defensive tackle Gerald McCoy hooked: The Oklahoman

Seasons all about expectations: The Norman Transcript

Nothing wrong with Sooners' slate: The Norman Transcript

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Jaz Reynolds likely to see playing time: Wide receivers coach Jay Norvell is still determining his rotation. But one player he expects to contribute is true freshman wideout Jaz Reynolds (6-foot-2, 181 pounds), who continues to impress with his playmaking ability. "I see Jaz playing if he continues to perform the way he's practiced," Norvell said. "He can stretch the field; he's a very smart kid, which has allowed him to improve quickly." (The Oklahoman)

Here's where the Bradford, McCoy, Tebow trio ranks in Heisman lore: SI.com

Debunking the mystery of BYU - School isn't weird or cultish, just into clean living: The Oklahoman

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CBSSports.com announces preseason All-America Team: CBSSport.com announced their annual preseason first and second team All-Americans today with the glaring absence of reigning Heisman Trophy winner Sam Bradford. Florida's Tim Tebow was named first-team All-American quarterback and Texas' QB Colt McCoy was named second-team All-American. The only Sooner named to first-team All-American was senior tight end Jermaine Gresham. Gerald McCoy was the lone Sooner named second-team All-American by CBSSports.com.

Preseason All-America Team - First Team

Offense
Pos Player, School
QB Tim Tebow, Florida
RB Jahvid Best, California
RB Jonathan Dwyer, Georgia Tech
WR Dez Bryant, Oklahoma State
WR Arrelious Benn, Illinois
TE Jermaine Gresham, Oklahoma
OT Russell Okung, Oklahoma State
OT Ciron Black, LSU
OG Mike Johnson, Alabama
OG Jeff Byers, Southern California
C Kris O'Dowd, Southern California

Defense
DE Jerry Hughes, TCU
DE George Selvie, South Florida
DT Terrence Cody, Alabama
DT Ndamukong Suh, Nebraska
LB Brandon Spikes, Florida
LB Sergio Kindle, Texas
LB Rolando McClain, Alabama
CB Syd'Quan, California
CB Joe Haden, Florida
S Eric Berry, Tennessee
S Taylor Mays, Southern California

Special Teams
P Derek Epperson, Baylor
K Kai Forbath, UCLA
KR Perrish Cox, Oklahoma State
PR Brandon James, Florida

Full List

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Team captains chosen for 2009 season: Oklahoma announced its team captains today for the 2009 football season. The captains were selected in a vote by the team. The four players accumulating the most votes were quarterback Sam Bradford, tight end Brody Eldridge, defensive tackle Gerald McCoy and linebacker Ryan Reynolds. According to head coach Bob Stoops, enough other players received considerable votes that another captain roles will rotate among a group comprised of defensive end Jeremy Beal, running back Chris Brown, fullback Matt Clapp, linebacker Keenan Clayton, Auston English, Jermaine Gresham and Trent Williams. "I appreciate the four who received the most votes and they will represent the team well," Stoops said, "but I also think it says a lot about our program that so many other players were mentioned on the ballots. We have a large pool of players who fit the role of captain and that tells me that we have a healthy and cohesive locker room." (SoonerSports PR)

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English earns starting job at DE: Senior Auston English will join fellow defensive end Jeremy Beal in the starting lineup when the Sooners take on Brigham Young, defensive ends coach Chris Wilson said Thursday. English beat out sophomore Frank Alexander, who will be the third end in the rotation. Redshirt freshmen R.J. Washington and David King, who returned to practice recently from a concussion, are still competing for the No. 4 defensive end spot. (The Oklahoman)

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Players Compete For Starting DE Position

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Other Oklahoma Football News

Heisman winner Bradford has one trophy left to win with OU: CBSSports.com

ESPN's Kirk Herbstreit handicaps the Heisman Trophy race: The Oklahoman

In Paris, Texas, Sooners' Stephen Good is still a big hero: The Oklahoman

OU line responds strongly: Tulsa World

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Decision on LB Mike Balogun's eligibility soon? Mike Balogun's lawyer said in an e-mail interview Wednesday night that he expects to know Thursday when the NCAA will make a final determination. Norman attorney Woody Glass also said he filed an additional supplement to his original motion for a temporary restraining order. The new supplement contains an affidavit from Charles McGriff, Balogun's former coach with the semi-pro Maryland Marauders, that supports three other sworn affidavits submitted last Friday claiming Balogun did not play for the Marauders or the Prince George Jets after his 21st birthday. McGriff told the NCAA during its initial investigation that he thought Balogun had played for him in 2005, but in the affidavit, he says now he does not believe Balogun played for him at that time. (Tulsa World)

Previous Post:
Balogun Looking to Comprise With NCAA?
FSU Questioned Balogun's Eligibility
Balogun Files Restraining Order Against NCAA
NCAA Investigates Linebacker's Eligibility

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SI files open records request seeking coaches votes: Sports Illustrated is requesting the votes of all 51 head coaches at public universities, whom take part in the USA Today Coaches Poll, under the Freedom of Information Act in an effort to seek more transparency. And its no surprise the American Football Coaches Association is against the effort.

From SI.com:

Beginning Tuesday, SI.com will file records requests with the employer of each of the 51 public school coaches who vote in the 2009 poll. If the schools comply with the law, we should get a look at every ballot. Legal action may be required if schools refuse to comply, but if a recent case involving Florida State and the NCAA is any indication, judges likely will support the people asking that highly paid public employees be held accountable for their actions. Every ballot we receive will be published.

One of the first universities and coaches to comply was University of South Florida and head coach Jim Leavitt. His ballot was interesting in that, Leavitt voted Oklahoma No. 1 over Florida. He explained his Top 25 ballot.

"The SEC's tough. I think it's probably one of the tougher conferences out there in the country. To go through that and to become a national champion two years in a row, that's a lot of pressure on Florida. That was the only thing -- when you're the guy, trying to repeat as national champions, that's asking an awful lot... I did pick Florida No. 2. It's not like I put them down at the bottom... Do I give it to OU because I know Bob [Stoops] so well? No, I try to stay away from that, but I don't think anybody will believe me."

So is the AFCA trying to hide bias in the poll? Remember in 2007 when several coaches (T. Bowden, B. Bowden, M. Bellotti, and H. Schnellenberger) voted Missouri ahead of Oklahoma despite losing to the Sooners twice that season. And reminder the coaches votes account for one-third of the BCS formula.

Question: Should coaches ballots be available to the public?

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1st week of ESPN's Heisman Watch: ESPN.com debuted their annual Heisman Watch last week, Oklahoma QB and defending Heisman trophy winner Sam Bradford ranked No. 3 in the preseason poll. The ESPN 'panel of experts' didn't give Bradford one 1st place vote! And to top it off, Bradford received fewer second place votes than Texas' QB Colt McCoy.

Here's a look at their poll.

Rank: Player - 1st place votes, 2nd, 3rd, (total points)
1. Tim Tebow - 11, 4, 0 (71)
2. Colt McCoy - 4, 8, 3 (61)
3. Sam Bradford - 0, 3, 12 (48)

Other notable players:
Jahvid Best (15)
Eric Berry (11)
Dez Bryant (5)

Full ESPN.com Heisman Watch

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Stoops not concerned with video board: Oklahoma football coach Bob Stoops said recently, he's not concerned with the height of the massive Dallas Cowboys video board and sees it as 'a plus' if one of the Sooner punters were able to hit the board at Cowboys Stadium. The 60-yard long board which hangs 90-foot (NFL league policy is 85-foot) above the field has been an obstacle for at least one punter.

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Backup QB position still undetermined: With only a week and a half until the opener, Sooners coaches still aren't ready to reveal who quarterback Sam Bradford's backup will be. Both true freshman Drew Allen and redshirt freshman Landry Jones continue to compete for the spot. So far, neither has outshined the other. "They are doing well, but they still need work, and you still go back and appreciate how good Sam was as a second-year guy," Wilson said. "We need them to heighten their sense of urgency, because there is a chance that they will play." (The Oklahoman)

Building a better Sam Bradford: The Oklahoman

OU's Elvis figures to collect a few more grass stains: The Oklahoman

Big meeting puts OU offensive line on same page: The Oklahoman

Bradford back to lead explosive OU: Abilene Reporter News

McCoy, Tebow, Bradford in unique Heisman race: Montgomery Courier News

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BYU vs Oklahoma spirit pass available: Even though college football's inaugural game at Cowboys Stadium between No. 3 Oklahoma and No. 20 Brigham Young has been declared a sellout, there's always room for more with a $25 Spirit Pass. Sooners and Cougars fans that may have missed out on landing tickets for college football's season opener on Sept. 5 still have a chance to attend the game. The Spirit Pass gives fans access to six giant-sized end zone decks that encompass 180,000 square feet, public concourses, numerous concession areas and more than seven acres of outdoor plaza space. Fans will have the same opportunity to experience the sights, sounds and excitement of the game, including a view of the world's largest center-hung video board that stretches 60 yards in length. In addition, two 48-foot wide video boards will directly face Spirit Pass fans to enhance their game-day experience. A Spirit Pass is similar to the infield at the Kentucky Derby, the Texas Motor Speedway, a Grounds Pass at Wimbledon, or the Pavilion at the Byron Nelson Golf Championship. Fans may purchase the Spirit Pass online by visiting www.ticketmaster.com or by calling toll-free, 800-755-3000. (Dallas Cowboys PR)

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Four-star prospect Trey Millard commits to Oklahoma: The state of Oklahoma appears to be the place to be for Rock Bridge’s two blue-chip football recruits. Chase Rome verbally committed to Oklahoma State in March, and Monday night Bruins teammate Trey Millard gave Big 12 rival Oklahoma a pledge. Rivals.com reported the commitment, and Bruins Coach A.J. Ofodile confirmed it Tuesday morning. With school starting this week, Millard was unavailable for comment. (Columbia Tribune)

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Possible pending agreement between NCAA and Balogun? Mike Balogun's attorney, Woody Glass, told The Oklahoman that today's temporary injunction hearing against the NCAA has been cancelled, and that he is working on an agreement that will have the NCAA re-evaluate his client's eligibility outside the courts. "Our hope is to get all this information that I've uncovered the last several weeks back to the NCAA," Glass said, "and let them make a decision." Glass said part of the pending agreement with the NCAA is "getting in place deadline dates," so a ruling can be made before Oklahoma's Sept. 5 opener with Brigham Young. "Their attorneys have been very helpful and have shown a willingness to speed up the issue," Glass said. The main reason, Glass said, for taking Balogun's case back out of court is NCAA bylaw 19.7. which allows for penalties against schools that allow student-athletes to play under a court order and that order is later overturned or found to be unjustified. (More at The Oklahoman)

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FSU Questioned Balogun's Eligibility
NCAA Investigates Linebacker's Eligibility

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Florida ranked No. 1 in AP preseason poll: As Tim Tebow and the Florida Gators prepare to make a run at their third national title in the last four seasons, the defending champions have already made some history. Florida is No. 1 in The Associated Press' preseason Top 25 released Saturday, followed by Texas, Oklahoma, Southern California and Alabama. But the Gators are in a class by themselves, the most overwhelming preseason No. 1 in the history of the media poll. Florida received 58 of the 60 first-place votes, or 96.7 percent. Texas got the other first-place votes. (AP/Yahoo! Sports)

AP Top 25
(1st place votes) total points
1. Florida (58) 1498
2. Texas (2) 1424
3. Oklahoma 1370
4. USC 1313
5. Alabama 1156
6. Ohio State 1113
7. Virginia Tech 1054
8. Mississippi 1047
9. Oklahoma State 989
9. Penn State 989
20. Brigham Young 267
24. Nebraska 207
25. Kansas 134

Full AP Preseason Poll

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Report: Linebacker Tom Wort out 2009 season with torn ACL: The Oklahoman's Jake Trotter is reporting.. Oklahoma true freshman middle linebacker Tom Wort has a torn ACL, a source with knowledge of the situation confirmed to The Oklahoman. Wort injured the knee during practice Thursday. An MRI confirmed the ACL tear. Wort's injury likely means he'll redshirt this season and still have four years left of eligibility. (The Oklahoman)

Related:
OU Linebacker Wort Injured

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Reynolds and Lewis among LBs named to Butkus award watch list: Oklahoma's Ryan Reynolds and Travis Lewis were among 35 players nominated for the 2009 Butkus Award preseason watch list Friday. The Butkus Award goes to college football's top linebacker. (Tulsa World)

2009 Butkus Award pre-season watch list
Pat Angerer, Iowa
Navorro Bowman, Penn State
Bruce Carter, North Carolina
Jamar Chaney, Mississippi
Justin Cole, San Jose State
Kavell Conner, Clemson
Rennie Curran, Georgia
Ryan D'Imperio, Rutgers
A.J. Edds, Iowa
Obi Ezeh, Michigan
Chris Galippo, USC
Darryl Gamble, Georgia
Dont'a Hightower, Alabama
Nate Irving, North Carolina State
Micah Johnson, Kentucky
Greg Jones, Michigan State
Sean Lee, Penn State
Travis Lewis, Oklahoma
Rolando McClain, Alabama
Mike McLaughlin, Boston College
Rod Muckelroy, Texas
Eric Norwood, South Carolina
Joe Pawelek, Baylor
Ryan Reynolds, Oklahoma
Perry Riley, LSU
Daryl Sharpton, Miami (Fla.)
Malcolm Smith, USC
Sean Spence, Miami (Fla.)
Brandon Spikes, Florida
Quan Sturdivant, North Carolina
Daryl Washington, TCU
Dekoda Watson, Florida State
Sean Weatherspoon, Missouri
Kion Wilson, South Florida
Martez Wilson, Illinois

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Extent of Wort injury unknown: True freshman linebacker Tom Wort suffered a knee injury during Thursday's practice, adding more uncertainty to Oklahoma's outlook at middle linebacker. "He was just jumping up for a ball and came down funny," coach Bob Stoops said. "We're worried about his knee. We'll see what the doctors say. "I can't detail it here today without them having a chance to thoroughly look at it." Wort, of New Braunfels, Texas, was vying for playing time at middle linebacker. His injury complicates OU's situation at the position past starter Ryan Reynolds even further, with the NCAA currently investigating the eligibility of senior middle linebacker Mike Balogun. (The Oklahoman)

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BYU RB Unga: OU is no tougher than Swine Flu: When it was suggested to BYU running back Harvey Unga earlier this week that he might not be able to handle a pounding from Oklahoma's defense in a couple of weeks because he is not being tackled in fall camp, he answered with a question. "You ever had the swine flu?" Unga asks. The junior from Provo's Timpview High School has. And he says whatever viciousness the No. 3-ranked Sooners bring to the new Dallas Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, Texas, on Sept. 5 surely can't be worse that what he went through for 10 days or so in early June. "Like somebody is hitting your back and your head, your whole body, with a sledgehammer," he said. More than two months after the fact, Unga still doesn't know how he got the H1N1 virus. He just knows he began feeling ill one night, and the next day a doctor was telling him about the swine flu. (Salt Lake Tribune)

Florida State first questioned OU's Balogun eligibility: Tulsa World

OU's McCoy has split personality: Enid News.com

OU, OSU offensive linemen fly under the radar: The Oklahoman

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OU Quarterback Sam Bradford on another pre-season watch list: Oklahoma's Sam Bradford and Oklahoma State's Zac Robinson are among seven quarterbacks in the Big 12 named to the watch list for the Manning Award, given annually to college football's best quarterback. (The Oklahoman) Note: Ten semifinalists for the Manning Award will be announced Nov. 30. The 2009 Manning Award winner will be presented Jan. 14, 2010. The Manning Award is the only award that takes bowl game performances into consideration.

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Comments made during telecast raised questions: In the first half of the BCS National Championship game, Mike Balogun corralled Florida running back Chris Rainey for a 3-yard loss. Had Balogun not made that tackle, his eligibility at Oklahoma may have never come under investigation by the NCAA. Court documents obtained by The Oklahoman from Balogun's lawsuit against the NCAA allege that comments made by TV announcers during the national-title telecast about Balogun being age 25 and playing semi-pro ball before coming to OU sparked the NCAA's inquiry into his past. Balogun filed a civil lawsuit against the NCAA on Tuesday and was granted a temporary restraining order against the governing body by a Cleveland County Court judge. According to court records, the day after watching the title game and hearing what the announcers had said about Balogun, officials from Florida State's compliance department contacted the Big 12 Conference and suggested league officials investigate Balogun's eligibility. After a follow-up, the Big 12 was satisfied with the information provided by OU's compliance department. (More at The Oklahoman)

Related:
NCAA Investigates Linebacker's Eligibility

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Oklahoma vs. Idaho State set for 6:0o p.m. on PPV: The University of Oklahoma announced today that its home opener against Idaho State will begin at 6 p.m., on Sept. 12. The game will be televised on a pay-per-view basis in partnership with Fox Sports Southwest and details of that telecast will be announced later. Oklahoma opens its season on Sept. 5 against BYU at Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, Texas. The match with Idaho State will be the first between the two schools. (SoonerSports PR)

Related:
2009 Oklahoma Sooners Schedule

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Mike Balogun allowed to practice with Sooners: Oklahoma linebacker Mike Balogun can still practice with the team thanks to a temporary restraining order issued by a Cleveland County District Judge Tuesday afternoon in a case concerning his amateur status with the NCAA. Balogun was to become decertified today as an eligible football player due to an NCAA ruling having to do with the linebacker's involvement with a semi-professional league and whether or not he participated in games after the age of 21. Until the matter is resolved with the NCAA, Balogun will not be allowed to play in any games. (Norman Transcript)

Related:
NCAA Investigates Linebacker's Eligibility

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Florida Gator LB Spikes claims OU is a dirty team: Seven months after the national title game, LB Brandon Spikes is still thinking about Oklahoma. When asked about the dirtiest players on the team, Spikes segued straight to Florida's opponent in last season’s Bowl Championship Series national title game. "Compared to Oklahoma, you won't find anyone (as dirty)," Spikes said. With Florida's expectations as a national title favorite, the Gators and Sooners could meet in Pasadena for a second straight title game. "That's going to be fun if we play them," DE Carlos Dunlap said. (Orlando Sentinel)

Coker visits Sooners practice: Former Miami coach Larry Coker, now head coach at Texas-San Antonio, attended Monday’s practice. "I'm trying to learn some football from the best," said Coker, a native of Okemah who was the offensive coordinator at OU in the early 1990s. (The Oklahoman)

Way steps up at practice: Tress Way Oklahoma's competition at punter, if there ever was one, appears to be over. Tress Way, a redshirt freshman from Union, put on a kicking exhibition during an hour-long open session of practice at the OU rugby fields. Way has been competing with junior college transfer Cameron Kenney, who also plays wide receiver. Way's time spent working solely at punter and placekicker may have allowed him to pull away from Kenney. With a slight breeze at their backs and some 700 fans watching from just beyond the sideline, Way averaged 49 yards on his first seven punts, while Kenney averaged 43. (Tulsa World)

Tennell's turn: Norman Transcript

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Beal only starter named at defensive end: Oklahoma assistant coach Chris Wilson says the competition at defensive end is still wide open. Sophomore Frank Alexander and redshirt freshman R.J. Washington have impressed coaches, but none have played to the level of Jeremy Beal, who Wilson said was the only player he could name as a starter this early in camp. "He's playing really smart," Wilson said. Wilson said Auston English is also in the mix for a starting spot. As for Washington, Wilson says he's happy that the 6-foot-3, 247-pounder is starting to play to his potential. "He had that label of being the top player a couple years ago, and that's a lot of pressure for a young guy," Wilson said. (The Oklahoman)

Sooners working out several at center: Two days into practice, the Sooners had lost their top-two centers to injury in Ben Habern (inflamed back) and Brian Lepak (high-ankle sprain). As a result, offensive line coach James Patton has been forced to work tackle Trent Williams, guard Stephen Good and tight end Brody Eldridge at center. (The Oklahoman)

2009 Heisman Watch: DeMarco Murray: Athlon Sports

Great expectations for OU, Ohio State this season: The Oklahoman

OU coach Bob Stoops says more credit due to five Sooners: The Oklahoman

The Main Event: Best OU openers of all time: The Oklahoman

Madu's motor offers options: Tulsa World

Meet the OU offensive line: Tulsa World

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Sooner defenders named to Nagurski Watch List: Oklahoma's Jeremy Beal and Gerald McCoy are on the preseason watch list for the Bronko Nagurski Award. The honor is presented annually to college football's top defensive player. It is selected by the Football Writers Association of America and presented by the Charlotte (NC) Touchdown Club. Beal, a junior defensive end from Carrollton, Texas, started all 14 games for OU last season when he logged 61 tackles, including 15.5 for loss and 8.5 sacks. McCoy, a senior defensive tackle from Oklahoma City, also started 14 games last season with 30 tackles, 11 tackles for loss and 6.5 sacks. (SoonerSports PR)

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Bradford, Brown, Gresham and Murray named to Maxwell watch list: Four Oklahoma players are on the preseason watch list for the 73rd Maxwell Award. Maxwell Football Club President Ron Jaworski made the announcement today. There are a total of 55 players on the list. The Maxwell Award is presented annually to the top player in college football. Quarterback Sam Bradford, running back Chris Brown, tight end Jermaine Gresham and running back DeMarco Murray are all on the list. Bradford won the Heisman Trophy last season, while Gresham was a first-team All-American. Brown and Murray both eclipsed 1,000 yards for the season with 1,220 and 1,002 respectively. The Maxwell Award has been presented to the outstanding collegiate football player in America since 1937 and is named in honor of Robert W. "Tiny" Maxwell. The Maxwell Football Club, founded in 1935, is based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and is the oldest football club in the United States. Semifinalists for the Maxwell Award will be announced on November 4th and three finalists for each award will be announced November 23rd. The winner of the 2009 Maxwell Award will be announced as part of the Home Depot ESPNU College Football Awards Show which will be held on December 10, 2009. (SoonerSports PR)

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Offensive line play helps OU offense in scrimmage: Oklahoma's football practice Wednesday (8/12) featured a scrimmage. By most accounts, the Sooners' high-powered offense outplayed the defense. "I can admit it," said defensive tackle Gerald McCoy. "They teach us to admit our faults, be a man about it, and they got us in the end. But that just helps us." McCoy said one of the big reasons for the offense's success was the play of the offensive line, specifically the play of Brian Simmons, who spends most of practice trying to block the All-American. (The Oklahoman)

Notable at OU's ccrimmage:
Junior defensive end Pryce Macon did not practice. He was wearing a knee brace.

Junior running back DeMarco Murray was a partial participant in Wednesday's workout.

Stoops on opening practices to the public: OU coach Bob Stoops' decision this week to open up two practices caught some by surprise. But Stoops on Friday admitted a soft spot for the legions of Sooner fans who are just dying to watch their team. "We want them to watch to some degree," Stoops said. "But again, I just think there's so much more out there nowadays. I feel we're doing the right things, I just want to be able to let them enjoy it when you can here and there." (Tulsa World)

OU Injury News: A handful of Sooners continue to miss practice for various reasons, most due to injury. Safety Joseph Ibiloye (knee), cornerback Jamell Fleming (back), defensive end David King (concussion), safety Kevin Brent (shoulder) and running back Jonathan Miller (undisclosed) are among those currently out. Stoops said defensive back Desmond Jackson "has an issue with academic misconduct that he's working through." (Tulsa World)

Converted TE Eldridge enjoys dabbling at center: ESPN.com

Stoops says Bradford is playing better than before: ESPN.com

Sooner O-Line in flux: Norman Transcript

Dominique Franks, Ryan Broyles hoping for many happy returns on special teams: The Oklahoman

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OU Linebacker Mike Balogun's eligibility called into question: As a result of information provided by the University of Oklahoma, the NCAA has decertified the eligibility of OU linebacker Mike Balogun pending further review. The senior is eligible to continue in practice through Wed., Aug. 19, but may be sidelined after that time. The matter that is being reviewed is Balogun's participation in the North American Football League, a semi-professional league, and whether he participated in any games after the age of 21. Any participation during each 12-month period after his 21st birthday would result in a corresponding loss of a season of collegiate eligibility. The NCAA is responsible for the certification of amateur status for all student-athletes. As part of that process, the NCAA was aware of Balogun's participation in the league prior to the 2008 season. The NCAA interviewed Balogun, reviewed information, then certified him on May 28, 2008. OU's compliance office subsequently confirmed the NCAA's information and certification. More information came to light after the 2008 season and OU again reviewed the matter and shared its information with the NCAA. "I don't know how we could have done more than we have in this matter, and we've had a good working relationship with the NCAA on Mike's case all along," said OU Head Coach Bob Stoops. "We're still hopeful that Mike will be eligible for this season, but we'll have to see what happens over the coming days." (SoonerSports.com)

OU linebacker Mike Balogun's eligibility in question: The Oklahoman

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Oklahoma kicker up for top award: Oklahoma kicker Jimmy Stevens has been named to the preseason watch list for the Lou Groza Award. The honor is presented annually to the top placekicker in college football. This will be the 18th season for the award. The Palm Beach County Sports Commission sponsors the Lou Groza Award. In 2008, Stevens, a sophomore from Oklahoma City, was an All-Big 12 Academic first teammember. He converted 8-of-11 field goals and 92-of-97 extra points, while setting OU program records for most extra points made and attempted. He tallied a total of 116 points on the season, ranking No. 2 at OU for the most ever kicking points in a season. He converted two field goals, the longest a 30-yarder, in the Big 12 Championship against Missouri and booted season-long field goal of 42 yards against Texas A&M. (SoonerSports PR)

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Trent Williams earns high praise: Last Friday, [offensive coordinator] Kevin Wilson heaped high praise on starting left tackle Trent Williams. "The best lineman that I've had since I've been here -- and I did have two former players (Jammal Brown and Davin Joseph) who played in the Pro Bowl last year that were first-round picks -- is No. 71," Wilson said of Williams. "It's not close." Williams admitted earlier this week that he'd heard what his offensive coordinator said of him. (The Oklahoman)

A Look At The 2009 Oklahoma Sooners -- Offense: The Bleacher Report

OU tight end is 'Big-game Jermaine Gresham': The Oklahoman

Former OU standout Phil Loadholt is making a big impression in Minnesota: The Oklahoman

Sooners see tight battle for DE: ESPN.com

Freshman LB growing in OU defense: ESPN.com

OU's deepest position will be defensive end: Norman Transcript

OU's Bradford believes in new line: Denver Post

Big 12 all bbout Texas, Sooners: Dallas Morning News

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Trio of Sooners on Bednarik List: Oklahoma's Jeremy Beal, Travis Lewis and Gerald McCoy are on the watch list for the 15th Chuck Bednarik Award. Maxwell Football Club President, Ron Jaworski made the announcement today. Beal, a junior from Carrollton, Texas, started all 14 games at defensive end last season and was a firs-team All-Big 12 player by the Associated Press. He finished with 61 tackles, including 15.5 for loss with 8.5 sacks and three fumbles caused. Lewis, a sophomore linebacker from San Antonio, Texas, was Big 12 Defensive Newcomer of the Year in 2008 when he notched 144 tackles with 11.5 tackles for loss and 3.5 sacks. He broke Brian Bosworth's freshman tackle record, which stood at 133. McCoy, a junior from Oklahoma City, was a first-team All-American last season by The Sporting News. He had 30 tackles from his defensive tackle position along with 11 tackles for loss and 6.5 sacks. The Chuck Bednarik Award has been presented since 1995 and is named in honor of Chuck Bednarik, a former University of Pennsylvania and Philadelphia Eagle great. Mr. The only previous Oklahoma winner was LB Teddy Lehman, who claimed the honor in 2003.(SoonerSports PR)

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Ryan Broyles named to Biletnikoff Award watch list: As the preseason watch lists continue to emerge, so do the names of many local stars. Oklahoma States Dez Bryant and OU's Ryan Broyles have been named to the watch list for the 2009 Biletnikoff Award which honors college football's top receiver. Broyles accumulated a record 678 yards last year, the most ever by an OU Freshman Receiver. (KSBI.com)

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Oklahoma schedules two open next week: Oklahoma head football coach Bob Stoops has announced that a portion of two preseason workouts will be open to the public. Workouts this Thursday, August 13, and next Monday, August 17, will be open. Each practice will be open for approximately the first hour and both are slated to begin at 6 p.m. The practices will be held at the rugby fields located west of the Lloyd Noble Center. Those in attendance should park in the LNC parking lot and enter the lot from Imhoff Road, which borders the LNC on the north. The viewing area will be on the south side of the practice fields. If weather conditions force a practice to be moved indoors, public access will be cancelled due to a lack of seating space in the Everest Training Facility. Fans are prohibited from taking either video or still photographs during the practices. (SoonerSports PR)

Links of interest:
Oklahoma Sooners Roster
Oklahoma Sooners Depth Chart

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Gerald McCoy and Trent Williams among those on Outlaw Award watch list: Oklahoma defensive tackle Gerald McCoy and offensive tackle Trent Williams are on the watch list for the Outland Trophy, which is presented annually to the top lineman in college football. McCoy was named a first team All-American after last season by The Sporting news. He started all 14 games and finished the campaign with 30 tackles, 11 for loss, 6.5 sacks and one pass interception. A junior from Oklahoma City, McCoy has started all 27 games of his college career. Williams, a senior from Longview, Texas, was first team All-Big 12 last year by the conference's coaches. He started all 14 games last season, 13 at right tackle and one at left tackle, the position he will play this season. In 2008, he logged 131 knockdowns and saw action for 943 snaps. The Outland Trophy, presented annually since 1946, is the third-oldest award in major college football. (SoonerSports PR)

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WR Justin McCay verbally commits to Oklahoma: Highly touted five-star recruit Justin McCay verbally committed to Oklahoma on Tuesday. The 6-foot-3, 200-pound prospect at WR/LB is ranked No. 34 on Rivals 100 and No. 3 on Scout.com's National 100. McCay chose Oklahoma over Florida, Nebraska, Notre Dame, Florida State to name a few. He is the 21st verbal commitment of the 2010 recruiting class.

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Oklahoma Sooners Football Recruiting

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TE Brody Eldridge at center in practice: With Oklahoma's top two centers battling nagging injuries, offensive coordinator Kevin Wilson has had to get creative in furnishing his first-team offensive line. At the moment, with starting center Ben Habern dealing with a flaring muscle in his back and top reserve Brian Lepak out at least another week with a high-ankle sprain, Wilson has tight end Brody Eldridge working at center with the first-team offense. "If we were playing today, and Ben is limited and Lepak is limited, who's your center? It's probably Brody," Wilson said. (The Oklahoman)

Moreland rejoins team: After leaving the team for personal reasons in the spring, kicker Matt Moreland has rejoined the Sooners. Moreland handled OU's kickoffs last season. He'll compete with redshirt freshman Tress Way for kickoff duties this year. (The Oklahoman)

OU's Mossis Madu just wants the ball: The Oklahoman

Ex-Sooners join Dibble coach Charley North in bringing pride, optimism to small school: The Oklahoman

OU's trouble lies with the kickers: Tulsa World

5 Reasons Why Kansas Could Defeat Oklahoma This Season: KUSports.com

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Cameron Kenney impresses OU coaching staff on special teams: After Oklahoma's opening practice last week, junior college transfer Cameron Kenney showed coaches why he was named his conference's special teams player of the year two years ago. "Cameron, I saw for the first time (Thursday) punting and kicking. What a talented guy," coach Bob Stoops said. "He was bombing some of those punts." While Kenney's primary focus will remain at wide receiver, he should be a huge all-around addition to OU's special teams, which weren't always special last season. "He's a guy that can really run with it; he's a guy that can give you something extra if you snap it to him, he can pull it down and run with it," Stoops said, referring to Kenney's potential as a fake punt or field goal option. "He's got a good leg, so we'll keep working him, probably with punting more than anything." (The Oklahoman)

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Four-Star JUCO Star Commits to OU

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Dominique Franks named to Jim Thorpe Award watch list: Oklahoma's Dominique Franks and Oklahoma State's Perrish Cox are among 31 players listed on the preseason watch list for the Jim Thorpe Award, which is presented annually to the nation's top college defensive back. Franks is a junior cornerback from Union High School. He scored two touchdowns last season, one on a fumble return and one on an interception return. (Tulsa World) Note: Three Sooners have previously won the Thorpe Award ('87 Ricky Dixon, '01 Roy Williams and '03 Derrick Strait).

Related:
Previous OU Jim Thorpe Award Winners

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Lehman, Moore among those signed by Las Vegas UFL franchise: The United Football League (UFL) announced today the signing of 19 players for its Las Vegas franchise including quarterback Tim Rattay and linebackers Teddy Lehman (Sooners LB 2000-03) and Brandon Moore (LB 1997-01). The United Football League previously announced the signing of former NFL first-round draft pick JP Losman to the Las Vegas franchise. There will be more players for the Las Vegas franchise announced over the next few weeks. "The players who have signed with the Las Vegas franchise thus far are a top-notch line-up of former NFL veterans and skilled players who have the experience to produce on the field," said Las Vegas Head Coach Jim Fassel. "I am anxious to complete my roster and begin training camp in September." (PR Newswire)

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Pair of Sooners named to Hendricks Award watch list: Oklahoma's Jeremy Beal and Auston English are two of the 15 players who have been named to the preseason watch list for the Ted Hendricks Award, which is presented annually to college football's top defensive end. The Ted Hendricks Foundation, which sponsors the award, made the announcement. Beal started all 14 games last season logging 61 tackles, 15.5 tackles for loss, 8.5 sacks and three fumbles caused. The Carrollton, Texas, junior also broke up four passes. English, a senior from Canadian, Texas, played in 11 games last season with nine starts. He sustained a sprained knee in the 10th game (Nebraska) of the season and saw a reduction in playing time. He still finished with 33 tackles, nine tackles for loss and 4.5 sacks. He also recovered one fumble and broke up one pass. The Hendricks Award, now in its eighth year, is named in honor of college football's first three-time, first-team All-American. After a college career at Miami (Fla.), Hendricks's professional career spanned 15 years and 215 consecutive games. (SoonerSports PR)

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Stoops says WR Jameel Owens needs to make improvements: During his session with the media, Bob Stoops singled out sophomore Jameel Owens as someone who has work to do to make the wide-receiving rotation. Owens is a candidate to fill one of the vacant starting spots at wide receiver, or at least be a significant contributor in a reserve role. But Friday, it didn't sound like Owens was on track for either. "Jameel needs to make a lot of improvement," Stoops said. Stoops, however, wouldn't go into details. "There are just some things right now that he isn't where he needs to be," he said. (The Oklahoman)

Halze now an OU graduate assistant: Joey Halzle, Bradford's backup the previous two years, now is a graduate assistant, working in quality control. He'll break down film, prepare scouting reports, that kind of thing. "I really wanted to get into coaching," Halzle said. "Not a better place to start than getting your foot in the door at OU. "I always said, I didn't think I could have a regular job. I wanted to be involved in football. It's a passion of mine." (The Oklahoman)

What's Bradford working on: Norman Transcript

Wilson tackles his recovery: Tulsa World

OU's Lewis made most of opportunity: Enid News & Eagle

Eyes of nation will be on Oklahoma-Texas game: Dallas Morning News

Bradford hungry to do more: Omaha World Herald

BYU QB puts clubs away to focus on his other love: Deseret News

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Jenks to forfeit wins and Lake ruled ineligible: Documents obtained by the Tulsa World on Thursday detail the findings of Oklahoma Secondary School Activities Association regarding the eligibility of student-athlete Jarrett Lake. In the documents, released by Jenks Public Schools through the Open Records Act, the OSSAA found that Lake was ineligible because his aunt, identified as Claire Williams in OSSAA documents, maintained permanent residence in North Carolina while leasing property in Jenks. Lake was also ruled academically ineligible because he was ineligible at his previous school due to unpaid fees. Lake's name and other identifying information were redacted in the documents, but the World has learned from several sources that he is the player in question. Lake played football and ran track for the Trojans during the 2008-09 academic year, and he has committed to play football at the University of Oklahoma. The investigation was sparked by an anonymous e-mail sent April 10 by a person who claimed their son had been "screwed out of playing time" by Lake. The e-mail was sent from the address badad2011@aol.com. An e-mail sent to the address Thursday was returned with a message stating it was undeliverable. "I am now advising you for the last time before I sue each of you individually," the April 10 e-mail said. "...I dare each of you to ignore this e-mail. I have already retained an attorney who advised me to send you one last e-mail before we take action."(More at Tulsa World)

Jenks ordered to forfeit nine football games from 2008: USA TODAY

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Report: Oklahoma commitment Jarrett Lake ruled ineligible for upcoming season
Jenks' Jarrett Lake commits to OU after visit

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Kevin Wilson hopes to prove doubters wrong about Oklahoma's offensive line: During Thursday's edition of College Football Live, ESPN analyst and former Heisman winner Andre Ware made a bold, if not bizarre, prediction. The Oklahoma Sooners, ranked No. 3 in the preseason and returning the Heisman winner at quarterback, would lose four games this season, including the opener to Brigham Young. "It's documented that everybody is concerned about our offensive line. I'm not. At all," offensive coordinator Kevin Wilson said Friday during OU media day. "The line is as talented as any in this league and the country. It needs competition, it needs experience, it needs to grow. I can't help that it's not seasoned, but I love the ability with what we're working with. "I think it has a chance to be a phenomenal group." (More at The Oklahoman)

Wilson fed up with OU line's critics: Tulsa World

Sam Bradford is OU's Main attraction: Tulsa World

At OU fan day, there's signs of frustration: The Oklahoman

Oklahoma's Wilson an inspiration as he strives to walk again: Dallas Morning News

OU Fans still love their Sooners: Dallas Morning News

Oklahoma's maligned line a hot topic: Dallas Morning News

LB Reynolds hopes number change will change his luck: FT. Worth Star-Telegram

Meet the Sooners: Norman Transcript

Believing enough for Sooner defense?: Norman Transcript

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Oklahoma picks up verbal commitment from Franklin: Oklahoma reportedly has received its 20th verbal commitment of the 2010 recruiting class in Aaron Franklin, a linebacker from Marshall, Texas. The 6-foot-1, 206-pound Franklin told Rivals network Web site SoonerScoop.com Friday night that he chose OU over Texas, and phoned Longhorns defensive coordinator and head coach designate Will Muschamp to break the news. "He said it's all great and he is still happy for me and said I'm a good person and wished me good luck," Franklin told SoonerScoop. "He was cool about it." Rivals.com rates Franklin as a three-star prospect. (Tulsa World)

Related:
Oklahoma Sooners Football Recruits

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DeMarco Murray out a few weeks with strained hamstring: Another injury will keep DeMarco Murray off the field. Oklahoma coach Bob Stoops said the junior running back strained his right hamstring earlier this summer and will be held out of practice for two weeks as a cautionary measure. "He's had some unlucky breaks because they've been odd injuries and unusual in the way they've happened," Stoops said Friday. "We're just hopeful that he has some luck and those freakish things don't happen again." (The Oklahoman)

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Oklahoma RB DeMarco Murray to miss BCS Championship with hamstring injury

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Bradford, Gresham on Walter Camp watch list: Two Sooners were named on the Walter Camp Award preseason watch list on Friday. OU quarterback Sam Bradford and tight end Jermaine Gresham are among those named to the list. Last year's winner Colt McCoy of Texas is also on the list. The Camp award goes to college football's top overall player and is voted on annually by the 119 FBS head coaches. The last Sooner rewarded the Walter Camp Award was Josh Heupel in 2000, overall four Sooners have won the prestigious award.

2009 Walter Camp Award preseason watch list:
Jahvid Best, RB, Jr., California
Arrelious Benn, WR, Jr., Illinois
Eric Berry, DB, Jr., Tennessee
Sam Bradford, QB, Jr., Oklahoma
LaGarrette Blount, RB, Sr., Oregon
Dez Bryant, WR, Jr., Oklahoma State
Daryll Clark, QB, Sr., Penn State
Jonathan Dwyer, RB, Jr., Georgia Tech
Mardy Gilyard, WR, Sr., Cincinnati
Jermaine Gresham, TE, Sr., Oklahoma
Max Hall, QB, Sr., Brigham Young
Tim Hiller, QB, Sr., Western Michigan
Jerry Hughes, DE, Sr., TCU
Kendall Hunter, RB, Jr., Oklahoma State
Taylor Mays, DB, Sr., USC
Colt McCoy, QB, Sr., Texas
Kellen Moore, QB, So., Boise State
Todd Reesing, QB, Sr., Kansas
Jacquizz Rodgers, RB, So., Oregon State
George Selvie, DE, Sr., South Florida
Jordan Shipley, WR, Sr., Texas
Rusty Smith, QB, Sr., Florida Atlantic
Jevan Snead, QB, Jr., Mississippi
Brandon Spikes, LB, Sr., Florida
Golden Tate, WR, Jr., Notre Dame
Tim Tebow, QB, Sr., Florida
Sean Weatherspoon, LB, Sr., Missouri

Related:
Previous OU Walter Camp Award Winners

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Sooners ranked No. 3 in USA Today Coaches' poll: It's as easy as one, two, three. Florida, Texas and Oklahoma, the top three teams in the preseason USA TODAY Coaches' Poll, are led by three history-making quarterbacks: Tim Tebow, Colt McCoy and Sam Bradford. With Bradford claiming the 2008 Heisman Trophy and Tebow winning the 2007 trophy, could 2009 be McCoy's year? Never before in the Heisman's 74-year history have the top three vote-getters returned the following year to New York as finalists. This fall could be exceptional for several reasons -- three, in fact. "It's a wonderful thing for those three to be the face of college football," Texas coach Mack Brown says. "They're all three high-character guys," Florida coach Urban Meyer says. "College football needs that." (USA Today)

USA Today Coaches Poll - Rank Team (first-place votes)
1. Florida (53)
2. Texas (4)
3. Oklahoma (1)
4. Southern California (1)
5. Alabama
6. Ohio State
7. Virginia Tech
8. Penn State
9. LSU
10. Mississippi
11. Oklahoma State
22. Nebraska

Full Poll @ USA Today

Follow Oklahoma Sooners Blog on Twitter at twitter.com/oklafootball

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Toby Rowland named Oklahoma football sideline reporter: Oklahoma will be adding a new voice to its football radio broadcast team. KWTV's Toby Rowland will be the Sooners' new sideline reporter, the school announced Wednesday. "I am truly honored," said Rowland, who replaces former OU tight end Trent Smith on the sidelines. "Working with OU has been a thrill the last several years. And to get the opportunity to join the broadcast team during such an exciting time for Sooner athletics is humbling." (The Oklahoman) More on Sooner Radio Network on the media page.

Stoops visits Nick Saban: Bob Stoops had defensive coordinator Brent Venables and secondary coach Bobby Jack Wright accompany him on the private flight to Alabama. The three OU coaches spent "an entire day" watching video tape with Saban and his assistants. "We also worked on different wrinkles in each other's defense that should help both teams," Stoops said. When the Stoops-Saban Summit was confirmed, most assumed the two defensive gurus had huddled to discuss ways to stop the offensive expertise of Florida head coach Urban Meyer, who has won two of the last three BCS national titles. "They've always played really good defense," Stoops said of Saban-coached teams. "And we have that same reputation. "But it's funny how sometimes you see something differently through someone else's view. Or how they project it to you, and it makes sense." It's long been a practice for coaches to swap information in the offseason. Earlier this week, Stoops sent his entire staff to spend two days in the training camp of the NFL's New Orleans Saints. (Tulsa World)

Proactive prevention: Tulsa World

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One of the latest college football rankings is out this preseason. College Football News has released their rankings for the 120 bowl eligible teams. The Sooners are ranked at No. 3, the highest ranked Big 12 team, behind USC Trojans at No. 2 and defending BCS champions Florida Gators are No. 1 overall ranked team. Full Rankings

1. Florida
2. USC
3. Oklahoma
4. Texas
5. Georgia
6. Ohio State
7. LSU
8. Oklahoma State
9. Penn State
10. California

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Lee Roy Selmon set to be Tampa Bay Buccaneers' first Ring of Honor inductee: When Lee Roy Selmon was inducted into the NFL Hall of Fame in 1995 it was arguably one of his greatest honors and achievements. On Monday, Selmon was humbled by an honor that might rival his place in Canton, OH. The Buccaneers held a press conference Monday to announce the franchise's plans to induct Selmon into the team's Ring of Honor at Raymond James Stadium when the Bucs host the Green Bay Packers on Nov. 8. "This is a very exciting day for us, and a long time coming," said Bucs co-chairman Bryan Glazer. "When we bought the team in 1995, before we even went to a Buccaneer game, we didn't know much. But we were told we had to go to Canton, Ohio and represent the team at the induction ceremonies for the Hall of Fame and Lee Roy Selmon. It was a great beginning to our 15 years here, and I'm very proud to be here talking about this, the first inductee into the Ring of Honor at Raymond James Stadium. We've very pleased that person is going to be Lee Roy Selmon." (PewterReport.com)

Lee Roy Selmon a key part of Bucs lore: The Tampa Tribune

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Brown, Murray on Doak Walker Award Watch List: Oklahoma's Chris Brown and DeMarco Murray are both on the watch list announced today for the Doak Walker Award, which is presented annually to the nation's top running back. The Guaranty Bank SMU Athletic Forum made the announcement. The two OU players were part of an NCAA statistical first last season when they became the only pair of 1,000-yard rushers to share a backfield with a 4,000-yard passer, Sam Bradford. Brown led the Sooners in rushing with 1,220 yards on 217 attempts with 20 rushing touchdowns. He also caught 15 passes for 109 yards and one TD. Murray had been OU's top ground gainer until sustaining a hamstring injury on the opening kickoff of the Dr Pepper Big 12 Championship Game. Still, he finished the season with 1,038 rushing yards on 179 carries with 14 rushing touchdowns. He also caught 31 passes for 395 yards and another 4 TD. Murray's duties extended to retuning kicks, too. He logged 28 attempts for 774 yards (27.6/return). The Guaranty Bank SMU Athletic Forum Board of Directors will select the semifinalists on November 11, and the Doak Walker Award National Selection Committee will cast votes to determine the finalists, who will be announced on November 23. The committee will cast a second vote beginning on November 30 to determine the recipient. (SoonerSports.com)

State trio Doak Walker Award preseason candidates: NewsOK.com

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Report: Oklahoma commitment Jarrett Lake ruled ineligible for upcoming season: As first reported Monday on tulsaworld.com , the Oklahoma Secondary School Activities Association has ruled that Jarrett Lake, a highly regarded football recruit who has committed to the University of Oklahoma, is ineligible for the upcoming year. Lake, who will be a senior this season, participated in football games last season, and that could force Jenks to forfeit those games. Jenks finished 12-2 in 2008. Both of the Trojans' losses were to Union, including a 34-20 setback in the Class 6A state championship game. According to statistics from Jenks games, Lake participated in at least nine of the Trojans' wins. It's unclear if the school would have to forfeit some or all of those games. Jenks is expected to appeal the OSSAA's ruling at the association's monthly board meeting on Aug. 11. Neither the OSSAA nor Jenks High School would confirm the player was Lake, but multiple sources identified him as the player whose eligibility has been questioned. (More at Tulsa World)

Related:
Oklahoma Sooners Football Recruiting

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OU's Sam Bradford highlights O'Brien Watch List: Oklahoma's Sam Bradford will get the chance to defend his Davey O'Brien National Quarterback Award title. And Oklahoma State's Zac Robinson is one of the quarterbacks he'll have to fend off. Both in-state stars were named to the Davey O’Brien watch list released Monday afternoon. The Davey O'Brien annually is awarded to the top quarterback in college football. In all, 33 quarterbacks were placed on the watch list, which included six from the Big 12: Bradford, Robinson, Robert Griffin (Baylor), Colt McCoy (Texas) Taylor Potts (Texas Tech) and Todd Reesing (Kansas). (The Oklahoman)

Which Sooners will make watch lists: The Oklahoman

Texas-OU reaching the boiling point: Rockwall County Herald Banner

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OU and Army announce home-and-home series beginning in 2018: Oklahoma and Army have signed an agreement to begin a two-game football series in 2018. OU and the United States Military Academy made the joint announcement today. The Sooners will host the Black Knights on Sept. 22, 2018, then travel to West Point, NY, to return the game on Sept. 26, 2020. "Naturally, we're thrilled to announce this agreement with Army," said OU Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics Programs & Director of Athletics Joe Castiglione. "We have tremendous respect for what the Academy represents and will be privileged to share the football field with its team. "We also recognize the large number of military personnel serving in the general vicinity of Norman and we hope that this series intrigues and excites them just as it does us. And, of course, on the return game, we will be very near New York City, which provides very good East Coast exposure for our program and university." The games will represent the fourth and fifth between the two institutions, who have not met since 1961. OU leads the series, 2-1. (SoonerSports.com)

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Annual Meet the Sooners Day to be held Friday: One of the most popular traditions surrounding the Oklahoma football program is Meet the Sooners Day. The annual event kicks off preseason practice and gives the Sooner Nation a unique opportunity to interact with the Sooner players and coaches. The 2009 Meet the Sooners Day is slated for Friday, Aug. 7 at the rugby practice fields west of Lloyd Noble Center. Gates will open at approximately 10 a.m. for OG&E Sooner Kids Club members and at approximately 10:30 a.m. for the general public. Fans are permitted to bring ONE autograph item per person - no exceptions. Admission to Meet the Sooners Day is free and open to the public. The event is subject to cancellation due to inclement weather. Stay tuned to SoonerSports.com for the latest official information. Members of the OG&E Sooner Kids Club are admitted to the event 30 minutes prior to the general public. One parent per Sooner Kids Club member is allowed in the early line and fans are allowed one item per person to be autographed. (More Info at SoonerSports.com)

OU football sitting pretty for 2010: The Oklahoman

Sooners sticking together: The Tulsa World

OU, UT quarterbacks observe cold war detente during off-season: Muskogee Phoenix

There was never any doubt for Roy Finch, he was Oklahoma bound: Orlando Sentinel

Florida, Oklahoma and Texas will highlight season: Orlando Sentinel

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