November 30, 2009

Stoops Denies ESPN Rumor

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Within hours after Notre Dame's official firing of Charlie Weis.

Oklahoma coach Bob Stoops offered another denial saying he won't coach the Irish, and he'll be coaching Oklahoma next year, after television reports on Monday evening continued to say Stoops would be named Notre Dame's next head coach.

Early Monday evening, ESPN's Adam Schefter reported on-air, one NFL source told him, Stoops would be Notre Dame's next head coach. "One NFL source," Schefter reported, "goes so far as to say he believes an agreement is all but a formality, with some details, likely including the Oklahoma contract, still to be resolved."

However, late Monday evening, Bob Stoops denied the report.

"I stand by the comments that I made earlier today. I will be at Oklahoma. Any reporting to the contrary is completely unfounded," Stoops said in a statement.

Previous Post:
Again, Bob Stoops Denies Interest in Notre Dame
Bob Stoops to Notre Dame Rumors Pick Up Steam
Stoops Denies Interest in Irish
Stoops Interested In Notre Dame?

Poll: Will Stoops Be Named Notre Dame's Next HC?

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Oklahoma coach Bob Stoops has denied he's interested in Notre Dame. However, on Monday, he wouldn't confirm nor deny if he'd interview for any job. The question, despite Stoops' denial, will Bob Stoops be named Notre Dame's next head coach?



Previous Post:
Again, Bob Stoops Denies Interest in Notre Dame
Bob Stoops to Notre Dame Rumors Pick Up Steam
Stoops Denies Interest in Irish
Stoops Interested In Notre Dame?

Again, Bob Stoops Denies Interest in Notre Dame

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Oklahoma coach Bob Stoops vehemently denied he's interested in Notre Dame's head coaching job, he told reporters on Monday, after rumors swirled Stoops would meet with Notre Dame school officials.

"I'm going to be at Oklahoma next year," he said. "If Joe (Castiglione) will have me and President (David) Boren, that's what I intend to do." Stoops, added: "I can't be at two places at once."

However, Stoops did not confirm nor deny he had any contact with Notre Dame officials. "I will never confirm or deny whether I talk or not talk to anybody, and I won't be interviewing for any jobs," he said.

On Monday, Notre Dame fired head coach Charlie Weis after five seasons with the Irish. The school named Rob Ianello, wide receivers coach, as interim head coach for Notre Dame's bowl game.

With Weis fired -- Notre Dame will reportedly target Oklahoma head coach Bob Stoops. On Friday, the Chicago Sun-Times, citing an unnamed source, reported "A university source has Oklahoma's Bob Stoops at the very top of ND athletic director Jack Swarbrick's wish list."

Stoops signed a contract in June, through 2015, reportedly valued over $30 million dollars. However, Notre Dame will reportedly buyout Weis' contract worth $16-20 million dollars, while the school reportedly has an endowment of over $5 billion dollars.

On Monday evening, ESPN's Adam Schefter reported, one NFL source with close Notre Dame ties believed it's all but a formality that Stoops would be named Notre Dame's next head coach with only details in the Oklahoma contract to be resolved.

Related:
Poll: Will Stoops Be Named Notre Dame's Next HC?

Previous Post:
Bob Stoops to Notre Dame Rumors Pick Up Steam
Stoops Denies Interest in Irish
Stoops Interested In Notre Dame?

Wilson Skeptical About Stoops Rumors

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Report: Rumors of Stoops being interested in talking to ND are untrue: OU offensive coordinator Kevin Wilson, who was out Sunday recruiting with Stoops, told The Oklahoman Sunday night he didn't think there was anything to the Notre Dame rumors, though admitted "Bob doesn't talk about that stuff." Another source close to the program told The Oklahoman reports that Stoops is interested in talking about the Notre Dame job are untrue. (The Oklahoman)

November 29, 2009

Bob Stoops to Notre Dame Rumors Pick Up Steam

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Oklahoma Sooners ended their regular season (7-5) Saturday shuting out No. 12 Oklahoma State, 27-0, in Norman. Oklahoma coach Bob Stoops and OU defense forced Oklahoma State's first shutout since 2005.

Shortly, following Oklahoma's Bedlam win, silly season rumors ratched up with rumors of Stoops flying to South Bend to meet with Irish officials on Sunday, to rumors of, Notre Dame officials were in Norman to observe Saturday's game.

Speculation was fueled when Tony Barnhart, CBS Sports analyst, cited unnamed sources saying Stoops would fly to Notre Dame "as early as tomorrow" to have a sit-down with school officials.

However, late Saturday, the rumor of Stoops and Irish holding conversations about the replacement of current ND head coach Charlie Weis was dismissed by Jack Swarbrick, Notre Dame Athletics Director.

"Any version of anything you hear in the contact with a coach are absolutely false," Swarbrick said before Saturday night's Notre Dame-Stanford game. "We haven't talked to anybody. We haven't authorized anybody to talk to anybody. It's simply not true.

"We'll engage in the evaluation in earnest following this game, then we'll go from there."

ESPN's Kirk Herbstreit said on ABC's Saturday night football telecast of ND-Stanford, he spoke with Stoops following Saturday's Bedlam game. Stoops assured Herbstreit, he or his agent hasn't spoke with Notre Dame officials.

In addition, Stoops explicitly denied the CBS report in a text message to Tulsa World. According to Tulsa World, Stoops replied in a text that, "On the record, I'm not interviewing. This is the first I've hear of this (rumor)."

On Friday, there was a published report that Stoops was atop Notre Dame's coaching wishlist. The Chicago Sun-Times, citing an unnamed source, reported "A university source has Oklahoma's Bob Stoops at the very top of ND athletic director Jack Swarbrick's wish list."

Among the coaches, who are thought, to be on ND's wishlist are Brian Kelly, Gary Patterson, Bob Stoops and Urban Meyer.

Notre Dame lost to Stanford 45-38, in likely Weis' last game as Notre Dame's head coach.

Previous Post:
Stoops Denies Interest in Irish
Stoops Interested In Notre Dame?
*Corrected

November 28, 2009

Sooners Shutout Cowboys

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Sooners defeat Cowboys, 27-0: Ryan Broyles totaled over 300 all-purpose yards and returned a punt for a touchdown, as Oklahoma smothered 11th-ranked Oklahoma State, 27-0. Broyles finished with 209 yards on punt returns, caught nine passes for 103 yards and had four yards on two carries. Landry Jones completed 20-of-37 passes for 224 yards for the Sooners (7-5, 5-3 Big 12), who won two of their last three games to end a disappointing regular season. Back under center after missing one game with a shoulder injury, Zac Robinson struggled for the Cowboys (9-3, 6-2), throwing for just 44 yards and one interception on 9-of-21 attempts. (SportsNetwork)

Game Day: OU-OSU Articles and Notes

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Report: Trent Williams to miss Bedlam: Oklahoma senior tackle Trent Williams said Tuesday he wanted to "go out with some type of legacy." Unfortunately for him, that legacy could be missing his final home game. Oklahoma City television station KFOR reported Friday night that Williams sustained a concussion in practice and would miss Saturday's season finale against Oklahoma State. Team sources did not return text messages seeking confirmation, but multiple Web sites, citing team sources, reported that Williams' absence from the 11:30 a.m. game was only a possibility and that Williams would be examined further before the game.(Tulsa World) Confirmed: OL Trent Williams is in street clothes, TE Eric Mensik likely to see playing time on offensive line. (twitter.com/oklafootball)

OSU's 'next step': beating the Sooners in Norman: Tulsa World

Bedlam an appropriate description of season, too: Tulsa World

OU Football Notebook: Kick-started: Tulsa World

Bob Stoops still loves his job despite his critics: Fort Worth Star-Telegram

There is just something mystical about Oklahoma and Owen Field: The Oklahoman

Bedlam Rivalry Divides Barbershop: NewsOn6.com

Oklahoma's quarterback of the future?: The Norman Transcript

Injured QB Zac Robinson expected back for Sooners: Tulsa Beacon

Home away from home: Stillwater NewsPress

November 27, 2009

Latest on Ryan Reynolds' Injury

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Stoops: Outside chance [Reynold's] will play: Oklahoma coach Bob Stoops said Tuesday linebacker Ryan Reynolds has "an outside chance" to play in Saturday's game against Oklahoma State, though it seems unlikely after a hamstring injury knocked him out of the second half at Texas Tech. Reynolds did not practice Monday or Tuesday. Stoops also said Reynolds "probably" would play in a bowl game. (Tulsa World)

OU's Box invested in rivalry: Tulsa World

This year's Sooners have plenty to prove: The Oklahoman

OU football notebook: Losses haven't hurt preparation: The Oklahoman

November 25, 2009

Ten Sooners Named to Big 12 All-Academic Team

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20 players from OU, OSU named to Big 12 football All-Academic team: Oklahoma and Oklahoma State each had 10 players make the Big 12 football All-Academic team, which comprised 170 overall Big 12 football players. Six Cowboys made the first team, which requires a grade-point average of 3.20 or better: Senior offensive lineman Andrew Lewis, senior Mark Chestnut, junior Shane Jarka, sophomore Victor Johnson and freshmen Lane Taylor and Brodrick Brown. Two Sooners, fullback Brandon Crow and defensive end Auston English, made the first team, which requires a grade-point average of 3.20 or better. Crow is a special studies major. English is working on a graduate degree in social work. Sooners Ben Habern, Tola Jimoh, Travis Lewis, DeMarco Murray, Jonathan Nelson, Jimmy Stevens, Adrian Taylor and Carter Whitson made the second team, which requires a grade-point average between a 3.0 and a 3.19. From OSU, juniors Kendall Hunter and Chris Donaldson, sophomore Jamie Blatnick and freshman Cooper Bassett made the second team. (The Oklahoman)

November 24, 2009

Simmons: I Could Have Played Better

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Injured OL Brian Simmons felt OK after Tech game: Senior offensive lineman Brian Simmons had no adverse effects through the weekend after returning from a knee injury on Saturday. Though the knee was still heavily wrapped Monday, Simmons said he didn't have to come in Sunday for any extra treatment. He said he didn't have any outstanding pain after the return. "I kind of doubted if I'd be able to perform as well," he said. "But I did for the most part. I think I played OK coming back from an injury, but to my normal standards, I could have played better." (The Oklahoman)

Does Sam Bradford Prove That Oklahoma Is a Lousy Team?: Bleacher Report

Walk-On to Make First Start at Center

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Lepak to make first start at center: Brian Lepak is making his first Oklahoma start at center Saturday. If the Sooners beat Oklahoma State, Bob Stoops maintains an 11-year run of winning regular seasons. If they don't, the Cowboys bask in a BCS glow that should just about blind whatever forgettable bowl 6-6 OU qualifies for. It's a pretty big moment for a guy who chose Colorado State over Tulsa and TCU coming out of Claremore High School, a transfer who the Sooners took as a walk-on a year and a half ago. "I anticipate him having a great week," said OU offensive line coach James Patton, who plugged Lepak in for center Ben Habern last Saturday at Texas Tech after Habern broke his leg in the second quarter. "I'm not worried about him," said senior left tackle Trent Williams. "I have a lot of faith in him, honestly," said senior left guard Brian Simmons. (Tulsa World)

Got it made: Oklahoma's Patrick O'Hara seizes role: The Oklahoman

Losses Are Mounting for Oklahoma: NYTimes.com

OU, OSU focusing on normalcy: Tulsa World

Sooners spoilers?: The Norman Transcript

What happened?: The Norman Transcript

November 23, 2009

Stoops: Reynolds Doubtful vs. OSU

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Stoops: Ryan Reynolds likely to miss Bedlam: Oklahoma football coach Bob Stoops says it's doubtful starting middle linebacker Ryan Reynolds will play in the Sooners' rivalry game this week against No. 11 Oklahoma State.
Reynolds strained his hamstring in the Sooners' 41-13 loss at Texas Tech on Saturday and was replaced by Austin Box. (AP/The Oklahoman)

Adrian Taylor Expected to Play

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Despite injury Adrian Taylor expected play vs OSU: For once, the injury news out of Oklahoma on Monday morning was encouraging. Defensive tackle Adrian Taylor, who hurt his lower leg during Saturday's 41-13 loss at Texas Tech, should be in OU's lineup Saturday against Oklahoma State. Asked on the Big 12 teleconference what exactly Taylor injured, OU coach Bob Stoops replied: "I'd rather not say, because I believe he's going to be able to play." (Tulsa World)

OU football: Road wrecked: Tulsa World

It's a year of bedlam for both teams: Tulsa World

OU likely headed for the Sun Bowl: The Oklahoman

OSU looks like Cotton Bowl at worst; OU looks like Sun Bowl at best: The Oklahoman

Breaking down Oklahoma: The Oklahoman

OU Insider: Losing season possible: The Oklahoman

November 22, 2009

Report: Reynolds Out For Bedlam

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Oklahoma LB Ryan Reynolds likely to miss Bedlam: OU's starting middle linebacker Ryan Reynolds will not play against Oklahoma State next Saturday after sustaining a hamstring injury in the loss yesterday at Texas Tech. The loss of Reynolds is considered especially significant because he is the leader of the defense, calls out assignments, and specializes in stopping the run. Oklahoma State leads the conference in rushing. (OKBlitz.com)

OU's Habern Out For Season

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Habern latest Sooner bitten by injury bug: Ben Habern joins a long list of Sooners announced out for the season. Habern, freshman Oklahoma center, suffered a broken fibula in Saturday's 41-13 loss to Texas Tech.

Oklahoma coach Bob Stoops announced, after the game, Habern had suffered a broken fibula midway through the second quarter and would be out remainder of the season. He joins a list of nearly a dozen starters, Sam Bradford, Jermaine Gresham, Brody Eldridge, Austin English and Ryan Broyles among them, who missed a game or suffered a season ending injury.

Saturday's loss is Oklahoma's 5th this season, tying the most under Bob Stoops in a season, and most for OU since 1999.

November 21, 2009

Red Raiders Rout Sooners

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Texas Tech routs Oklahoma, 41-13: Taylor Potts threw for 388 yards and two touchdowns as Texas Tech beat Oklahoma 41-13 on Saturday for its most lopsided win ever over the Sooners. Baron Batch ran for 136 yards and two scores for the Red Raiders (7-4, 4-3 Big 12), who became bowl eligible for the 16th straight season. Oklahoma (6-5, 4-3) has its most losses since going 7-5 in 1999. (AP)

Game Day: OU-Texas Tech Articles and Notes

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Sooners can bump up their stock as a top tier bowl entrant today: Norman Transcript

Offense owes the defense today in Lubbock: Norman Transcript

Is Stoops leaving OU? Don't count on it: Tulsa World

Home & Away : Tulsa World:

 OU aims to smother Tech: Tulsa World

Emails in on Stoops/Notre Dame, Mangino and OU uniforms: The Oklahoman

Sooners might need some ‘Magic’ today: The Oklahoman

Oklahoma Sooners’ Murray, Broyles can turn short into long gone: Fort Worth Star Telegram

It’s senior day at Tech, and lately the Red Raiders have made it count: Red Raiders.com

As injuries mounted, Tech, OU fell short of goals this season: Red Raiders.com

November 20, 2009

Limited Bedlam Tickets Available

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Limited Bedlam tickets on sale Friday: A limited number of tickets for the Bedlam football game between Oklahoma and Oklahoma State on Nov. 28 will be on sale Friday morning at 8 a.m. The tickets are $99 and can be purchased by calling the OU ticket office at (800) 456-4668 or 325-2424 or online at www.soonersports.com.

November 19, 2009

Three Sooners Listed on Kiper's Latest Big Board

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ESPN analyst and draft guru Mel Kiper updated his "Big Board" for the 2010 NFL Draft with a few changes. Released yesterday, Kiper ranked three Sooners on his board, Nebraska's DT Ndamukong Suh topped Kiper's rankings.

Here's look at rankings of Sooners and Big 12 players on Kiper's latest draft board:

Ranking, Player, Position, Team and Last week's ranking
1. Ndamukong Suh, DT Nebraska - Same
2. Gerald McCoy, DT Oklahoma - Up One
3. Eric Berry, S Tennessee - Down One
4. Carlos Dunlap, DE Florida - Same
5. Sam Bradford, QB Oklahoma - Same
6. Russell Okung, OT Oklahoma State
7. Jake Locker, QB Washington
8. Jimmy Clausen, QB Notre Dame
9. Taylor Mays, S USC
10. Joe Haden, CB Florida
11. Dez Bryant, WR Oklahoma State
18. Sean Wetherspoon, LB Missouri
20. Sergio Kindle, DE/OLB Texas
21. Jermaine Gresham, TE Oklahoma
22. Colt McCoy, QB Texas

Link: The new Big Board as of Nov. 18

Stoops Supports Embattled Ex-Assistant

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Oklahoma coach Bob Stoops is standing by his former assistant and University of Kansas football coach Mark Mangino. Mangino, who is facing an internal KU athletics department investigation into alleged mistreatment of players after some voiced concerned.

Mangino has denied any mistreatment of players. "I run this program with a lot of integrity," Mangino told the Kansas City Star.

Stoops concurs saying Mangino has always been close to and concerned about his players.

Mangino served as Stoops' offense coordinator at Oklahoma from 2000-2001

OU Football Ranks Last In Graduation Rates

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Oklahoma's football graduation rates ranks last in Big 12: Oklahoma's football team had the worst graduation rates in the Big 12 under the most recent data released by the NCAA. According to figures released Wednesday by the NCAA, only 45 percent of the football players who enrolled at Oklahoma between 1999 and 2002 earned their degrees within six years. That period coincides with coach Bob Stoops' first four years as the Sooners' head coach. Federal data that does not factor in players who transfer or enroll at mid-year puts Oklahoma's graduation rate for that period at 37 percent, also the lowest in the Big 12. (AP/KFSM)

Miller Out Remainder of Season

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Jonathan Miller, Oklahoma running back, out remainder of season: Freshman running back Jonathan Miller won't play the rest of the regular season and could miss the bowl game due to a damaged knee cartilage he suffered against Texas A&M. Offensive coordinator Kevin Wilson said Miller will have surgery this week and could miss a couple weeks, which would bring him back in time for a bowl game. Or he could be out for a couple months and maybe miss spring practice. (Norman Transcript)

Notable Injuries:
TE, Jermaine Gresham (season),
QB, Sam Bradford (season),
DT, DeMarcus Granger (season),
DE, Auston English (season),
OL, Jarvis Jones (season),
TE, Brody Eldridge (season)

November 18, 2009

Murray 'Pretty Sure' He'll Return In 2010

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Murray expects to return in 2010: Running back DeMarco Murray thinks he wants to return for his senior year. "That's just something that my family and I will look into," Murray said. "But I'm pretty sure I'll be back here next year." He has thought about his future, though, and for now, the Academic All-American would rather spend 2010 in Norman than in an NFL rookie camp. "I like it here," he said. "I don't want to end my career at OU with an 8-4 record or whatever. So just trying to get better. And I just enjoy being here. I'm part of a great team here; I love the coaching staff, things like that. I love the camaraderie with my teammates. It's just a great atmosphere." (Tulsa World)

Sooners must be ready for any strange happenings in Lubbock: Tulsa World

One Dynamic Sooner Defense: Tulsa World

Ronnell Lewis perseveres for Sooners despite disorder: The Oklahoman

Sooners try to end losing ways in Lubbock: Dallas Morning News

Walk-On O'Hara Might Start At Kicker

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After a season of woes on special teams, Oklahoma will likely start another at kicker. Patrick O'Hara, walk-on from Kansas, took over kicking duties from Tress Way and Jimmy Stevens in Oklahoma's win Saturday night against Texas A&M.

On Tuesday, Oklahoma coach Bob Stoops commented on if O'Hara would start Saturday at kicker against Texas Tech.
"We'll see. Again, ongoing battle here through the week. Patty O'Hara looked pretty good there toward the end. We'll see if he can maintain consistency here through the week. He's traveled all year. I've always had him ready for real long ones, he's got a real strong leg. He just occasionally loses control of it at practice. But he's been more and more consistent and I like what he did Saturday night. He looked good yesterday."
In Saturday's game, O'Hara kicked a pair of extra points and 26-yard field goal, including a 62-yard field goal during Saturday's pregame warm-ups.

O'Hara was thrilled at the opportunity to kick for the Sooners, when asked, he described it as "an incredible experience," O'Hara replied.

Nike Unveils Oklahoma's Pro Combat Uniform

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University of Oklahoma announced, this weekend's game at Texas Tech, the Sooners will unveil Nike's latest football technology, Pro Combat series, a super light-weight uniform.

In addition, debuting the company's new technology, Oklahoma, Florida State, Miami are among programs featuring throwback uniforms designed by Nike.

Drawing inspiration from Sooner history the throwback uniform design honors, Oklahoma's college football reign in the 1950s, Bud Wilkinson's famed "fast break offense" that led the nation in scoring and won National Championships in 1955 and 1956. In addition, the design features retro all-white helmets honoring Oklahoma teams from 1946-1956.

Nike will officially roll-out the technology to schools at the start of the 2010 season.

More photos available here.

November 17, 2009

Stoops Denies Interest in Irish

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Monday night Oklahoma coach Bob Stoops denied any interest in Notre Dame's head coaching position. After a report first published by Chicago Sun-Times, citing an anonymous source, Stoops had told confidants he would be interested in talking to the Irish.

Stoops, however, went on to call the rumor "ridiculous" on Monday Night.

Stoops after practice told reporters:
"There's not even a job (open) at Notre Dame," said Oklahoma coach Bob Stoops.
He also added:
"That's ridiculous. Some guy makes stuff up."
Related: Stoops interested in Notre Dame?

November 16, 2009

Stoops Interested In Notre Dame?

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As the college football season nears an end, silly-season rumors are picking up. And to no one's surprise, rumors concerning Oklahoma coach Bob Stoops arise after arguably the most challenging and unpredictable season in Stoops' tenure. According to Chicago Sun-Times, Oklahoma's Bob Stoops is reportedly interested in Notre Dame if Charlie Weis is fired (as expected).

The paper cites an anonymous source, saying...
[Bob] Stoops has told confidants he would be interested in talking to the Irish.
Other names being mentioned are -- former NFL head coach Jon Gruden, Cincinnati's Brian Kelly and Iowa's Kirk Ferentz.

Stoops in June signed an extension with Oklahoma, reportedly valued over $30 million dollars, through 2015.

November 15, 2009

Post Game: OU vs Texas A&M Articles and Notes

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Mensik plays at TE and RT: Oklahoma's Eric Mensik started the game against Texas A&M at tight end, but in the 3rd quarter moved to right tackle in replace of Cory Brandon. "We don't like to (play Eric at both positions), but we're in that situation," said Oklahoma coach Bob Stoops.

Jones Career High: Landry Jones' 392 passing yards is a career best and the seventh most in school history. Jones also tossed for 336 vs. Tulsa earlier this season.

Murray reception: DeMarco Murray recorded a career-long 67-yard reception for a touchdown in the third quarter.

Sooners and their odds look better after rout of A&M: The Oklahoman

DeMarco Murray, offense get back on track as OU routs Texas A&M 65-10: The Oklahoman

Texas A&M return game gaffes gave OU momentum: The Oklahoman

OU coach Bob Stoops uses three kickers, settles on Patrick O'Hara: The Oklahoman

Notebook: Texas A&M sack master Von Miller shut down by Sooners: The Oklahoman

OU 65, Texas A&M 10: Thoughts and observations: The Oklahoman

This time, OU's Brian Jackson able to outrun QB and score on fumble return: The Oklahoman

Recap: Oklahoma vs. Texas A&M: The News Tribune

OU Notebook: More mild than wild: Tulsa World

Home remedy: Tulsa World

OU's defense has delivered this year: Tulsa World

Murray a dual threat: Tulsa World

Sooners Offense Rolls Past Aggies

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Sooners defeat Aggies, 65-10: Five interceptions one week. Five touchdowns the next. Such is life as a freshman quarterback for Oklahoma's Landry Jones. A week after Oklahoma failed to reach the end zone for the first time in Bob Stoops' 11 seasons as coach, the scores came in bunches for the Sooners -- and particularly for Jones, who passed for a career-high 392 yards and five touchdowns as Oklahoma became bowl-eligible with a 65-10 rout of Texas A&M on Saturday night. (Dallas Morning News/AP)

November 14, 2009

Live Blog: Texas A&M Aggies vs Oklahoma Sooners

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Oklahoma (5-4) host Texas A&M (5-4) tonight in Norman with both teams seeking bowl eligibility, the Sooners unranked for the first time since December 2005 hope to avoid a disastrous 5-5 record. Oklahoma's season has been plagued with injuries, losing All-Americans Jermaine Gresham and Sam Bradford, worsened this week with loss of Brody Eldridge (shoulder), Jarvis Jones (heel) and Auston English (foot) for the season. That puts a total of five starters out for the season.

The bright spot, if there was one, is the emergence of Landry Jones and other young talent on offense. However, last weekend for the first time in more than a decade the Oklahoma offense failed to score a touchdown in a 10-3 loss to Nebraska. Jones, who threw five interceptions in the game, and the offensive unit, hounded by penalties and missed opportunities, took a step backwards.

The Aggies coming off a 34-35 loss to Colorado last weekend, haven't beat the Sooners since 2002, hope to turn around a lopsided Oklahoma series in their favor. If the Aggies have any chance against the Sooners, A&M hopes their defense pressures Landry Jones into mistakes. A&M hopes Von Miller, who leads the nation in sacks, has a huge game.

Now with all that said.... If the Sooners win tonight, Oklahoma could still finish second in Big 12 south. However, an Oklahoma loss will put them ahead of only Baylor in the Big 12 South.

So feel free to join the live blog.



Related Link:
Oklahoma vs Texas A&M - Next Game Page

Game Day: OU-Texas A&M Articles and Notes

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Texas A&M at Oklahoma Previews:
Dallas Morning News

OU's defense has delivered this year: Tulsa World

Sooners need a reminder that season's not over yet: Tulsa World

Sooners in danger of posting irrelevant season: Norman Transcript

Sooners left to maintain the tradition of those who came before: Norman Transcript

A&M aware upset of OU at Norman within reach: Houston Chronicle

Oklahoma quarterback Jones looks to bounce back from mistakes: Star-Telegram

Sooners, Aggies seek bowl eligibility: Dallas Morning News

November 12, 2009

Jeffries Questionable Against Texas A&M

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Oklahoma offensive lineman Tavaris Jeffries suffers injury: Oklahoma guard Tavaris Jeffries bruised his shoulder during Tuesday's football practice and is questionable for Saturday's game against Texas A&M. Coach Bob Stoops said Wednesday that Jeffries hasn't been ruled out for the game and is still hopeful he'll be able to play. (The Oklahoman)

Related:
 Jarvis Jones Out Remainder Of Season (Tues.)
Sooners Lose Two More Starters (Tues.)

November 11, 2009

OU to Debut Nike's Pro Combat Uniforms

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Oklahoma to debut new uniforms on Nov. 21: The Sooners will be wearing specially designed, state-of-the-art Nike uniforms called Nike Pro Combat, which the company calls "football's lightest system of dress ever created." OU is one of 10 schools that's been nationally selected to provide a sneak peak of the new uniform before they are officially introduced in 2010. One OU player said the Sooners will wear white helmets with gray facemasks as part of a throwback look. (The Oklahoman)

AD Endroses Pro Combat: In following commerical Adrian Peterson, Minnesota Viking & former Oklahoma running back, promotes Nike's Pro Combat uniform.



From Nike:
The Nike Pro Combat uniform is 37 percent lighter than current designs (23.7 ounces vs. 37.4 ounces). Nike utilized a four-way stretch twill that does not hold sweat or water and as a result, the new uniforms are 46 percent lighter than the current designs when wet. Overall, the Nike Pro Combat uniform, when wet, is still lighter than the current design when completely dry.

McCoy Named Lombardi Finalist

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Oklahoma's Gerald McCoy a Lombardi Award finalist: Oklahoma defensive tackle Gerald McCoy was named one of four finalists for the 2009 Rotary Lombardi Award as The Rotary Club of Houston announced its selections Tuesday. McCoy joins Alabama's Terrence Cody, TCU's Jerry Hughes and Nebraska's Ndamukong Suh as a finalist as the junior looks to become Oklahoma's fourth Lombardi Award winner and first since Tommie Harris in 2003. This year's winner will be announced at an awards dinner on Dec. 9 at the Hilton Americas Hotel in downtown Houston. McCoy, the only non-senior of the four finalists, has recorded 55 percent of his tackles behind the line of scrimmage. The Oklahoma City native currently leads the Sooners with eight quarterback hurries while accumulating 3.5 sacks and 17 solo tackles. Along with Harris' Lombardi win in 2003, Tony Casillas (1985) and Lee Roy Selmon (1975) had previously won the honor. (SoonerSports PR)

Related:
Previous Oklahoma Award Winners

November 10, 2009

Jarvis Jones Out Remainder Of Season

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Oklahoma OL Jarvis Jones out remainder of season: On Tuesday, University of Oklahoma coach Bob Stoops announced Jarvis Jones, backup offensive lineman, will be out remainder of the season. Jones, started six games this season, fractured his heel on Saturday in Oklahoma's loss against Nebraska.

More To Come

Sooners Lose Two More Starters

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Eldridge, English out for season: Defensive end Auston English and tight end/guard Brody Eldridge suffered season-ending injuries Saturday at Nebraska, Oklahoma coach Bob Stoops said Monday. English is scheduled for surgery today to repair a torn tendon in his foot. Eldridge has an AC joint sprain -- the same type shoulder injury that sidelined quarterback Sam Bradford -- but Stoops said his course of treatment has yet to be determined. "[Eldridge's] total situation I will talk about once I have more details," Stoops said. (Star-Telegram)

Bedlam Kickoff Set For 11:30 A.M.

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Big 12 Conference announced the network and kickoff time for Oklahoma's final two regular season football games of the year. OU's game at Texas Tech (Nov. 21) and home against Oklahoma State (Nov. 28) will both kickoff at 11:30 a.m. and will be televised regionally on Fox Sports Net.

Venables Defends Alexander's Penalty

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Venables defends Frank Alexander's personal foul penalty: OU is one of three teams in the Football Bowl Subdivision with over 700 yards in penalties, joining Texas Tech and Arizona State. Three personal fouls made up the bulk of the Sooners' 64 yards in infractions Saturday night. One was whistled against defensive end Frank Alexander, and it helped Nebraska in its third-quarter drive to a field goal. Sunday, however, defensive coordinator Brent Venables took issue with the call. "He was protecting himself," Venables said. "The guy (who Alexander hit to get the penalty) was coming to block him after the ball was out of bounds. He actually was looking at the ball and felt the guy coming from his blind side and actually just pushed off to protect himself. It happens." (Tulsa World)

The heat's still on in Norman: Tulsa World

Bob Stoops, Landry Jones, Sooners Hit New Lows: Bleacher Report

Questions swirl around Sooners: Examiner

'Sooner Magic' appears to have dried up this season: ESPN.com

November 9, 2009

Eldridge To Miss Texas A&M Game

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OU's Brody Eldridge to miss Saturday's Texas A&M game: An Oklahoma offensive line already hounded by penalties and shoddy blocking will be without its most consistent member Saturday night against Texas A&M. Sooners coach Bob Stoops said Monday that starting left guard Brody Eldridge will miss the 6 p.m. matchup with the Aggies due to a shoulder injury sustained during last Saturday's 10-3 loss at Nebraska. Eldridge, according to both Stoops and offensive coordinator Kevin Wilson, has been OU's highest-grading lineman since moving to guard from tight end before the Oct. 17 game against Texas. (Tulsa World) NOTE: Stoops did not give an update on defensive end Auston English's status concerning Saturday's game.

Lineman Jeffries Is Anticipated to Return

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Tavaris Jeffries expected back: Junior offensive lineman Tavaris Jeffries was suspended against Kansas and did not make the trip. Jeffries also did not travel with the team for Saturday's loss, but this time, it was because of a "major family issue" that forced him to leave the team. Wilson said he anticipated Jeffries would return to the team. (The Oklahoman)

Related: Stoops Wasn't As Optimistic About O-Line

Four questions about OU football: The Oklahoman

OU game plan misfired vs. Nebraska: The Oklahoman

OU Insider: Is this the worst Sooner team of the decade?: The Oklahoman

Oklahoma out of AP poll, Stanford in : The Associated Press

Oklahoma, Texas A&M reflect Big 12's struggles: Dallas Morning News

Losses leave OU, TU with uncertain futures: Tulsa World

Notebook: Tulsa World

Sooner magic? Not this year: The Enid News and Eagle

November 8, 2009

Post Game: OU vs Nebraska Articles and Notes

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Over a year since last opponent scored TD in 1st quarter: Oklahoma has not allowed a single point in the first quarter in 11 straight games dating back to last season (Missouri and Florida). The Sooners have allowed only three first-quarter points in the last 15 games. Kansas State was the last opponent to score a TD in the first quarter (Oct. 25, 2008). (PR)

Jones ties school record for pass attempts: Landry Jones 58 pass attempts ties a school record for pass attempts in game. Josh Heupel also had 58 pass attempts against Colorado in 1999.

Oklahoma last game without a TD: Oklahoma's three total points marked the lowest scoring total in the Stoops' era, surpassing the seven points in the 35-7 2003 Big 12 Championship loss to Kansas State. The game also marked the first time that OU had failed to score a touchdown since a 29-0 loss at Texas A&M in 1998. (PR)

McCoy consecutive starts: Gerald McCoy made his 36th consecutive start Saturday night to put the junior in a tie with Rick Bryan (1980-83) and Bob Slater (1981-83) for the second-longest consecutive streak start for interior defensive linemen.

Brown enters top 10 in rushing yards: Chris Brown moved to No. 10 on the career rushing yards chart with 50 yards Saturday. Brown now has 2,734 career yards. Lydell Carr (1984-87) ranks ninth with 2,910 yards. Brown also ranks eighth with 577 career rushing attempts. De'Mond Parker (1996-98) is seventh with 579 attempts.

OU report card: Mixed reviews of Sooners' performance: The Oklahoman

Landry Jones intercepted 5 times as Nebraska upsets Oklahoma: The Oklahoman

OU's kicking struggles continue as Tress Way misses 3 field goals: The Oklahoman

Bad year for OU gets worse in Lincoln: The Oklahoman

OU's collapse a team effort: Tulsa World

U-G-L-Y: Sooners look bad in loss: Tulsa World

Offense lets OU down in Nebraska: Tulsa World

Finishing problems: The Norman Transcript

Can some of these guys suit up?: The Omaha World-Herald

‘Unsound' offense plagues Sooners: The Omaha World-Herald

Nebraska intercepts OU's Jones 5 times in 10-3 win: Washington Post

Sooners Drop Out Of Top 25

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After Oklahoma's 10-3 loss to Nebraska on Saturday night, the Sooners for the first time since the 2005 season are unranked in the Associated Press poll.

AP Poll
RK TEAM (1st Place Votes) RECORD PTS
1 Florida (39) 9-0 1467
2 Texas (10) 9-0 1430
3 Alabama (11) 9-0 1422
4 TCU 9-0 1271
5 Cincinnati 9-0 1263
6 Boise State 9-0 1228
7 Georgia Tech 9-1 1127
8 Pittsburgh 8-1 945
9 LSU 7-2 904
10 Ohio State 8-2 898
17 Oklahoma State 7-2 492

USA Today Coaches Poll
1 Florida (48) 9-0 1460
2 Texas (4) 9-0 1399
3 Alabama (7) 9-0 1389
4 TCU 9-0 1262
5 Cincinnati 9-0 1224
6 Boise State 9-0 1200
7 Georgia Tech 9-1 1118
8 Ohio State 8-2 944
9 Pittsburgh 8-1 940
10 USC 7-2 847
18 Oklahoma State 7-2 530
36 Oklahoma 5-4 6

Full College Football Top 25 at ESPN.com

Nebraska Defeats Oklahoma, 10-3

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Huskers defeat Sooners; First time Sooners under Bob Stoops did not score a TD: All's not well that doesn't end well. The Oklahoma Sooners, unable to overcome five interceptions thrown by quarterback Landry Jones, three field goal attempts missed by placekicker Tress Way, and bungled timeout management by Head Coach Bob Stoops, lost to the Nebraska Cornhuskers, 10-3, in another tight game Saturday night. (Examiner.com)

November 7, 2009

Game Day: OU-Nebraska Articles and Notes

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OU puts hopes on the line: Tulsa World

Don't expect OU-Nebraska to be annual affair: Tulsa World

All hail Lincoln, Nebraska: The Oklahoman

Sportsmanship spreads: The Oklahoman

OU blitz package with Jake Trotter: The Oklahoman

Ndamukong Suh, Jared Crick will be a test for Oklahoma's offensive line: The Oklahoman

Point/counterpoint: Will Nebraska win the Big 12 North with an upset of OU?: The Oklahoman

Suh, Crick also defend NU offense: The Grand Island Independent

Green looks for improvement in start No. 2: The Grand Island Independent

Husker in Soonerland not afraid of a little paint: Lincoln Journal Star

Oklahoma’s defense looks to find its edge again: Star-Telegram

Husker game day: Nebraska vs. Oklahoma: The Omaha World-Herald

OU, NU D-linemen foresee ‘battle of best’: LJWorld.com

November 6, 2009

Sooners Plan to Keep Punt Formation

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Stoops: No plans to change punt formation: Oklahoma punter Tress Way had a tipped punt travel 42 yards against Kansas State, but coach Bob Stoops says Oklahoma's punt formation, which features a closing gate of three blockers in the backfield, won't change any time soon. "You're not quite as passive up front. It allows your front guys to get out in coverage a little quicker," he said. "It just gives you more guys to get downfield sooner." (The Oklahoman)

Sooner defense anything but basic: The Norman Transcript

Cory Brandon back in the lineup: The Oklahoman

Stoops is confident in special teams: Tulsa World

OU's McCoy an all-around player: HuskerExtra.com

November 5, 2009

Southmoore's Thompson, Haywood Commit to Oklahoma

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QB Kendall Thompson and TE Austin Haywood commit to OU: Southmoore quarterback Kendal Thompson and tight end Austin Haywood have committed to Oklahoma. Thompson, a junior, is the son of former OU quarterback Charles Thompson. Through nine games, Thompson has thrown for 1,903 yards, 23 touchdowns and just five interceptions. He's also run for nine touchdowns. Haywood (6-4, 250), a senior, has scored on 10 of his 26 receptions and five of his 16 rushing carries.  He also has 49 tackles, four sacks, two fumble recoveries, three forced fumbles and two interceptions. (The Oklahoman) Note: Thompson is the second commitment for the 2011 class.

November 4, 2009

Stoops Wasn't As Optimistic About O-Line

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Stoops had doubts about offensive line: Oklahoma coach Bob Stoops admitted Tuesday he wasn't nearly as optimistic about an offensive line replacing four starters as offensive coordinator Kevin Wilson was before the season. He was "a lot more so than I was," Stoops said Tuesday during his weekly press conference. "You never heard me that way." (The Oklahoman)

One-sided Nebraska series fine with OU's Stoops: Dallas Morning News

Neb.'s Pelini expects Robinson back at practice: Dallas Morning News

OU-Nebraska has lost luster: Tulsa World

OU Notebook: To tell the truth: Tulsa World

Bob Stoops wasn’t as optimistic about offensive line: The Oklahoman

Pelini, Stoops have long history in football: Grand Island Independent

Pelini: Green has to earn start: Omaha World Herald

November 3, 2009

Caleb Questionable Against Nebraska

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Sooner WR Brandon Caleb questionable: Outside of the ankle injury to Brandon Caleb, Oklahoma emerged from the Kansas State game in pretty good health. Sooner coach Bob Stoops wasn't ready to give an announcement of Caleb's status for this week's game at Nebraska Monday night. "He's a little bit sore, but we'll see how he goes throughout the week," Stoops said. (Norman Transcript)

OU-Nebraska rivalry has changed: Tulsa World

Strides taken by OU, but Nebraska looms: Tulsa World

Receiver finally hits his stride: Tulsa World

BCS a longshot for OU or OSU: The Oklahoman

High school notebook: OU offers Southmoore duo: The Oklahoman

Andre Ware still predicts 8-4 year for Sooners: The Oklahoman

Big 12 adopts a more defensive personality: Kansas City Star
A defensive struggle?: Omaha World Herald

Stoops, Pelini Reflect on NU-OU series: Nebraska State Paper

Landry Jones Earns Big 12 Honors

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Jones named Big 12 Offensive Player of the Week: For the second time this season, Oklahoma redshirt freshman quarterback Landry Jones has been honored as the Big 12 Conference's Offensive Player of the Week. He shares the honor with Texas Tech running back Baron Batch. Jones completed 26-of-37 passes for 294 yards with four touchdowns and no interceptions in Oklahoma's 42-30 win over Kansas State. KSU closed Oklahoma's lead to five points twice in the fourth quarter and both times Jones directed scoring drives on OU's ensuing possession to extend the advantage, completing 14 consecutive passes on those drives (67 and 68 yards). Kansas State entered the contest averaging 1.4 interceptions per game but was unable to pick off Jones. The Artesia, NM, native now leads the nation's freshmen quarterbacks with 17 touchdown passes this season, six more than any other first-year QB. Other Big 12 honors for the week to Nebraska's Jared Crick on defense and Kansas State's Brandon Banks on special teams. (SoonerSports PR)

November 2, 2009

Right Tackle Position Still Open

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Right tackle spot still open: Five penalties in the Sooners' season-opening loss to Brigham Young put Cory Brandon firmly on the sideline. But the junior right tackle has started in each of Oklahoma's past two games after winning a tight competition with Jarvis Jones at right tackle. "Both those guys have been a little erratic," said offensive coordinator Kevin Wilson. "It's not down on Jarvis or Cory, but we're letting them battle so they'll play better," Wilson said. "Our weakest position has been right tackle." (The Oklahoman)

Sooner defense sees slip-ups against K-State: The Norman Transcript

OU offensive line in sync: The Norman Transcript

This time, OU offense steps up: The Oklahoman

Four questions about OU football: The Oklahoman

OU Insider: Ryan Broyles due big-time honors: The Oklahoman

OU bowl watch: Rematch with LSU or USC two of OU's bowl possibilities: The Oklahoman

Improbable conversion for Sooners: Tulsa World

Miller provides Oklahoma another receiving target: Dallas Morning News

Jones finishing strong: Enid News and Eagle

Kansas State shows amazing improvement: Kansas City Star

Nebraska to battle Sooners in prime time: Grand Island Independent

K-State offense finds life:Topeka Capital Journal

November 1, 2009

Sooners In Top 20 In AP & Coaches Polls

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After the Sooners win over Kansas State, Oklahoma entered the top 20 in both AP and Coaches polls.

AP Poll
RK TEAM (1st PLACE BOTES) RECORD PTS
1 Florida (38) 8-0 1448
2 Texas (13) 8-0 1408
3 Alabama (8) 8-0 1390
4 Cincinnati 8-0 1212
5 Boise State 8-0 1211
6 TCU 8-0 1147
7 Oregon 7-1 1130
8 Iowa 9-0 1127
9 LSU 7-1 1036
10 Georgia Tech 8-1 949
18 Oklahoma State 6-2 361
20 Oklahoma 5-3 348

USA Today Coaches Poll
1 Florida (50) 8-0 1463
2 Texas (4) 8-0 1395
3 Alabama (5) 8-0 1390
4 TCU 8-0 1182
5 Boise State 8-0 1176
6 Iowa 9-0 1161
7 Cincinnati 8-0 1150
8 Oregon 7-1 1079
9 LSU 7-1 1062
10 Penn State 8-1 966
18 Oklahoma State 6-2 371
20 Oklahoma 5-3 313

Sooners Hold Off Wildcats

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Oklahoma defeats Kansas State, 42-30: Before Saturday's game at Oklahoma, Kansas State coach Bill Snyder joked that he wanted to appeal the NCAA and start this contest in the second quarter. Had he gone through with the plan and somehow had that idea approved, the Wildcats would have left Norman with an impressive victory. Instead, they were outscored by 21 points in the first quarter and lost 42-30. (Kansas City Star)

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