Big 12: Donald Booker
Mailbag: TCU future, underrated D, OSU
October, 14, 2011
10/14/11
4:15
PM ET
By
David Ubben | ESPN.com
Thanks for all the questions. Didn't get yours answered? Try again with a better one.
Colin in Tulsa, Okla.: Is Johnny Thomas being ineligible a blessing in disguise like Orie Lemon getting hurt? OSU had a serviceable backup (Donald Booker) and would've been left to have Caleb Lavey be the day 1 starter last year. So, this year Dawtawion Lowe comes in and plays well enough next to Markelle and Johnny Thomas can come back next year? That way OSU isn't left to start some random safety next to Daytawion next year.
David Ubben: That's maybe a little harsh and perhaps insensitive, but I must say: I think I agree. It's an interesting point. There's no doubt that Oklahoma State's defense in 2010 benefited from having Lemon out there, and Booker was outstanding in 2009.
This year, we've seen a guy in Lowe that had huge potential really step into that role and not see much fall off. You never like to see guys deal with academic issues or have serious injuries like Lemon had, but Oklahoma State has been fortunate to have players behind defensive leaders step up and do well. Credit Mike Gundy and his staff for recruiting well and having a much deeper team than when he arrived. The difference is unbelievable.
Next year, when Thomas joins Lowe, you'll see another good group of safeties at OSU.
Ryan in Arlington, Texas, asked: Sean Porter for Texas A&M has 6.5 sacks this year (3rd in the nation), while the entire Longhorn defense has 7.0 (91st in the nation). Does this stat say more about Sean Porter, the effectiveness of Manny Diaz's or Tim DeRuyter's blitzes (who are both very aggressive), or the Longhorn defensive personnel?
DU: I'll say Porter. He's been outstanding, and has done an outstanding job of being everywhere. The combination of a) big leads early in games and b) defenses seeing they can beat A&M through the air has resulted in the Aggies defending 244 passes this year, which is 47 more than Texas and twice as many as Texas Tech, which has faced the fewest in the Big 12, with 122. Only Louisiana Tech has faced more pass attempts this season. So, take your pick, there. Texas A&M is racking up sacks but giving up yards by the bunches.
Neither DeRuyter nor Diaz has been outstanding so far this year. Diaz's defense got worked by the first real offense -- albeit one of the nation's best -- in its first real test. DeRuyter's defense has taken a huge step back.
Meanwhile, Porter has undoubtedly taken a big step forward. Kudos to him.
John in Oklahoma City asked: Everyone is down on OSU's defense still this year. About half of our games so far our 2nd or 3rd stringers were playing in the 4th. The Cowboys are only allowing 14.6 ppg through 3 quarters. Plus we are 6th in the nation in creating turnovers. We are much more improved defensively with a better offense to go with it. Big (X)II title here we come!!!!!
DU: Your persuasiveness is surpassed only by your unbridled enthusiasm, John.
That said, you're right, and its a point that's perhaps been overlooked in the defensive statistics for Oklahoma State. Its backups have given up gobs of points this year, but the first team defense has done really well. For those unaware, allow me to point it out:
OSU led its opener 44-13 before giving up a pick six and two garbage-time touchdowns in a 61-34 win.
OSU led Arizona 34-7 before giving up a 54-yard touchdown pass to Texas transfer Dan Buckner.
In a game that kicked off after midnight, OSU led Tulsa 45-6 midway through the third quarter before giving up two quick scores and winning, 59-33.
Finally, last week, OSU led 70-14 with 12:45 left before Kansas' first-teamers scored on a 68-yard touchdown pass and a 31-yard run to make it a 70-28 final.
So, there you go. Take from that what you will. Is OSU's defense great? No. But it's a lot better than the numbers suggest.
Chris J. in Houston asked: You have to give me props next week for this, I'm calling it: Texas beats Oklahoma State this week in a big way.
DU: K. What do I get if you're wrong?
Scott in Oklahoma asked: David, with tcu coming into the fold next year, is the big 12 just going to give them the a&m schedule or will they redo them all together and give osu another catered home game vs. Ou as they have the these last two years? Or will it be another team? Also, will they change next years ou tcu game to a conference game or will it stay as a non conference game ala the colorado cal game this year?
DU: All valid administrative questions that haven't been addressed in this space. Let's change that.
For now, when the Big 12 moves on as a ten-team league in 2012, the schedule is being reworked. TCU won't just slide into Texas A&M's spot. That means they likely won't be the Longhorns' Thanksgiving opponent, a tradition Texas would like to continue. UT president Bill Powers says "a lot of teams are in the mix" for a new opponent. There's lots of talk about Texas Tech filling that role, but it's very much in the air for now. The Big 12 isn't worried about that currently. You've got to know your configuration next year and beyond before you get too concerned about scheduling. That issue will be pushed to the forefront more during the offseason.
As of now, TCU-OU is up in the air, too. It might be kept as an early season game, but like I mentioned earlier, that's up in the air. TCU doesn't have anything to worry about. With a 10-team league and nine-game schedule, they just slide OU in as a conference game and keep their nonconference games with Grambling State, Virginia and SMU. That's a decent set of games. TCU-OU won't be an awkward conference nonconference game like Colorado-Cal this year.
For Oklahoma? Things are a little more complicated. TCU is a good secondary game, but the Sooners already have a home-and-home with Notre Dame (!) on the schedule for 2012 and 2013, but Oklahoma is reportedly looking at replacing the TCU game with Arkansas. That's one heck of a nonconference schedule for the Sooners if it happens. That's nothing new. Oklahoma is the most ambitious scheduling program in the Big 12, and that's a stated goal of the school: to put a compelling product on the field for its fans and schedule to get an edge in the BCS rankings.
Jordan Marshall in Hutchinson, Kan., asked: What do you think is going to happen to the BCS this year when there are going to be 4 undefeated teams at the end of the year (LSU/Alabama, OU/OSU, Wisconsin, and Boise State)? Clemson has a long shot of staying undefeated but that is just another team that could throw the whole system out of whack. Do you think that the BCS will just see this year as a fluke year or do you think that they will finally open their eyes to a playoff system?
DU: It could happen, but if it does, I don't think there's any question that the SEC and Big 12 champ would play each other. I could envision a scenario in which Wisconsin gets in over Oklahoma State, but hopping over Oklahoma or one of the SEC teams sounds impossible.
Jumping Oklahoma State is highly unlikely. We can talk conference strength, but simpler than that, just look at their past and future schedules.
OSU has a road win against a top 10 team, and four more top 25 teams on its schedule, closing with the crescendo of hosting Oklahoma.
The Big Ten is clearly down this season. Nebraska and Ohio State aren't great teams and will lose again. Michigan looks a bit overrated at No. 11. Wisconsin is a legitimate title contender, but even if Bucky runs the table, its weak nonconference schedule and the Big 12's depth and strength across the conference will push an undefeated Oklahoma or Oklahoma State team into the title game to face off with the SEC once again.
Colin in Tulsa, Okla.: Is Johnny Thomas being ineligible a blessing in disguise like Orie Lemon getting hurt? OSU had a serviceable backup (Donald Booker) and would've been left to have Caleb Lavey be the day 1 starter last year. So, this year Dawtawion Lowe comes in and plays well enough next to Markelle and Johnny Thomas can come back next year? That way OSU isn't left to start some random safety next to Daytawion next year.
David Ubben: That's maybe a little harsh and perhaps insensitive, but I must say: I think I agree. It's an interesting point. There's no doubt that Oklahoma State's defense in 2010 benefited from having Lemon out there, and Booker was outstanding in 2009.
This year, we've seen a guy in Lowe that had huge potential really step into that role and not see much fall off. You never like to see guys deal with academic issues or have serious injuries like Lemon had, but Oklahoma State has been fortunate to have players behind defensive leaders step up and do well. Credit Mike Gundy and his staff for recruiting well and having a much deeper team than when he arrived. The difference is unbelievable.
Next year, when Thomas joins Lowe, you'll see another good group of safeties at OSU.
Ryan in Arlington, Texas, asked: Sean Porter for Texas A&M has 6.5 sacks this year (3rd in the nation), while the entire Longhorn defense has 7.0 (91st in the nation). Does this stat say more about Sean Porter, the effectiveness of Manny Diaz's or Tim DeRuyter's blitzes (who are both very aggressive), or the Longhorn defensive personnel?
DU: I'll say Porter. He's been outstanding, and has done an outstanding job of being everywhere. The combination of a) big leads early in games and b) defenses seeing they can beat A&M through the air has resulted in the Aggies defending 244 passes this year, which is 47 more than Texas and twice as many as Texas Tech, which has faced the fewest in the Big 12, with 122. Only Louisiana Tech has faced more pass attempts this season. So, take your pick, there. Texas A&M is racking up sacks but giving up yards by the bunches.
Neither DeRuyter nor Diaz has been outstanding so far this year. Diaz's defense got worked by the first real offense -- albeit one of the nation's best -- in its first real test. DeRuyter's defense has taken a huge step back.
Meanwhile, Porter has undoubtedly taken a big step forward. Kudos to him.
John in Oklahoma City asked: Everyone is down on OSU's defense still this year. About half of our games so far our 2nd or 3rd stringers were playing in the 4th. The Cowboys are only allowing 14.6 ppg through 3 quarters. Plus we are 6th in the nation in creating turnovers. We are much more improved defensively with a better offense to go with it. Big (X)II title here we come!!!!!
DU: Your persuasiveness is surpassed only by your unbridled enthusiasm, John.
That said, you're right, and its a point that's perhaps been overlooked in the defensive statistics for Oklahoma State. Its backups have given up gobs of points this year, but the first team defense has done really well. For those unaware, allow me to point it out:
OSU led its opener 44-13 before giving up a pick six and two garbage-time touchdowns in a 61-34 win.
OSU led Arizona 34-7 before giving up a 54-yard touchdown pass to Texas transfer Dan Buckner.
In a game that kicked off after midnight, OSU led Tulsa 45-6 midway through the third quarter before giving up two quick scores and winning, 59-33.
Finally, last week, OSU led 70-14 with 12:45 left before Kansas' first-teamers scored on a 68-yard touchdown pass and a 31-yard run to make it a 70-28 final.
So, there you go. Take from that what you will. Is OSU's defense great? No. But it's a lot better than the numbers suggest.
Chris J. in Houston asked: You have to give me props next week for this, I'm calling it: Texas beats Oklahoma State this week in a big way.
DU: K. What do I get if you're wrong?
Scott in Oklahoma asked: David, with tcu coming into the fold next year, is the big 12 just going to give them the a&m schedule or will they redo them all together and give osu another catered home game vs. Ou as they have the these last two years? Or will it be another team? Also, will they change next years ou tcu game to a conference game or will it stay as a non conference game ala the colorado cal game this year?
DU: All valid administrative questions that haven't been addressed in this space. Let's change that.
For now, when the Big 12 moves on as a ten-team league in 2012, the schedule is being reworked. TCU won't just slide into Texas A&M's spot. That means they likely won't be the Longhorns' Thanksgiving opponent, a tradition Texas would like to continue. UT president Bill Powers says "a lot of teams are in the mix" for a new opponent. There's lots of talk about Texas Tech filling that role, but it's very much in the air for now. The Big 12 isn't worried about that currently. You've got to know your configuration next year and beyond before you get too concerned about scheduling. That issue will be pushed to the forefront more during the offseason.
As of now, TCU-OU is up in the air, too. It might be kept as an early season game, but like I mentioned earlier, that's up in the air. TCU doesn't have anything to worry about. With a 10-team league and nine-game schedule, they just slide OU in as a conference game and keep their nonconference games with Grambling State, Virginia and SMU. That's a decent set of games. TCU-OU won't be an awkward conference nonconference game like Colorado-Cal this year.
For Oklahoma? Things are a little more complicated. TCU is a good secondary game, but the Sooners already have a home-and-home with Notre Dame (!) on the schedule for 2012 and 2013, but Oklahoma is reportedly looking at replacing the TCU game with Arkansas. That's one heck of a nonconference schedule for the Sooners if it happens. That's nothing new. Oklahoma is the most ambitious scheduling program in the Big 12, and that's a stated goal of the school: to put a compelling product on the field for its fans and schedule to get an edge in the BCS rankings.
Jordan Marshall in Hutchinson, Kan., asked: What do you think is going to happen to the BCS this year when there are going to be 4 undefeated teams at the end of the year (LSU/Alabama, OU/OSU, Wisconsin, and Boise State)? Clemson has a long shot of staying undefeated but that is just another team that could throw the whole system out of whack. Do you think that the BCS will just see this year as a fluke year or do you think that they will finally open their eyes to a playoff system?
DU: It could happen, but if it does, I don't think there's any question that the SEC and Big 12 champ would play each other. I could envision a scenario in which Wisconsin gets in over Oklahoma State, but hopping over Oklahoma or one of the SEC teams sounds impossible.
Jumping Oklahoma State is highly unlikely. We can talk conference strength, but simpler than that, just look at their past and future schedules.
OSU has a road win against a top 10 team, and four more top 25 teams on its schedule, closing with the crescendo of hosting Oklahoma.
The Big Ten is clearly down this season. Nebraska and Ohio State aren't great teams and will lose again. Michigan looks a bit overrated at No. 11. Wisconsin is a legitimate title contender, but even if Bucky runs the table, its weak nonconference schedule and the Big 12's depth and strength across the conference will push an undefeated Oklahoma or Oklahoma State team into the title game to face off with the SEC once again.
2009 overall record: 9-4
2009 conference record: 6-2
Returning starters: Offense (4), Defense(4) P/K (2)
Top returners: DE Ugo Chinasa, RB Kendall Hunter, WR Hubert Anyiam, S Markelle Martin, K Dan Bailey, P Quinn Sharp
Key losses: QB Zac Robinson, OL Russell Okung, RB Keith Toston, WR Dez Bryant, LB Donald Booker, CB Perrish Cox, LB Andre Sexton, LB Patrick Lavine, S Lucien Antoine
2009 statistical leaders (*returners)
Rushing: Keith Toston (1,218 yards)
Passing: Zac Robinson (2,084 yards)
Receiving: Hubert Anyiam (515 yards)
Tackles: Donald Booker (99)
Sacks: Ugo Chinasa* (6.5)
Interceptions: Patrick Lavine (5)
Three spring answers
1. Learning the offense: Oklahoma State looks on schedule in learning new offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen’s spread attack, one he used to coordinate the best offense in college football at Houston last season. Brandon Weeden is the unquestioned starter after the spring, including a nice finish in the spring game when the junior threw four touchdown passes.
2. Kendall Hunter: New ends, different means. Coach Mike Gundy estimates Hunter will touch the ball around 250 times next season, but he won’t be doing it on the ground. Instead, he’ll be catching the ball in space, using his shiftiness to make defenders miss and pile up yards for the Cowboys. Holgorsen says Hunter is even better than he thought, and they’ll both want to prove it in the fall after Hunter’s disappointing 2009 season.
3. He’s no Lemon. Defensive coordinator Bill Young believes linebacker Orie Lemon is the best middle linebacker in the country, and Lemon had one of the best springs of any player on the Cowboy defense. He missed the entire 2009 season after tearing his ACL in fall camp, and will be ready to get back on the field this fall.
Three fall questions
1. Will Weeden be the next Keenum? At Houston under Holgorsen, Case Keenum threw for almost 1,500 more yards than the second-best in football in 2009. No one’s expecting Weeden to throw for 5,600 yards in 2010 (or throw it almost 700 times), but if he can elevate his status to one of the conference’s best quarterbacks, Holgorsen will have another impressive bullet on his resume and the Cowboys will have a few more wins.
2. Can the O-line assert itself? Will it have to? The offensive line is replacing the NFL Draft’s No. 6 pick and four-year starter Russell Okung, along with three other starters. Will they be good enough to get Holgorsen’s offense humming? With the system’s quick-release passing, it might not have to hold for long.
3. Can the Cowboys exceed expectations in a rebuilding year? After falling short of the South title in 2009 with Zac Robinson, Dez Bryant (at least part of the time) and Okung, expectations are measured in what’s somewhat of a rebuilding year for the Cowboys. They have a great chance to parlay a 4-0 non-conference record into a bowl game, but how many more wins will the Cowboys have in conference? Only the fall knows.
2009 conference record: 6-2
Returning starters: Offense (4), Defense(4) P/K (2)
Top returners: DE Ugo Chinasa, RB Kendall Hunter, WR Hubert Anyiam, S Markelle Martin, K Dan Bailey, P Quinn Sharp
Key losses: QB Zac Robinson, OL Russell Okung, RB Keith Toston, WR Dez Bryant, LB Donald Booker, CB Perrish Cox, LB Andre Sexton, LB Patrick Lavine, S Lucien Antoine
2009 statistical leaders (*returners)
Rushing: Keith Toston (1,218 yards)
Passing: Zac Robinson (2,084 yards)
Receiving: Hubert Anyiam (515 yards)
Tackles: Donald Booker (99)
Sacks: Ugo Chinasa* (6.5)
Interceptions: Patrick Lavine (5)
Three spring answers
1. Learning the offense: Oklahoma State looks on schedule in learning new offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen’s spread attack, one he used to coordinate the best offense in college football at Houston last season. Brandon Weeden is the unquestioned starter after the spring, including a nice finish in the spring game when the junior threw four touchdown passes.
2. Kendall Hunter: New ends, different means. Coach Mike Gundy estimates Hunter will touch the ball around 250 times next season, but he won’t be doing it on the ground. Instead, he’ll be catching the ball in space, using his shiftiness to make defenders miss and pile up yards for the Cowboys. Holgorsen says Hunter is even better than he thought, and they’ll both want to prove it in the fall after Hunter’s disappointing 2009 season.
3. He’s no Lemon. Defensive coordinator Bill Young believes linebacker Orie Lemon is the best middle linebacker in the country, and Lemon had one of the best springs of any player on the Cowboy defense. He missed the entire 2009 season after tearing his ACL in fall camp, and will be ready to get back on the field this fall.
Three fall questions
1. Will Weeden be the next Keenum? At Houston under Holgorsen, Case Keenum threw for almost 1,500 more yards than the second-best in football in 2009. No one’s expecting Weeden to throw for 5,600 yards in 2010 (or throw it almost 700 times), but if he can elevate his status to one of the conference’s best quarterbacks, Holgorsen will have another impressive bullet on his resume and the Cowboys will have a few more wins.
2. Can the O-line assert itself? Will it have to? The offensive line is replacing the NFL Draft’s No. 6 pick and four-year starter Russell Okung, along with three other starters. Will they be good enough to get Holgorsen’s offense humming? With the system’s quick-release passing, it might not have to hold for long.
3. Can the Cowboys exceed expectations in a rebuilding year? After falling short of the South title in 2009 with Zac Robinson, Dez Bryant (at least part of the time) and Okung, expectations are measured in what’s somewhat of a rebuilding year for the Cowboys. They have a great chance to parlay a 4-0 non-conference record into a bowl game, but how many more wins will the Cowboys have in conference? Only the fall knows.
Here, we’ll take a look at one area where each team in the Big 12 can expect to succeed, and another that needs improvement.
Weak: Offensive line
Oklahoma State must replace four starters on the offensive line, including likely top 10 pick LT Russell Okung and SI cover boy C Andrew Lewis. (Yes, that counts.) Left guard Noah Franklin and right tackle Brady Bond also don't return.
For Oklahoma State to be successful, they'll need the new line to gel with a first-year starter at quarterback. Kendall Hunter returns with hopes of a big year, but if the line plays poorly, he'll have to do it with plenty of shovel passes.
Juniors Nick Martinez, Levy Adcock and Jonathan Rush join senior Anthony Morgan as new starters this spring, and last year's lone returning starter, Lane Taylor, moves over to center to begin spring practice. Taylor began 2009 near the bottom of the depth chart, but took over at right guard during his freshman season.
Runner-up: Linebacker, where Oklahoma State loses quality linebackers in Andre Sexton, Donald Booker and Patrick Lavine.
Strong: Kicking game
Punter Quinn Sharp and kicker Dan Bailey could both be in for big years. Sharp was named All-Big 12 honorable mention as a freshman, when he averaged 45.1 yards on 67 punts, the second-best average ever for an Oklahoma State punter and fifth in the nation. He also had 35 touchbacks as a kickoff specialist.
Bailey will be a four-year starter at kicker and has not missed any of his 131 extra-point attempts in over almost three seasons since becoming starter as a freshman. Perhaps most importantly, he's 24-of-26 on kicks inside 40 yards. He also has a career-long of 51 yards.
More Weak & Strong:
Weak: Offensive line
Oklahoma State must replace four starters on the offensive line, including likely top 10 pick LT Russell Okung and SI cover boy C Andrew Lewis. (Yes, that counts.) Left guard Noah Franklin and right tackle Brady Bond also don't return.
For Oklahoma State to be successful, they'll need the new line to gel with a first-year starter at quarterback. Kendall Hunter returns with hopes of a big year, but if the line plays poorly, he'll have to do it with plenty of shovel passes.
Juniors Nick Martinez, Levy Adcock and Jonathan Rush join senior Anthony Morgan as new starters this spring, and last year's lone returning starter, Lane Taylor, moves over to center to begin spring practice. Taylor began 2009 near the bottom of the depth chart, but took over at right guard during his freshman season.
Runner-up: Linebacker, where Oklahoma State loses quality linebackers in Andre Sexton, Donald Booker and Patrick Lavine.
Strong: Kicking game
Punter Quinn Sharp and kicker Dan Bailey could both be in for big years. Sharp was named All-Big 12 honorable mention as a freshman, when he averaged 45.1 yards on 67 punts, the second-best average ever for an Oklahoma State punter and fifth in the nation. He also had 35 touchbacks as a kickoff specialist.
Bailey will be a four-year starter at kicker and has not missed any of his 131 extra-point attempts in over almost three seasons since becoming starter as a freshman. Perhaps most importantly, he's 24-of-26 on kicks inside 40 yards. He also has a career-long of 51 yards.
More Weak & Strong:
With spring practice set to begin soon -- Texas opens its camp on March 2 -- here’s a quick look at how I have the teams ranked heading into spring practice. In formulating my rankings, I took into account returning players, transfers, arriving freshmen and a teams’ schedules.
1. Texas (14 starters back: 6 offensive, 7 defensive, 1 special teams). Garrett Gilbert got a head start on replacing Colt McCoy with his considerable playing time in the national title game, an invaluable learning experience for a young player. The Longhorns return most of the defense that improved in its second season under Will Muschamp. The biggest chores will be for offensive coordinator Greg Davis, who has to boost running game production and find a replacement for record-breaking wide receiver Jordan Shipley.
2. Nebraska (18 starters back: 8 offensive, 8 defensive, 2 special teams). Bo Pelini has the Cornhuskers positioned for a potential top-10 preseason ranking. Most of the offensive weapons will be back from a unit that sputtered down the stretch before breaking out in the Holiday Bowl victory. Quarterback Zac Lee will miss some of spring practice as he recovers from postseason surgery. Cody Green and Kody Spano will get most of the work until Lee returns. Nebraska coaches think the defense can be better this season, even without the up-the-middle strength of Ndamukong Suh, Phillip Dillard, Larry Asante and Matt O’Hanlon.
3. Oklahoma (15 starters back: 9 offensive, 4 defensive, 2 special teams). The Sooners overcame a debilitating run of injuries last season to finish with a flourish, knocking Oklahoma State out of a BCS game and winning the Sun Bowl in their final two games. Landry Jones will be infinitely better in his second season as a starter and Ryan Broyles and DeMarco Murray may be the best one-two receiving/running back combination in the conference. Bob Stoops will be facing a big renovation on defense where key players like Gerald McCoy and Dominique Franks left early for the NFL draft. Look for Travis Lewis to be the key to a defense that will need to improve by the time Big 12 play begins if the Sooners are to have any hope of claiming a seventh Big 12 title this season.
4. Missouri (19 starters back: 9 offensive, 9 defensive, 1 special teams). The Tigers will miss Danario Alexander and linebacker Sean Weatherspoon, who were arguably the best players at their positions in the conference last season. But Blaine Gabbert is back for a second season as starting quarterback and some talented recruits are expected to emerge on defense. A key for the Tigers’ success will be a more productive running game and consistency from the offensive line. Improvement on both will be critical for coordinator David Yost during the spring.
5. Texas Tech (15 starters back: 7 offensive, 6 defensive, 2 special teams). New coach Tommy Tuberville immediately will have to sort through a potentially difficult decision at quarterback between Taylor Potts and fan favorite Steven Sheffield. New coordinator James Willis hopes to install a 3-4 defense that should be a haven for athletic linebackers. But the group’s success will hinge on replacing Jamar Wall at cornerback and finding some pass-rushing threats to replace Brandon Sharpe, Richard Jones and Daniel Howard along the front.
6. Texas A&M (19 starters back: 8 offensive, 9 defensive, 2 special teams). With Jerrod Johnson, Jeff Fuller, Uzoma Nwachukwu and Christine Michael back, the Aggies shouldn’t have trouble scoring points, although the line needs to do a better job of protecting Johnson. But the Aggies’ success will depend on the returning starters quickly taking to new coordinator Tim DeRuyter’s teachings. The group was blistered for at least 35 points in seven games last season and allowed at least 30 points in two other games. So needless to say that even with nine starters back, DeRuyter has his work cut out.
7. Kansas (16 starters back: 7 offensive, 7 defensive, 2 special teams). New coach Turner Gill inherits an uncertain quarterback situation, but has the framework for a strong running attack with all of his starting linemen back, along with Toben Opurum and heralded back Brandon Bourbon as running threats. The Jayhawks will need to fill in for the loss of Darrell Stuckey in the secondary, but new coordinator Carl Torbush should find the elements for a blitzing, attacking defense among the returnees. But the biggest reason the Jayhawks might be bound for a bowl game in Gill’s first season is swapping Texas, Texas Tech and Oklahoma for Texas A&M, Oklahoma State and Baylor in their cross-divisional schedule.
8. Iowa State (13 starters back: 8 offensive, 4 defensive, 1 special teams). Paul Rhoads returns most of the offensive weapons that led the Cyclones to the Insight Bowl, most notably quarterback Austen Arnaud and running back Alexander Robinson. But the team loses all of its starting linebackers; veteran coordinator Wally Burnham will be challenged to cobble together a serviceable unit. The Cyclones could actually be a better team in 2010 but post a worse record. A tougher schedule featuring nonconference games against Utah, Iowa and Northern Illinois and the addition of South Division powers Oklahoma, Texas and Texas Tech will make last season’s bowl trip much tougher to duplicate.
9. Oklahoma State (10 starters back: 4 offensive, 4 defensive, 2 special teams). The Cowboys must find replacements for key players like Zac Robinson, Keith Tosten, four offensive linemen (including Outland finalist Russell Okung) and six of their back seven on defense. New offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen finds an uncertain quarterback situation but will lean heavily on a healthy Kendall Hunter. A manageable nonconference schedule should have them in bowl contention, but this should be a step back from Mike Gundy’s last two teams.
10. Kansas State (15 starters back: 7 offensive, 6 defensive, 2 special teams). The Wildcats missed out on a bowl trip last season only because they scheduled two FCS teams, but they surprisingly challenged for the Big 12 North title up to their last game of the season. It might be tougher to do that this season, although Daniel Thomas will provide the foundation on offense. Carson Coffman has the inside track at quarterback, but keep an eye out for Oregon transfer Chris Harper at either that position or wide receiver. Players like Jeffrey Fitzgerald and John Houlik will be missed on defense, but all four starters are back in the secondary.
11. Colorado (16 starters back: 8 offensive, 7 defensive, 1 special teams). Dan Hawkins’ seat is the hottest in the Big 12 and arguably in college football after missing a bowl for a second straight season last year. Tyler Hansen returns as the starting quarterback, but the Buffaloes need to find some help in the backfield with only three scholarship backs in spring practice. The defense was young last season and should be improved, but will miss the leadership provided by Jeff Smart and Cha’pelle Brown. A bowl trip likely will be necessary to save Hawkins’ job and a tough nonconference schedule featuring games at California and against Hawaii and Georgia will prove troublesome even before Big 12 play begins.
12. Baylor (14 starters back: 6 offensive, 6 defensive, 2 special teams). The Bears’ hopes of stopping the conference’s longest bowl drought will hinge largely on the health of Robert Griffin, who is recovering from knee surgery that forced him to miss the final nine games of the 2009 season. New offensive lineman “Big” Robert Griffin will have to protect his quarterback if coach Art Briles has any hope of making a bowl trip. Jay Finley and Kendall Wright are underrated offensive threats, but the Bears will miss key defensive leaders like Joe Pawelek and Jordan Lake who were stalwarts for several years.
1. Texas (14 starters back: 6 offensive, 7 defensive, 1 special teams). Garrett Gilbert got a head start on replacing Colt McCoy with his considerable playing time in the national title game, an invaluable learning experience for a young player. The Longhorns return most of the defense that improved in its second season under Will Muschamp. The biggest chores will be for offensive coordinator Greg Davis, who has to boost running game production and find a replacement for record-breaking wide receiver Jordan Shipley.
2. Nebraska (18 starters back: 8 offensive, 8 defensive, 2 special teams). Bo Pelini has the Cornhuskers positioned for a potential top-10 preseason ranking. Most of the offensive weapons will be back from a unit that sputtered down the stretch before breaking out in the Holiday Bowl victory. Quarterback Zac Lee will miss some of spring practice as he recovers from postseason surgery. Cody Green and Kody Spano will get most of the work until Lee returns. Nebraska coaches think the defense can be better this season, even without the up-the-middle strength of Ndamukong Suh, Phillip Dillard, Larry Asante and Matt O’Hanlon.
3. Oklahoma (15 starters back: 9 offensive, 4 defensive, 2 special teams). The Sooners overcame a debilitating run of injuries last season to finish with a flourish, knocking Oklahoma State out of a BCS game and winning the Sun Bowl in their final two games. Landry Jones will be infinitely better in his second season as a starter and Ryan Broyles and DeMarco Murray may be the best one-two receiving/running back combination in the conference. Bob Stoops will be facing a big renovation on defense where key players like Gerald McCoy and Dominique Franks left early for the NFL draft. Look for Travis Lewis to be the key to a defense that will need to improve by the time Big 12 play begins if the Sooners are to have any hope of claiming a seventh Big 12 title this season.
4. Missouri (19 starters back: 9 offensive, 9 defensive, 1 special teams). The Tigers will miss Danario Alexander and linebacker Sean Weatherspoon, who were arguably the best players at their positions in the conference last season. But Blaine Gabbert is back for a second season as starting quarterback and some talented recruits are expected to emerge on defense. A key for the Tigers’ success will be a more productive running game and consistency from the offensive line. Improvement on both will be critical for coordinator David Yost during the spring.
5. Texas Tech (15 starters back: 7 offensive, 6 defensive, 2 special teams). New coach Tommy Tuberville immediately will have to sort through a potentially difficult decision at quarterback between Taylor Potts and fan favorite Steven Sheffield. New coordinator James Willis hopes to install a 3-4 defense that should be a haven for athletic linebackers. But the group’s success will hinge on replacing Jamar Wall at cornerback and finding some pass-rushing threats to replace Brandon Sharpe, Richard Jones and Daniel Howard along the front.
6. Texas A&M (19 starters back: 8 offensive, 9 defensive, 2 special teams). With Jerrod Johnson, Jeff Fuller, Uzoma Nwachukwu and Christine Michael back, the Aggies shouldn’t have trouble scoring points, although the line needs to do a better job of protecting Johnson. But the Aggies’ success will depend on the returning starters quickly taking to new coordinator Tim DeRuyter’s teachings. The group was blistered for at least 35 points in seven games last season and allowed at least 30 points in two other games. So needless to say that even with nine starters back, DeRuyter has his work cut out.
7. Kansas (16 starters back: 7 offensive, 7 defensive, 2 special teams). New coach Turner Gill inherits an uncertain quarterback situation, but has the framework for a strong running attack with all of his starting linemen back, along with Toben Opurum and heralded back Brandon Bourbon as running threats. The Jayhawks will need to fill in for the loss of Darrell Stuckey in the secondary, but new coordinator Carl Torbush should find the elements for a blitzing, attacking defense among the returnees. But the biggest reason the Jayhawks might be bound for a bowl game in Gill’s first season is swapping Texas, Texas Tech and Oklahoma for Texas A&M, Oklahoma State and Baylor in their cross-divisional schedule.
8. Iowa State (13 starters back: 8 offensive, 4 defensive, 1 special teams). Paul Rhoads returns most of the offensive weapons that led the Cyclones to the Insight Bowl, most notably quarterback Austen Arnaud and running back Alexander Robinson. But the team loses all of its starting linebackers; veteran coordinator Wally Burnham will be challenged to cobble together a serviceable unit. The Cyclones could actually be a better team in 2010 but post a worse record. A tougher schedule featuring nonconference games against Utah, Iowa and Northern Illinois and the addition of South Division powers Oklahoma, Texas and Texas Tech will make last season’s bowl trip much tougher to duplicate.
9. Oklahoma State (10 starters back: 4 offensive, 4 defensive, 2 special teams). The Cowboys must find replacements for key players like Zac Robinson, Keith Tosten, four offensive linemen (including Outland finalist Russell Okung) and six of their back seven on defense. New offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen finds an uncertain quarterback situation but will lean heavily on a healthy Kendall Hunter. A manageable nonconference schedule should have them in bowl contention, but this should be a step back from Mike Gundy’s last two teams.
10. Kansas State (15 starters back: 7 offensive, 6 defensive, 2 special teams). The Wildcats missed out on a bowl trip last season only because they scheduled two FCS teams, but they surprisingly challenged for the Big 12 North title up to their last game of the season. It might be tougher to do that this season, although Daniel Thomas will provide the foundation on offense. Carson Coffman has the inside track at quarterback, but keep an eye out for Oregon transfer Chris Harper at either that position or wide receiver. Players like Jeffrey Fitzgerald and John Houlik will be missed on defense, but all four starters are back in the secondary.
11. Colorado (16 starters back: 8 offensive, 7 defensive, 1 special teams). Dan Hawkins’ seat is the hottest in the Big 12 and arguably in college football after missing a bowl for a second straight season last year. Tyler Hansen returns as the starting quarterback, but the Buffaloes need to find some help in the backfield with only three scholarship backs in spring practice. The defense was young last season and should be improved, but will miss the leadership provided by Jeff Smart and Cha’pelle Brown. A bowl trip likely will be necessary to save Hawkins’ job and a tough nonconference schedule featuring games at California and against Hawaii and Georgia will prove troublesome even before Big 12 play begins.
12. Baylor (14 starters back: 6 offensive, 6 defensive, 2 special teams). The Bears’ hopes of stopping the conference’s longest bowl drought will hinge largely on the health of Robert Griffin, who is recovering from knee surgery that forced him to miss the final nine games of the 2009 season. New offensive lineman “Big” Robert Griffin will have to protect his quarterback if coach Art Briles has any hope of making a bowl trip. Jay Finley and Kendall Wright are underrated offensive threats, but the Bears will miss key defensive leaders like Joe Pawelek and Jordan Lake who were stalwarts for several years.
Here's a look at what each of the South Division teams need to address in terms of recruiting with signing day fast approaching.
Baylor
Defensive line: After losing starters Jason Lamb and Trey Bryant and having Phil Taylor and Earl Patin entering their senior seasons, the Bears need to add immediate depth. Xavier Ruben and Anthony Gonzales will help shore up the deficiencies and the Bears still are in the hunt for top prospects like Carlos Thompson and Byran Jones.
Secondary: Starters Jordan Lake and Jeremy Williams have graduated and four juniors in the two-deep roster will start their senior seasons. Coach Art Briles has already lured surprising strength in the defensive backfield with Ahmad Dixon, Tyler Stephenson and Prince Kent. That trio makes it one of the finest positional groupings for Baylor in recent history.
Robert Griffin’s redshirt season has lessened the immediate need at quarterback: With Griffin now having three years of eligibility remaining, recruits now see only a two-season window to play. But another Robert Griffin should help the Bears as well. Baylor coaches see the other Griffin, a junior college transfer from Coriscana Junior College, being able to contend for the starting position at right tackle from his first day in the program.
Oklahoma
Running back: With Chris Brown graduating and DeMarco Murray entering his senior season, the Sooners need some producers at the position. Bob Stoops has never hesitated to playing top freshman players in the past if they can help. Don’t be surprised if top recruits like Brennan Clay and Roy Finch get an early chance in 2010 with the Sooners.
Receiver: Ryan Broyles is entrenched in the slot, but the Sooners are looking all over for pass catchers who can challenge existing players. Recruits Kenny Stills, Joe Powell, Julian Wilson and Sheldon McClain all should challenge this summer to battle their way into the rotation.
Defensive tackle: Injuries and NFL declarations have riddled the Sooners’ depth at the postion. Gerald McCoy will leave early for the NFL draft with JaMarkus McFarland ready to take over. Adrian Taylor was set at the other position, but his nasty ankle injury sustained in the Sun Bowl has depleted the Sooners’ depth. Redshirt sophomore Casey Walker and four incoming freshmen are all that is in place as far as depth at the critical position.
Oklahoma State
Offensive line: The Cowboys lose four senior starting offensive linemen from the Cotton Bowl team, including the left side of their offensive line in tackle Russell Okung, guard Noah Franklin and center Andrew Lewis, as well as right tackle Brady Bond. Mike Gundy needs some immediate help at the position, both from existing players and incoming ones.
Defensive tackle: Starters Swanson Miller and Derek Burton both will graduate and top backups Shane Jarka and Chris Donaldson both will be senior this season. Defensive coordinator Bill Young needs to find some defensive linemen who can challenge for playing next season.
Linebackers: Young also will have to rebuild this group after the underrated group of Andre Sexton, Donald Booker and Patrick Lavine helped sparked the Cowboys’ surprising defensive growth last season. All will be gone this season, putting pressure to add some more contributors to add to the returning mix of players including James Thomas, Tolu Moala and Justin Gent.
Texas
Defensive end: With Sergio Kindle graduating and Sam Acho and Eddie Jones both entering their senior season, the Longhorns need a talent boost here. It also just happens to be the position where top target Jackson Jeffcoat would immediately fill the rather sizable hole.
The left side of the offensive line: Tackle Adam Ulatoski, guard Charlie Tanner and center Chris Hall combined for 114 starts during their careers.The Longhorns has some strong arriving talent, but they’ll still miss the leadership and savvy that this trio provided over the years.
Quarterback: Even with Garrett Gilbert seemingly entrenched as the Longhorns’ quarterback of the future, the Longhorns added depth with the commitments of Connor Wood and Colt’s little brother Case McCoy. It will make for some interesting competition this spring and fall as the rotation sorts itself out.
Texas A&M
Defensive end: The Aggies received a huge boost when Von Miller announced he would return for his senior season, but A&M needs to prepare for his departure -- particularly after losing starting defensive end Matt Moss and Miller’s backup Matt Featherston as departing seniors from 2009.
Tight end: Starter Jamie McCoy graduated and top replacements Kenny Brown and Craig Raschke both will be seniors next season. Adding at least one player would be beneficial as the Aggie coaches hope they can find a combination blocker/receiving threat at the position like McCoy was.
Offensive tackle: The Aggies lose bookend senior starters Michael Shumard and Lee Grimes. They do have Stephen Barrera and Danny Baker in the depth chart but would like more depth to help the line develop.
Texas Tech
Defensive line: The Red Raiders’ biggest need is at defensive end where all three players in the two-deep roster -- Brandon Sharpe, Ra’Jon Henley and Daniel Howard were seniors. At defensive tackle, Richard Jones departs as a senior and Colby Whitlock will be a senior next season. New coordinator James Willis needs to find some productive players in the trenches quickly.
Linebackers: Starters Bront Bird and Brian Duncan will be back as seniors next season, but Tech loses departing starter Marlon Williams on the other side. They need some depth to help build for the future at the position.
Quarterback: Taylor Potts and Steven Sheffield will wage one of the closest-watched battles for playing time in the nation during the spring and summer. But both will be seniors, meaning the Red Raiders need to prepare for their departure by grooming some young talent like Scotty Young, a recent commitment at the position.
Baylor
Defensive line: After losing starters Jason Lamb and Trey Bryant and having Phil Taylor and Earl Patin entering their senior seasons, the Bears need to add immediate depth. Xavier Ruben and Anthony Gonzales will help shore up the deficiencies and the Bears still are in the hunt for top prospects like Carlos Thompson and Byran Jones.
Secondary: Starters Jordan Lake and Jeremy Williams have graduated and four juniors in the two-deep roster will start their senior seasons. Coach Art Briles has already lured surprising strength in the defensive backfield with Ahmad Dixon, Tyler Stephenson and Prince Kent. That trio makes it one of the finest positional groupings for Baylor in recent history.
Robert Griffin’s redshirt season has lessened the immediate need at quarterback: With Griffin now having three years of eligibility remaining, recruits now see only a two-season window to play. But another Robert Griffin should help the Bears as well. Baylor coaches see the other Griffin, a junior college transfer from Coriscana Junior College, being able to contend for the starting position at right tackle from his first day in the program.
Oklahoma
Running back: With Chris Brown graduating and DeMarco Murray entering his senior season, the Sooners need some producers at the position. Bob Stoops has never hesitated to playing top freshman players in the past if they can help. Don’t be surprised if top recruits like Brennan Clay and Roy Finch get an early chance in 2010 with the Sooners.
Receiver: Ryan Broyles is entrenched in the slot, but the Sooners are looking all over for pass catchers who can challenge existing players. Recruits Kenny Stills, Joe Powell, Julian Wilson and Sheldon McClain all should challenge this summer to battle their way into the rotation.
Defensive tackle: Injuries and NFL declarations have riddled the Sooners’ depth at the postion. Gerald McCoy will leave early for the NFL draft with JaMarkus McFarland ready to take over. Adrian Taylor was set at the other position, but his nasty ankle injury sustained in the Sun Bowl has depleted the Sooners’ depth. Redshirt sophomore Casey Walker and four incoming freshmen are all that is in place as far as depth at the critical position.
Oklahoma State
Offensive line: The Cowboys lose four senior starting offensive linemen from the Cotton Bowl team, including the left side of their offensive line in tackle Russell Okung, guard Noah Franklin and center Andrew Lewis, as well as right tackle Brady Bond. Mike Gundy needs some immediate help at the position, both from existing players and incoming ones.
Defensive tackle: Starters Swanson Miller and Derek Burton both will graduate and top backups Shane Jarka and Chris Donaldson both will be senior this season. Defensive coordinator Bill Young needs to find some defensive linemen who can challenge for playing next season.
Linebackers: Young also will have to rebuild this group after the underrated group of Andre Sexton, Donald Booker and Patrick Lavine helped sparked the Cowboys’ surprising defensive growth last season. All will be gone this season, putting pressure to add some more contributors to add to the returning mix of players including James Thomas, Tolu Moala and Justin Gent.
Texas
Defensive end: With Sergio Kindle graduating and Sam Acho and Eddie Jones both entering their senior season, the Longhorns need a talent boost here. It also just happens to be the position where top target Jackson Jeffcoat would immediately fill the rather sizable hole.
The left side of the offensive line: Tackle Adam Ulatoski, guard Charlie Tanner and center Chris Hall combined for 114 starts during their careers.The Longhorns has some strong arriving talent, but they’ll still miss the leadership and savvy that this trio provided over the years.
Quarterback: Even with Garrett Gilbert seemingly entrenched as the Longhorns’ quarterback of the future, the Longhorns added depth with the commitments of Connor Wood and Colt’s little brother Case McCoy. It will make for some interesting competition this spring and fall as the rotation sorts itself out.
Texas A&M
Defensive end: The Aggies received a huge boost when Von Miller announced he would return for his senior season, but A&M needs to prepare for his departure -- particularly after losing starting defensive end Matt Moss and Miller’s backup Matt Featherston as departing seniors from 2009.
Tight end: Starter Jamie McCoy graduated and top replacements Kenny Brown and Craig Raschke both will be seniors next season. Adding at least one player would be beneficial as the Aggie coaches hope they can find a combination blocker/receiving threat at the position like McCoy was.
Offensive tackle: The Aggies lose bookend senior starters Michael Shumard and Lee Grimes. They do have Stephen Barrera and Danny Baker in the depth chart but would like more depth to help the line develop.
Texas Tech
Defensive line: The Red Raiders’ biggest need is at defensive end where all three players in the two-deep roster -- Brandon Sharpe, Ra’Jon Henley and Daniel Howard were seniors. At defensive tackle, Richard Jones departs as a senior and Colby Whitlock will be a senior next season. New coordinator James Willis needs to find some productive players in the trenches quickly.
Linebackers: Starters Bront Bird and Brian Duncan will be back as seniors next season, but Tech loses departing starter Marlon Williams on the other side. They need some depth to help build for the future at the position.
Quarterback: Taylor Potts and Steven Sheffield will wage one of the closest-watched battles for playing time in the nation during the spring and summer. But both will be seniors, meaning the Red Raiders need to prepare for their departure by grooming some young talent like Scotty Young, a recent commitment at the position.
Instant analysis: Ole Miss 21, Oklahoma State 7
January, 2, 2010
1/02/10
6:26
PM ET
By Tim Griffin | ESPN.com
Oklahoma State’s hopes of claiming its first bowl victory since 2007 were undone by an embarrassing rash of fourth-quarter mistakes in the Cowboys’ 21-7 loss to Mississippi in the AT&T Cotton Bowl. Here’s a look at what went wrong for the Cowboys and right for the Rebels.
How the game was won: Ole Miss took advantage of six Oklahoma State turnovers on consecutive fourth-quarter possessions to blow the game open. The Rebels got the ball back via interceptions by free safety Kendrick Lewis on consecutive drives, followed by back-to-back fumble recoveries and then interceptions by Patrick Trahan and Fon Ingram during a run in which the Rebels scored the game’s final 14 points.
It’s notable: Ole Miss coach Houston Nutt becomes the first coach to win back-to-back Cotton Bowls since Lou Holtz at Notre Dame in 1993 and 1994.
Turning point: With about 9 minutes remaining in a tie game, OSU had the ball on the Ole Miss 19-yard line and appeared poised to claim the lead. Ole Miss defensive tackle Jerrell Powe looked to have obviously jumped offsides on a snap as he charged past OSU center Andrew Lewis before the snap was completed. Feeling that he had a free play, Robinson threw to the end zone, where he was intercepted by Lewis in the end zone. The Cowboys unraveled from that point in the game.
Player of the game: Oklahoma State’s defense was gearing to stop Ole Miss running back Dexter McCluster. And it still didn’t matter. McCluster rushed for 185 yards on 34 carries, including touchdown runs of 86 and 2 yards to account for both of the Rebel’s offensive touchdowns. He also produced five receptions for 45 yards, becoming the first player in Southeastern Conference history to account for 1,000 rushing yards and 500 receiving yards in the same season.
Unsung hero: Patrick Trahan capped the victory with two pivotal fourth-quarter plays. He recovered a fumble by OSU wide receiver Hubert Anyiam and returned it 34 yards for a touchdown to give the Rebels a 21-7 lead. He then provided an interception on OSU’s next possession to ice the victory.
Stat of the game: The two teams combined for 12 turnovers, but it didn't top the Cotton Bowl record of 13 that was set when Alabama claimed a 29-21 victory over Texas A&M on Jan. 1, 1942.
What it means: Oklahoma State failed to tie a school record with a 10th victory. The Cowboys’ late collapse in the final two games was a disappointment, but OSU overachieved considering their injury and suspension losses over the course of the season. The Cowboys lose key players like Robinson, Russell Okung, Keith Toston, Perrish Cox and starting linebackers Andre Sexton, Donald Booker and Patrick Lavin next season. But they will try to rebuild around a retooled offense that will should be centered around running back Kendall Hunter, who looked to regain his form Saturday after struggling with injuries all season.
Ole Miss didn’t achieve its preseason goal of contending for an SEC championship, but the Rebels claimed back-to-back 10-win seasons for the first time since 1959 and 1960. And they likely will have Jevan Snead back for another season as well.
How the game was won: Ole Miss took advantage of six Oklahoma State turnovers on consecutive fourth-quarter possessions to blow the game open. The Rebels got the ball back via interceptions by free safety Kendrick Lewis on consecutive drives, followed by back-to-back fumble recoveries and then interceptions by Patrick Trahan and Fon Ingram during a run in which the Rebels scored the game’s final 14 points.
It’s notable: Ole Miss coach Houston Nutt becomes the first coach to win back-to-back Cotton Bowls since Lou Holtz at Notre Dame in 1993 and 1994.
Turning point: With about 9 minutes remaining in a tie game, OSU had the ball on the Ole Miss 19-yard line and appeared poised to claim the lead. Ole Miss defensive tackle Jerrell Powe looked to have obviously jumped offsides on a snap as he charged past OSU center Andrew Lewis before the snap was completed. Feeling that he had a free play, Robinson threw to the end zone, where he was intercepted by Lewis in the end zone. The Cowboys unraveled from that point in the game.
Player of the game: Oklahoma State’s defense was gearing to stop Ole Miss running back Dexter McCluster. And it still didn’t matter. McCluster rushed for 185 yards on 34 carries, including touchdown runs of 86 and 2 yards to account for both of the Rebel’s offensive touchdowns. He also produced five receptions for 45 yards, becoming the first player in Southeastern Conference history to account for 1,000 rushing yards and 500 receiving yards in the same season.
Unsung hero: Patrick Trahan capped the victory with two pivotal fourth-quarter plays. He recovered a fumble by OSU wide receiver Hubert Anyiam and returned it 34 yards for a touchdown to give the Rebels a 21-7 lead. He then provided an interception on OSU’s next possession to ice the victory.
Stat of the game: The two teams combined for 12 turnovers, but it didn't top the Cotton Bowl record of 13 that was set when Alabama claimed a 29-21 victory over Texas A&M on Jan. 1, 1942.
What it means: Oklahoma State failed to tie a school record with a 10th victory. The Cowboys’ late collapse in the final two games was a disappointment, but OSU overachieved considering their injury and suspension losses over the course of the season. The Cowboys lose key players like Robinson, Russell Okung, Keith Toston, Perrish Cox and starting linebackers Andre Sexton, Donald Booker and Patrick Lavin next season. But they will try to rebuild around a retooled offense that will should be centered around running back Kendall Hunter, who looked to regain his form Saturday after struggling with injuries all season.
Ole Miss didn’t achieve its preseason goal of contending for an SEC championship, but the Rebels claimed back-to-back 10-win seasons for the first time since 1959 and 1960. And they likely will have Jevan Snead back for another season as well.
Here's a look at 15 under-the-radar Big 12 players for 2009
December, 18, 2009
12/18/09
12:44
PM ET
By Tim Griffin | ESPN.com
One of the neat things about following college football each season is watching players provide unexpected contributions to their teams.
The Big 12 was full of these contributors in 2009, with some emerging to become some of the best players in the country.
Here's a look at 15 of those under-the-radar players, in no particular order, who achieved much more than their coaches ever would have expected coming into the season.
Missouri wide receiver Danario Alexander: Beset by injuries much of his career, Alexander never fulfilled much of the promise expected for him. The departure of Jeremy Maclin provided a chance for him to become Missouri’s featured receiver and Alexander took advantage. In the process, he produced conference-best totals of 107 receptions, 1,644 yards and 13 touchdowns. Alexander finished with a flourish with three 200-yard receiving games in his final four contests.
Nebraska cornerback Prince Amukamara: Amukamara was a nickel back for the Cornhuskers last season who notched 34 tackles, but only five in his final four games. From those struggles, he emerged as a prime playmaker in 2009, tying for the team lead with five interceptions and leading the Blackshirts with 11 pass deflections.
Oklahoma State linebacker Donald Booker: A season-ending knee injury sustained by Orie Lemon a week before the season started was expected to ground the Cowboys’ defense. Booker took advantage of the opportunity by leading the team with 86 tackles, eight tackles for losses and five sacks.
Nebraska defensive tackle Jared Crick: After producing only two tackles in nine games as a freshman in 2008, Crick won the starting job next to Ndamukong Suh in fall camp. Crick responded by setting the school record with five sacks and seven tackles for losses against Baylor en route to a season with 9.5 sacks, 15 tackles for loss and 70 tackles.
Nebraska linebacker Phillip Dillard: After struggling with injuries last season, Dillard was as low as No. 4 on Nebraska’s depth chart during spring practice. The senior earned a starting position early this season and nabbed 76 tackles to tie for second on the team.
Colorado tight end Riar Geer: His earlier career had been marked by injuries and legal woes. But Geer rebounded to lead all Big 12 tight ends with 37 receptions and 426 yards.
Texas A&M quarterback Jerrod Johnson: During a streaky sophomore season, Johnson struggled with his consistency in running the Aggies offense. But Johnson took advantage of the offseason, leading the conference and setting a school record with 28 touchdown passes. He also smashed school records with 3,217 passing yards, 3,672 yards of total offense and five 300-yard passing games.
Colorado wide receiver Scotty McKnight: Josh Smith’s abrupt departure this spring left the Buffaloes needing a breakaway receiver. McKnight had led the team in receiving in each of the last two seasons, but responded with a huge season of 76 receptions to tie for second-most in school history for 893 yards.
Texas A&M defensive end/linebacker Von Miller: Defensive coordinator Joe Kines knew that Miller could develop into a prime playmaker if he could find a spot for him. Kines developed the hybrid “jack” position that combined elements of linebacker and defensive end. Miller took advantage by leading the nation with 17 sacks and ranking fifth nationally with 21 tackles for losses.
Texas Tech defensive end Brandon Sharpe: The former Fresno City College player posted only four tackles last season. But he blossomed this season into the top pass-rushing threat in the league’s top sack-producing defense with 15 sacks, ranking second nationally.
Iowa State linebacker Jesse Smith: The former walk-on linebacker was a strong producer last season, but wasn’t expected to have the monster season he had in 2009. The undersized Smith had a conference-leading 128 tackles, becoming the only Big 12 player to average more than 10 tackles (10.67) this season.
Iowa State center Reggie Stephens: Even after enduring a mid-season appendectomy, Stephens emerged as the foundation of an offensive line that allowed only 14 sacks to rank tied for 21st nationally. He earned All-Big 12 honors by the Associated Press and had a string of 36 consecutive starts before he missed the Texas A&M game.
Kansas State tailback Daniel Thomas: When he was recruited from Northwest Mississippi Junior College, Thomas was expected to contend at quarterback. Instead, he developed as the Wildcats’ top offensive threat at tailback, rushing for a league-best 1,265 yards and 11 touchdowns.
Texas Tech wide receiver Alex Torres: The transfer from the Air Force Academy returned home to El Paso where he worked as a server at Red Lobster as he awaited another opportunity. Texas Tech provided it to him and he produced team-leading totals of 65 receptions and 791 yards in his first season.
Oklahoma State running back Keith Toston, Oklahoma State: His early career had been marked by struggles as he labored in the shadows of Kendall Hunter. But after the 2008 Big 12 rushing leader went down with a foot injury, Toston rushed for 1,177 yards and 11 touchdowns to serve as the Cowboys’ top offensive threat.
The Big 12 was full of these contributors in 2009, with some emerging to become some of the best players in the country.
Here's a look at 15 of those under-the-radar players, in no particular order, who achieved much more than their coaches ever would have expected coming into the season.
Missouri wide receiver Danario Alexander: Beset by injuries much of his career, Alexander never fulfilled much of the promise expected for him. The departure of Jeremy Maclin provided a chance for him to become Missouri’s featured receiver and Alexander took advantage. In the process, he produced conference-best totals of 107 receptions, 1,644 yards and 13 touchdowns. Alexander finished with a flourish with three 200-yard receiving games in his final four contests.
Nebraska cornerback Prince Amukamara: Amukamara was a nickel back for the Cornhuskers last season who notched 34 tackles, but only five in his final four games. From those struggles, he emerged as a prime playmaker in 2009, tying for the team lead with five interceptions and leading the Blackshirts with 11 pass deflections.
Oklahoma State linebacker Donald Booker: A season-ending knee injury sustained by Orie Lemon a week before the season started was expected to ground the Cowboys’ defense. Booker took advantage of the opportunity by leading the team with 86 tackles, eight tackles for losses and five sacks.
Nebraska defensive tackle Jared Crick: After producing only two tackles in nine games as a freshman in 2008, Crick won the starting job next to Ndamukong Suh in fall camp. Crick responded by setting the school record with five sacks and seven tackles for losses against Baylor en route to a season with 9.5 sacks, 15 tackles for loss and 70 tackles.
Nebraska linebacker Phillip Dillard: After struggling with injuries last season, Dillard was as low as No. 4 on Nebraska’s depth chart during spring practice. The senior earned a starting position early this season and nabbed 76 tackles to tie for second on the team.
Colorado tight end Riar Geer: His earlier career had been marked by injuries and legal woes. But Geer rebounded to lead all Big 12 tight ends with 37 receptions and 426 yards.
Texas A&M quarterback Jerrod Johnson: During a streaky sophomore season, Johnson struggled with his consistency in running the Aggies offense. But Johnson took advantage of the offseason, leading the conference and setting a school record with 28 touchdown passes. He also smashed school records with 3,217 passing yards, 3,672 yards of total offense and five 300-yard passing games.
Colorado wide receiver Scotty McKnight: Josh Smith’s abrupt departure this spring left the Buffaloes needing a breakaway receiver. McKnight had led the team in receiving in each of the last two seasons, but responded with a huge season of 76 receptions to tie for second-most in school history for 893 yards.
Texas A&M defensive end/linebacker Von Miller: Defensive coordinator Joe Kines knew that Miller could develop into a prime playmaker if he could find a spot for him. Kines developed the hybrid “jack” position that combined elements of linebacker and defensive end. Miller took advantage by leading the nation with 17 sacks and ranking fifth nationally with 21 tackles for losses.
Texas Tech defensive end Brandon Sharpe: The former Fresno City College player posted only four tackles last season. But he blossomed this season into the top pass-rushing threat in the league’s top sack-producing defense with 15 sacks, ranking second nationally.
Iowa State linebacker Jesse Smith: The former walk-on linebacker was a strong producer last season, but wasn’t expected to have the monster season he had in 2009. The undersized Smith had a conference-leading 128 tackles, becoming the only Big 12 player to average more than 10 tackles (10.67) this season.
Iowa State center Reggie Stephens: Even after enduring a mid-season appendectomy, Stephens emerged as the foundation of an offensive line that allowed only 14 sacks to rank tied for 21st nationally. He earned All-Big 12 honors by the Associated Press and had a string of 36 consecutive starts before he missed the Texas A&M game.
Kansas State tailback Daniel Thomas: When he was recruited from Northwest Mississippi Junior College, Thomas was expected to contend at quarterback. Instead, he developed as the Wildcats’ top offensive threat at tailback, rushing for a league-best 1,265 yards and 11 touchdowns.
Texas Tech wide receiver Alex Torres: The transfer from the Air Force Academy returned home to El Paso where he worked as a server at Red Lobster as he awaited another opportunity. Texas Tech provided it to him and he produced team-leading totals of 65 receptions and 791 yards in his first season.
Oklahoma State running back Keith Toston, Oklahoma State: His early career had been marked by struggles as he labored in the shadows of Kendall Hunter. But after the 2008 Big 12 rushing leader went down with a foot injury, Toston rushed for 1,177 yards and 11 touchdowns to serve as the Cowboys’ top offensive threat.
Here's how I rank them heading into the bowls.
1. Texas: The Longhorns earned their BCS championship game berth, but it wasn’t pretty. They struggled all night offensively against Nebraska and were lucky to escape Arlington with the Big 12 championship. The most immediate concern for this team will be the return of the running game and to find some kind of pass blocking after all of the struggles in the championship game. If Texas struggled against teams like Oklahoma and Nebraska, the same bodes for the game against Alabama. Colt McCoy’s Heisman hopes took a big hit. Fortunately for him, Ndamukong Suh will be wearing a coat and tie the next time he sees him rather than a football uniform.
2. Nebraska: It was amazing that the Cornhuskers were so close to the Big 12 title, considering all of their struggles on offense. But even after producing five first downs and 106 total yards against Texas, the Cornhuskers were close because of the play of their defense, particularly Suh. Some of the comments that the Pelini brothers made after the game that were reported in the Omaha World-Herald will only increase the intensity of next season’s game when Texas visits Nebraska. But after Saturday night, there’s no doubt that Bo Pelini has pushed the Cornhuskers program ahead faster than most expected. And the Holiday Bowl will be another way for the Cornhuskers to continue their growth.
3. Oklahoma State: A week after their demolition at the hands of Oklahoma, it will be interesting to see how the Cowboys respond to the start of Cotton Bowl preparations. The Cowboys will face a determined challenge in the trenches against Mississippi, which stunned Texas Tech last season. The Cowboys sure could use Donald Booker in a physical game like that -- and a healthy Zac Robinson.
4. Texas Tech: Mike Leach has never missed a bowl during his 10-year tenure with the Red Raiders. Tech is running into the bowl game in good shape with Steven Sheffield recovering from his foot injury and Taylor Potts coming off a strong finish. The Red Raiders also might end up catching a very winnable bowl game in the Alamo Bowl as they face a fractured Michigan State program that is being torn apart after a controversial series of suspensions. A win likely would enable the Red Raiders to crack the final Top 25, so a big effort is important in bowl preparations.
5. Missouri: It’s hard to believe that a team ranked this high will end up playing in the Big 12’s bowl game with the smallest payout. Actually, Gary Pinkel probably isn’t complaining too much. Navy’s one-dimensional offense shouldn’t pose that much of a problem to the Tigers. They get a shot to play in another Texas city for a bowl game -- it will be four different ones in four years in Houston -- but it will keep the Tigers as a prime topic of conversation in one of Texas’ most fertile recruiting areas. Even though the trip might not be as glamorous as a trip to Arizona, it will still be a bowl trip and a winnable one at that.
6. Oklahoma: The Sooners will be making their first visit to El Paso since 1993 with their trip to the Sun Bowl. It’s a big disappointment after all of the high expectations coming into the season. But the game against Stanford should be a challenging one. It will be a test for the Sooners to check Andrew Luck, Toby Gerhart and all of the Cardinal’s offensive weapons. But the opportunity to win after losing five of his last six bowl games should be something that will drive Bob Stoops and his team during the next several weeks.
7. Texas A&M: Expect one of the most entertaining bowl games when Texas A&M hooks up with Georgia in the Independence Bowl. With Joe Cox and Jerrod Johnson throwing passes and the relative struggles of both team’s pass defenses, the first team in the 50s might end up winning. It will be a good challenge for the Aggies -- particularly on defense -- as they try to stem a recent bowl tailspin that has seen them lose seven of their last eight bowl games since 1998.
8. Kansas State: No bowl game for the Wildcats, but Bill Snyder is hitting the junior-college recruiting trail in earnest as he tries to find playmakers who will fill in for departing seniors like Jeffrey Fitzgerald and Grant Gregory. The Wildcats came much closer to making a bowl trip this season than most expected before the season. Their inability to practice in December will be a huge impetus for Snyder to make sure he includes only one FCS team on his future schedules.
9. Iowa State: Cyclone fans have traditionally stepped up with the kind of interest that makes bowl directors take notice -- even pushing them ahead of teams like Missouri that had significantly better records and head-to-head victories over the Cyclones. Paul Rhoads won’t apologize for his trip to the Insight Bowl, or a chance at a winnable game against Minnesota. ISU will be looking to hand Minnesota its third straight Insight Bowl loss from a different Big 12 team. Considering the Gophers’ late-season offensive struggles, the Cyclones should have a good shot at their first bowl victory since 2004.
10. Kansas: After Mark Mangino’s “resignation” last week, Lew Perkins is looking for a new coach. That chore obviously overrides all other aspects of running the program. Perkins is under the gun a little bit, considering that recruiting can be started by the new coach as soon as he is hired. The coaching search at least will take some of the focus away from the seven-game losing streak that will keep the Jayhawks home for the holidays after a promising 5-0 start this season.
11. Colorado: Dan Hawkins is answering questions about his secret new e-mail address. That’s what happens when you talk about winning “10 games with no excuses” and end up not making a bowl game. But after Hawkins’ one-season reprieve, he’s probably not complaining too much.
12. Baylor: The Bears remain tied with Duke for the nation’s longest bowl drought at 15 seasons and counting. The key for Art Briles’ team to break it next season is getting Robert Griffin healthy and developing a defense that can stand up to the rigors it will face in the South Division next season.
1. Texas: The Longhorns earned their BCS championship game berth, but it wasn’t pretty. They struggled all night offensively against Nebraska and were lucky to escape Arlington with the Big 12 championship. The most immediate concern for this team will be the return of the running game and to find some kind of pass blocking after all of the struggles in the championship game. If Texas struggled against teams like Oklahoma and Nebraska, the same bodes for the game against Alabama. Colt McCoy’s Heisman hopes took a big hit. Fortunately for him, Ndamukong Suh will be wearing a coat and tie the next time he sees him rather than a football uniform.
2. Nebraska: It was amazing that the Cornhuskers were so close to the Big 12 title, considering all of their struggles on offense. But even after producing five first downs and 106 total yards against Texas, the Cornhuskers were close because of the play of their defense, particularly Suh. Some of the comments that the Pelini brothers made after the game that were reported in the Omaha World-Herald will only increase the intensity of next season’s game when Texas visits Nebraska. But after Saturday night, there’s no doubt that Bo Pelini has pushed the Cornhuskers program ahead faster than most expected. And the Holiday Bowl will be another way for the Cornhuskers to continue their growth.
3. Oklahoma State: A week after their demolition at the hands of Oklahoma, it will be interesting to see how the Cowboys respond to the start of Cotton Bowl preparations. The Cowboys will face a determined challenge in the trenches against Mississippi, which stunned Texas Tech last season. The Cowboys sure could use Donald Booker in a physical game like that -- and a healthy Zac Robinson.
4. Texas Tech: Mike Leach has never missed a bowl during his 10-year tenure with the Red Raiders. Tech is running into the bowl game in good shape with Steven Sheffield recovering from his foot injury and Taylor Potts coming off a strong finish. The Red Raiders also might end up catching a very winnable bowl game in the Alamo Bowl as they face a fractured Michigan State program that is being torn apart after a controversial series of suspensions. A win likely would enable the Red Raiders to crack the final Top 25, so a big effort is important in bowl preparations.
5. Missouri: It’s hard to believe that a team ranked this high will end up playing in the Big 12’s bowl game with the smallest payout. Actually, Gary Pinkel probably isn’t complaining too much. Navy’s one-dimensional offense shouldn’t pose that much of a problem to the Tigers. They get a shot to play in another Texas city for a bowl game -- it will be four different ones in four years in Houston -- but it will keep the Tigers as a prime topic of conversation in one of Texas’ most fertile recruiting areas. Even though the trip might not be as glamorous as a trip to Arizona, it will still be a bowl trip and a winnable one at that.
6. Oklahoma: The Sooners will be making their first visit to El Paso since 1993 with their trip to the Sun Bowl. It’s a big disappointment after all of the high expectations coming into the season. But the game against Stanford should be a challenging one. It will be a test for the Sooners to check Andrew Luck, Toby Gerhart and all of the Cardinal’s offensive weapons. But the opportunity to win after losing five of his last six bowl games should be something that will drive Bob Stoops and his team during the next several weeks.
7. Texas A&M: Expect one of the most entertaining bowl games when Texas A&M hooks up with Georgia in the Independence Bowl. With Joe Cox and Jerrod Johnson throwing passes and the relative struggles of both team’s pass defenses, the first team in the 50s might end up winning. It will be a good challenge for the Aggies -- particularly on defense -- as they try to stem a recent bowl tailspin that has seen them lose seven of their last eight bowl games since 1998.
8. Kansas State: No bowl game for the Wildcats, but Bill Snyder is hitting the junior-college recruiting trail in earnest as he tries to find playmakers who will fill in for departing seniors like Jeffrey Fitzgerald and Grant Gregory. The Wildcats came much closer to making a bowl trip this season than most expected before the season. Their inability to practice in December will be a huge impetus for Snyder to make sure he includes only one FCS team on his future schedules.
9. Iowa State: Cyclone fans have traditionally stepped up with the kind of interest that makes bowl directors take notice -- even pushing them ahead of teams like Missouri that had significantly better records and head-to-head victories over the Cyclones. Paul Rhoads won’t apologize for his trip to the Insight Bowl, or a chance at a winnable game against Minnesota. ISU will be looking to hand Minnesota its third straight Insight Bowl loss from a different Big 12 team. Considering the Gophers’ late-season offensive struggles, the Cyclones should have a good shot at their first bowl victory since 2004.
10. Kansas: After Mark Mangino’s “resignation” last week, Lew Perkins is looking for a new coach. That chore obviously overrides all other aspects of running the program. Perkins is under the gun a little bit, considering that recruiting can be started by the new coach as soon as he is hired. The coaching search at least will take some of the focus away from the seven-game losing streak that will keep the Jayhawks home for the holidays after a promising 5-0 start this season.
11. Colorado: Dan Hawkins is answering questions about his secret new e-mail address. That’s what happens when you talk about winning “10 games with no excuses” and end up not making a bowl game. But after Hawkins’ one-season reprieve, he’s probably not complaining too much.
12. Baylor: The Bears remain tied with Duke for the nation’s longest bowl drought at 15 seasons and counting. The key for Art Briles’ team to break it next season is getting Robert Griffin healthy and developing a defense that can stand up to the rigors it will face in the South Division next season.
Big 12 lunch links: How will Mangino's tenure be remembered?
November, 30, 2009
11/30/09
12:30
PM ET
By Tim Griffin | ESPN.com
It's championship week and we'll be hyping the game between old rivals Texas and Nebraska all week long.
There will be some good stories that emerge from the Big 12 championship game.
But there are some others ones from across the conference as well, although no other teams will be playing this week.
Here's a compendium from across the conference.
There will be some good stories that emerge from the Big 12 championship game.
But there are some others ones from across the conference as well, although no other teams will be playing this week.
Here's a compendium from across the conference.
- The Topeka Capital-Journal’s Tully Corcoran looks ahead to Kansas’ future -- with or without Mark Mangino. And the Lawrence Journal-World’s Eric Sorrentino wonders how Mangino’s era will be remembered.
- The Fort Worth Star-Telegram’s Jimmy Burch writes about Will Muschamp’s job this week to rebuild the psyche of Texas’ defense.
- The Austin American-Statesman’s Kirk Bohls writes about Colt McCoy’s Heisman hopes, Oklahoma State’s collapse and the strong future of Jerrod Johnson and Christine Michael in his nine things and one crazy prediction for this week.
- Missouri’s wild comeback over Kansas is dissected by the St. Louis Post-Dispatch’s Vahe Gregorian.
- The Bryan Eagle’s Robert Cessna analyzes the Texas Bowl or the Independence Bowl as a possible Texas A&M bowl destination.
- Iowa State could play two service academies this season as the Des Moines Register’s Randy Peterson writes that a date with Navy looms for the Cyclones in the Texas Bowl.
- The Oklahoman’s Jake Trotter weighs in on the Bob Stoops to Notre Dame rumors.
- College Football News.com’s Richard Cirminiello ranks Colt McCoy among those who are hot and Dan Hawkins, the Nebraska passing game and Zac Robinson among those who are not.
- Something’s got to give when Texas’ high-powered offense hooks up with Nebraska’s defense, Rich Kaipust of the Omaha World-Herald reports.
- Mike Gundy tells the Tulsa World’s Bill Haisten that starting middle linebacker Donald Booker has a “significant” knee sprain and likely won’t be able to play in the Cowboys’ bowl game.
Texas, Nebraska top Big 12 weekly rankings
November, 30, 2009
11/30/09
9:00
AM ET
By Tim Griffin | ESPN.com
Here's how I rank them heading into the Big 12's championship game week.
1. Texas: The Longhorns are cruising to the BCS title game, although they showed some unexpected defensive struggles against Texas A&M. Fortunately for them, Colt McCoy was ready with the kind of performance that subdued their old rivalry and gave him some big Heisman Trophy traction. Their challenge beating Nebraska this week will be to stay away from mistakes and play with the confidence that befits their national title contender status.
2. Nebraska: It’s no surprise the Cornhuskers are playing for the Big 12 title. But they have overcome their share of adversity as they make their first championship game appearance since 2006. Bo Pelini's team has a puncher’s chance Saturday night against Texas mainly because of a determined defensive front and a special teams unit that has dictated field position all season long. Punter/kicker Alex Henery has been among the most valuable Cornhuskers all season and will need a big game against Texas on Saturday.
3. Oklahoma State: The Cowboys ran into a buzz saw Saturday at Oklahoma as they struggled offensively throughout the game against a determined and challenged Oklahoma defensive unit that whipped them in the trenches. With their BCS at-large hopes dead, Mike Gundy's team remains the likely choice for the Cotton Bowl and the opportunity to finish with 10 victories for the first time since 1988. But it wasn't a good sign for them that Donald Booker likely will miss a bowl game and Zac Robinson was hobbling with a sprained ankle.
4. Texas Tech: The Red Raiders dodged a bullet in a struggling offensive performance against Baylor before Taylor Potts piloted them to a second-half comeback against the plucky Bears. But the biggest story in that game and all season was a strong defensive effort down the stretch. Mike Leach has Tech pointed upward through what was expected to be a rebuilding year. Considering all of the quarterback injuries, the Red Raiders have accomplished more than what was expected in an 8-4 season.
5. Missouri: Battling out of an early hole, the Tigers showed some gumption in their comeback against Kansas. Danario Alexander again showed why he deserves to be a Biletnikoff Award finalist after producing his third 200-yard effort in the past four games. In Missouri football history, there had been three previous 200-yard receiving games before Alexander. Blaine Gabbert finished strongly, avoiding an interception over his last 161 attempts of the season. The defense struggled against Kansas, but provided a key stop at the end of the game, and Carl Gettis' two fumble recoveries helped spark the comeback.
6. Oklahoma: The Sooners came up with their defensive performance of the season, limiting Oklahoma State to 109 yards and denying them from converting on all 14 third-down plays. Ryan Broyles made a huge difference in the return game and the Sooners overcame a patchwork offensive line to play consistently. Bob Stoops punctuated his most disappointing regular season with an impressive triumph. Now, he'll attack those pesky bowl-game struggles that have dogged him the past few seasons.
7. Texas A&M: Jerrod Johnson started his 2010 Heisman candidacy early with a career game against Texas as he accounted for 439 total yards and four touchdown passes. The Aggies had the offense to stick with Texas, but critical errors on defense and special teams were too great in the end to overcome. The upcoming bowl practice will be invaluable for a young team aiming to improve and become a potential surprise in the South Division next season.
8. Kansas State: No bowl game for the Wildcats, but Bill Snyder can take a lot of pride in the job that he did to take them within a game of the Big 12 championship game. Mike Gundy’s loss at Oklahoma opens up discussion for Snyder as the Big 12’s coach of the year. Considering the way Snyder built his team’s offense around quarterback Grant Gregory and running back Daniel Thomas -- both of whom arrived on campus shortly before fall practice -- provides evidence that he merits serious consideration for the honor.
9. Iowa State: Kansas’ loss assures the Cyclones a bowl berth and a chance to have some critical bowl practice for a young team that will grow immensely from the experience. Paul Rhoads will get his share of coach of the year votes for his four-game win/loss turnaround from last season. And how about a chance for the Cyclones to finish this season with bowl trip to Shreveport and a shot at Gene Chizik and Auburn? But ISU won't be picky about any bowl trip.
10. Kansas: For 57 minutes Saturday, Mark Mangino was providing a clinic on why he should return as the Jayhawks’ coach. But his clock management and play-calling decisions down the stretch left him open to huge questioning as Missouri charged back for the comeback victory. It still remains amazing that a team that started 5-0 and appeared ready to challenge for the Big 12 North title would fall apart like the Jayhawks did during a seven-game losing streak to finish the season. And their late performance Saturday against Missouri provides critics with ample ammunition why a coaching change is necessary.
11. Colorado: Dan Hawkins’ job was saved and he’ll enjoy the benefit of coaching a team that should be more experienced after this season’s struggles. This time around, don’t expect Hawkins to make any wild pronouncements or predictions for next season at the team’s season-ending banquet like last season. The Buffaloes showed hope for the future by gashing Nebraska for 403 yards -- the most allowed by the Cornhuskers this season. Hawkins' first task will be to work on the team’s fundamentals after the Buffaloes committed 107 penalties this season.
12. Baylor: Blake Szymanski’s return to the starting lineup looked like a masterstroke before Texas Tech charged back for the comeback victory. The Bears’ bowl hopes were in trouble as soon as Robert Griffin was out with a season-ending injury. But Art Briles' team still played tough and showed a lot of moxie as the season progressed without its standout quarterback. The Bears learned lessons from the struggles but will have to rebuild a defense that will be stripped of key playmakers like Jordan Lake and Joe Pawelek. Briles must find replacements if the Bears have any hopes of snapping their conference-worst bowl drought that dates to 1993.
1. Texas: The Longhorns are cruising to the BCS title game, although they showed some unexpected defensive struggles against Texas A&M. Fortunately for them, Colt McCoy was ready with the kind of performance that subdued their old rivalry and gave him some big Heisman Trophy traction. Their challenge beating Nebraska this week will be to stay away from mistakes and play with the confidence that befits their national title contender status.
2. Nebraska: It’s no surprise the Cornhuskers are playing for the Big 12 title. But they have overcome their share of adversity as they make their first championship game appearance since 2006. Bo Pelini's team has a puncher’s chance Saturday night against Texas mainly because of a determined defensive front and a special teams unit that has dictated field position all season long. Punter/kicker Alex Henery has been among the most valuable Cornhuskers all season and will need a big game against Texas on Saturday.
3. Oklahoma State: The Cowboys ran into a buzz saw Saturday at Oklahoma as they struggled offensively throughout the game against a determined and challenged Oklahoma defensive unit that whipped them in the trenches. With their BCS at-large hopes dead, Mike Gundy's team remains the likely choice for the Cotton Bowl and the opportunity to finish with 10 victories for the first time since 1988. But it wasn't a good sign for them that Donald Booker likely will miss a bowl game and Zac Robinson was hobbling with a sprained ankle.
4. Texas Tech: The Red Raiders dodged a bullet in a struggling offensive performance against Baylor before Taylor Potts piloted them to a second-half comeback against the plucky Bears. But the biggest story in that game and all season was a strong defensive effort down the stretch. Mike Leach has Tech pointed upward through what was expected to be a rebuilding year. Considering all of the quarterback injuries, the Red Raiders have accomplished more than what was expected in an 8-4 season.
5. Missouri: Battling out of an early hole, the Tigers showed some gumption in their comeback against Kansas. Danario Alexander again showed why he deserves to be a Biletnikoff Award finalist after producing his third 200-yard effort in the past four games. In Missouri football history, there had been three previous 200-yard receiving games before Alexander. Blaine Gabbert finished strongly, avoiding an interception over his last 161 attempts of the season. The defense struggled against Kansas, but provided a key stop at the end of the game, and Carl Gettis' two fumble recoveries helped spark the comeback.
6. Oklahoma: The Sooners came up with their defensive performance of the season, limiting Oklahoma State to 109 yards and denying them from converting on all 14 third-down plays. Ryan Broyles made a huge difference in the return game and the Sooners overcame a patchwork offensive line to play consistently. Bob Stoops punctuated his most disappointing regular season with an impressive triumph. Now, he'll attack those pesky bowl-game struggles that have dogged him the past few seasons.
7. Texas A&M: Jerrod Johnson started his 2010 Heisman candidacy early with a career game against Texas as he accounted for 439 total yards and four touchdown passes. The Aggies had the offense to stick with Texas, but critical errors on defense and special teams were too great in the end to overcome. The upcoming bowl practice will be invaluable for a young team aiming to improve and become a potential surprise in the South Division next season.
8. Kansas State: No bowl game for the Wildcats, but Bill Snyder can take a lot of pride in the job that he did to take them within a game of the Big 12 championship game. Mike Gundy’s loss at Oklahoma opens up discussion for Snyder as the Big 12’s coach of the year. Considering the way Snyder built his team’s offense around quarterback Grant Gregory and running back Daniel Thomas -- both of whom arrived on campus shortly before fall practice -- provides evidence that he merits serious consideration for the honor.
9. Iowa State: Kansas’ loss assures the Cyclones a bowl berth and a chance to have some critical bowl practice for a young team that will grow immensely from the experience. Paul Rhoads will get his share of coach of the year votes for his four-game win/loss turnaround from last season. And how about a chance for the Cyclones to finish this season with bowl trip to Shreveport and a shot at Gene Chizik and Auburn? But ISU won't be picky about any bowl trip.
10. Kansas: For 57 minutes Saturday, Mark Mangino was providing a clinic on why he should return as the Jayhawks’ coach. But his clock management and play-calling decisions down the stretch left him open to huge questioning as Missouri charged back for the comeback victory. It still remains amazing that a team that started 5-0 and appeared ready to challenge for the Big 12 North title would fall apart like the Jayhawks did during a seven-game losing streak to finish the season. And their late performance Saturday against Missouri provides critics with ample ammunition why a coaching change is necessary.
11. Colorado: Dan Hawkins’ job was saved and he’ll enjoy the benefit of coaching a team that should be more experienced after this season’s struggles. This time around, don’t expect Hawkins to make any wild pronouncements or predictions for next season at the team’s season-ending banquet like last season. The Buffaloes showed hope for the future by gashing Nebraska for 403 yards -- the most allowed by the Cornhuskers this season. Hawkins' first task will be to work on the team’s fundamentals after the Buffaloes committed 107 penalties this season.
12. Baylor: Blake Szymanski’s return to the starting lineup looked like a masterstroke before Texas Tech charged back for the comeback victory. The Bears’ bowl hopes were in trouble as soon as Robert Griffin was out with a season-ending injury. But Art Briles' team still played tough and showed a lot of moxie as the season progressed without its standout quarterback. The Bears learned lessons from the struggles but will have to rebuild a defense that will be stripped of key playmakers like Jordan Lake and Joe Pawelek. Briles must find replacements if the Bears have any hopes of snapping their conference-worst bowl drought that dates to 1993.
Ten good minutes with OSU LB Donald Booker
November, 13, 2009
11/13/09
9:00
AM ET
By Tim Griffin | ESPN.com
Posted by ESPN.com's Tim Griffin
Oklahoma State middle linebacker Donald Booker never thought he would be starting for the Cowboys this season.
Booker was thrust into the Cowboys’ lineup when projected starter Orie Lemon sustained a season-ending knee injury the week before the season started. The 5-foot-11, 236-pound Booker has emerged as a key defender, producing 32 tackles and starting every game for the 7-2 Cowboys.
We checked in with Booker to talk about his personal growth in Bill Young’s defense, how the Cowboys have prepared for Texas Tech’s spread offense this weekend and how his team has persevered through a troubling string of injuries in 2009.
What’s been the biggest reason why you have flourished once you took over the starting job?
Donald Booker: It’s mostly because my teammates have been helping me out. It came easy with all of the work and they all helped me progress in the defense. And that’s happened for me on and off the field.
Coming into fall practice, did you have any idea your season would turn out like it has?
DB: No, I didn’t. I expected to play a lot. It’s unfortunate that Orie went down when he did. And because of that, I had to step up and help my teammates when my chance came.
What were some of your initial thoughts when you took over the starting position?
DB: The first thing I thought about was about Orie and his career. And then, what I had to do for my team and just make plays for them when I had the opportunity. I was determined to do that when I got the opportunity.
How has your role in the defense gotten easier with more playing time?
DB: I’m a lot more comfortable. I was nervous at the beginning of the year, but playing in this defense is something that seems to be coming to me naturally.
I think about that almost every day. Last year I had some problems getting acclimated. But now it’s like second nature to me. I’m just trying not to mess up when I’m out there.
How has the arrival of your new defensive coordinator, Bill Young, helped out in your personal growth as a starter?
DB: He’s been a big help to me. When I do something wrong, he explains what is wrong in a way that I can understand it. He’s been a good coach for a long time. He helps me out so much.
What I like most about Coach Young is that he treats you like a man. He’s not a screamer but he’ll definitely get his point across. He’ll have his moments sometimes, but the way he coaches is so good. He’s helped me out on what I’ve done.
Before the season started, many observers had your defense pegged as a weakness of your team. How has your group emerged over the course of the season where now you appear to be an underrated strength?
DB: We knew this would be a good defense. Obviously, it would take a lot of hard work to get there. But it’s been rewarding for us to prove that we are a good defense and that we’ve been able to develop like we have.
What specific challenges are you expecting from Texas Tech on Saturday?
DB: It’s going to be a big challenge for us. They are a spread team and do a good job of moving the ball. It will be one of the most difficult offenses that we’ve faced all season. Obviously, we played Houston earlier in the season and they run almost the same offense. We’ve come a long way from that earlier game.
How has your defense emerged since those earlier struggles against Houston?
DB: Playing that game forced us to become a better defense. And ever since then, we’ve really stepped up as a pass defense. I’m excited about the challenge of playing Tech to see how far we’ve come.
Your team has overcome a lot this season with the loss of key players like Dez Bryant, Kendall Hunter, Orie Lemon and Jamal Mosley over the course of the season. How can you explain the perseverance that your team has shown throughout the season?
DB: It’s hard and everybody thinks a lot about those guys, but we can’t look back. The guys who are left are coming together and we’ve had others to step up and fill those spots. We can’t dwell on it because we still have a job that needs to be done.
How would you describe Coach Young’s defensive philosophy and why has your team been so successful in operating it in his first season.
DB: He has our linemen doing certain things to help create gaps. They then open things up for me to go through. His ideas have helped us a lot. It seems like the scheme is more understandable than what we did around here before.
Working with [former OSU defensive coordinator Tim Beckman] was kind of frustrating because you had to learn it first. Coach Young added some things and we’ve just put it all together. But Coach Young has made it where it’s easier for all of us to understand.
How do you think that confidence will make things different this season against Texas Tech, especially after the game they had against you in Lubbock last season?
DB: It will help us a lot. Coach Young’s defense will have us ready. We don’t have to think as much, but just react. He’ll have us in the right spots and ready to go.
Oklahoma State middle linebacker Donald Booker never thought he would be starting for the Cowboys this season.
[+] Enlarge
Manny Flores/Icon SMIDonald Booker credits new defensive coordinator Bill Young for his success this season.
Manny Flores/Icon SMIDonald Booker credits new defensive coordinator Bill Young for his success this season.We checked in with Booker to talk about his personal growth in Bill Young’s defense, how the Cowboys have prepared for Texas Tech’s spread offense this weekend and how his team has persevered through a troubling string of injuries in 2009.
What’s been the biggest reason why you have flourished once you took over the starting job?
Donald Booker: It’s mostly because my teammates have been helping me out. It came easy with all of the work and they all helped me progress in the defense. And that’s happened for me on and off the field.
Coming into fall practice, did you have any idea your season would turn out like it has?
DB: No, I didn’t. I expected to play a lot. It’s unfortunate that Orie went down when he did. And because of that, I had to step up and help my teammates when my chance came.
What were some of your initial thoughts when you took over the starting position?
DB: The first thing I thought about was about Orie and his career. And then, what I had to do for my team and just make plays for them when I had the opportunity. I was determined to do that when I got the opportunity.
How has your role in the defense gotten easier with more playing time?
DB: I’m a lot more comfortable. I was nervous at the beginning of the year, but playing in this defense is something that seems to be coming to me naturally.
I think about that almost every day. Last year I had some problems getting acclimated. But now it’s like second nature to me. I’m just trying not to mess up when I’m out there.
How has the arrival of your new defensive coordinator, Bill Young, helped out in your personal growth as a starter?
DB: He’s been a big help to me. When I do something wrong, he explains what is wrong in a way that I can understand it. He’s been a good coach for a long time. He helps me out so much.
What I like most about Coach Young is that he treats you like a man. He’s not a screamer but he’ll definitely get his point across. He’ll have his moments sometimes, but the way he coaches is so good. He’s helped me out on what I’ve done.
Before the season started, many observers had your defense pegged as a weakness of your team. How has your group emerged over the course of the season where now you appear to be an underrated strength?
DB: We knew this would be a good defense. Obviously, it would take a lot of hard work to get there. But it’s been rewarding for us to prove that we are a good defense and that we’ve been able to develop like we have.
What specific challenges are you expecting from Texas Tech on Saturday?
DB: It’s going to be a big challenge for us. They are a spread team and do a good job of moving the ball. It will be one of the most difficult offenses that we’ve faced all season. Obviously, we played Houston earlier in the season and they run almost the same offense. We’ve come a long way from that earlier game.
How has your defense emerged since those earlier struggles against Houston?
DB: Playing that game forced us to become a better defense. And ever since then, we’ve really stepped up as a pass defense. I’m excited about the challenge of playing Tech to see how far we’ve come.
Your team has overcome a lot this season with the loss of key players like Dez Bryant, Kendall Hunter, Orie Lemon and Jamal Mosley over the course of the season. How can you explain the perseverance that your team has shown throughout the season?
DB: It’s hard and everybody thinks a lot about those guys, but we can’t look back. The guys who are left are coming together and we’ve had others to step up and fill those spots. We can’t dwell on it because we still have a job that needs to be done.
How would you describe Coach Young’s defensive philosophy and why has your team been so successful in operating it in his first season.
DB: He has our linemen doing certain things to help create gaps. They then open things up for me to go through. His ideas have helped us a lot. It seems like the scheme is more understandable than what we did around here before.
Working with [former OSU defensive coordinator Tim Beckman] was kind of frustrating because you had to learn it first. Coach Young added some things and we’ve just put it all together. But Coach Young has made it where it’s easier for all of us to understand.
How do you think that confidence will make things different this season against Texas Tech, especially after the game they had against you in Lubbock last season?
DB: It will help us a lot. Coach Young’s defense will have us ready. We don’t have to think as much, but just react. He’ll have us in the right spots and ready to go.
Posted by ESPN.com's Tim Griffin
With Halloween approaching tomorrow and all those goblins bound to be out across the country tomorrow night, I came up with a list of who I consider as the 12 scariest players in the Big 12.
These are the guys it would be best to avoid if they have an issue with you.
Hopefully, I’m on the good side of all of them.
Any other deserving candidates I might have missed?
With Halloween approaching tomorrow and all those goblins bound to be out across the country tomorrow night, I came up with a list of who I consider as the 12 scariest players in the Big 12.
These are the guys it would be best to avoid if they have an issue with you.
Hopefully, I’m on the good side of all of them.
- Nebraska defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh
- Texas Tech guard Brandon Carter
- Oklahoma defensive tackle Gerald McCoy
- Baylor defensive tackle Phil Taylor
- Texas defensive tackle Lamarr Houston
- Texas defensive end/linebacker Sergio Kindle
- Oklahoma safety Quinton Carter
- Oklahoma tackle Trent Williams
- Kansas State defensive end James Fitzgerald
- Iowa State linebacker Jesse Smith
- Kansas running back Toben Opurum
- Oklahoma State linebacker Donald Booker
Any other deserving candidates I might have missed?
Big 12 internal affairs: Grayshirting paying off with Florence, Leong
October, 7, 2009
10/07/09
2:21
PM ET
By Tim Griffin | ESPN.com
Posted by ESPN.com's Tim Griffin
Here are a few under-the-radar topics that people are talking about across the Big 12.
- The early success of Baylor backup quarterback Nick Florence and Texas Tech wide receiver Lyle Leong points out the benefit of grayshirting, a practice where players report a year early before they go on scholarship. Both Florence and Leong developed before joining their teams and were better prepared to play when they got their chances. The results have immeasurably helped both teams.
- Kansas State third-string quarterback Joseph Kassanavoid is useful to the Wildcats in other ways than merely flashing dummy signals and carrying a clipboard on the sideline. The 6-foot-5, 239-pound Kassanavoid is a member of almost every special-teams unit for the Wildcats. He even got a couple of rotations at defensive end late in the Wildcats’ game against Iowa State last week, producing a key fumble early in the fourth quarter.
- The best new version of the Wildcat offense is the “Bearcat” offense employed by Art Briles at Baylor. It’s a little more unconventional than most because freshman tight end Jerod Monk got the snap. It worked to perfection for a 1-yard touchdown run against Kent State, so you can’t argue with Briles' success.
- One item I’m going to be curious to watch Thursday night will be how much Missouri coaches allow quarterback Blaine Gabbert to change plays at the line of scrimmage. Owing to his newness at the position, Gabbert hasn’t done much of that yet. It will be an acquired skill. But I’m wondering how much growth in that aspect of his game will be seen in the next several weeks.
- Perhaps the wisest move that Bo Pelini has made has been his reinsertion of senior Phillip Dillard back into the starting lineup at linebacker. Dillard’s return has helped foster a nasty disposition in the group that is best seen in Nebraska's emerging run defense. And Dillard also has helped settle down freshmen starting linebackers Sean Fisher and Will Compton, who join him in the starting lineup.
- The presumption that starting middle linebacker Orie Lemon would be a huge loss for Oklahoma State this season hasn't exactly worked out. The strong production of former junior-college player Donald Booker has boosted the Cowboys' defense. Booker has emerged as one of the conference’s most underrated linebackers, leading OSU with 26 tackles.
- The best example of Colorado’s offensive and defensive struggles can be seen in this statistic. The Buffaloes have produced two gains of 40 yards or more on offense. And they’ve allowed 11 gains of 40 yards or more on defense.
Posted by ESPN.com's Tim Griffin
STILLWATER, Okla. -- Oklahoma State had been awaiting a chance to unleash Dez Bryant and their vaunted punt return squad all through the game.
The only trouble was that Oklahoma State didn't force Houston to punt until about 8 1/2 minutes were left in the third quarter.
Bryant took advantage with a scintillating 82-yard punt return that sliced Houston's lead to 24-21 with 8:34 left in the third quarter. The big play appears to have reclaimed momentum for the No. 5 Cowboys.
Bryant took advantage of a crunching block from Donald Booker before jetting down the right sideline for the touchdown. It was the third punt return for a touchdown in Bryant's college career.
We've got a football game here, again.
STILLWATER, Okla. -- Oklahoma State had been awaiting a chance to unleash Dez Bryant and their vaunted punt return squad all through the game.
The only trouble was that Oklahoma State didn't force Houston to punt until about 8 1/2 minutes were left in the third quarter.
Bryant took advantage with a scintillating 82-yard punt return that sliced Houston's lead to 24-21 with 8:34 left in the third quarter. The big play appears to have reclaimed momentum for the No. 5 Cowboys.
Bryant took advantage of a crunching block from Donald Booker before jetting down the right sideline for the touchdown. It was the third punt return for a touchdown in Bryant's college career.
We've got a football game here, again.
Instant analysis of Houston-OSU first half
September, 12, 2009
9/12/09
5:23
PM ET
By Tim Griffin | ESPN.com
Posted by ESPN.com's Tim Griffin
STILLWATER, Okla. -- It's started raining just as the first half ends, making the mood even darker and gloomier for Oklahoma State fans who have seen the No. 5 Cowboys fall into an early 24-7 hole against Houston.
Here's a quick look at how the first half played out in a game where Houston could be ahead by a larger margin considering their two turnovers deep in Oklahoma State territory.
Turning point: David Hunter's crunching tackle forced a fumble by Oklahoma State's Kendall Hunter at the Oklahoma State 16 to conclude the Cowboys' first possession. Houston quarterback Case Keenum scored on a 16-yard keeper on the next play and the Cougars have never been behind since then.
Stat of the half: Houston has produced 322 yards on 42 plays -- an average of 7.7 yards per snap. That offensive proficiency is the main reason why the Cougars haven't been forced to punt in the first half. The only time the Cougars have been stopped came on two drives ended by turnovers.
Best player of the half: Keenum was sharp from his opening possession. He has completed 19 of 25 passes -- including 11 straight completions at one point -- for 224 yards and two touchdowns. Keenum also added a 16-yard TD run on his only carry.
Best call: Houston singed an Oklahoma State blitz when Keenum hooked up with wide receiver Tyron Carrier on a 32-yard touchdown pass with 30.3 seconds left. The big play -- Houston's largest gain of the first half -- boosted the Cougars' halftime lead to 24-7. Keenum stood up to the maximum blitz by Oklahoma State linebacker Donald Booker before hitting Carrier barely past the line of scrimmage.
What Houston needs to do: Keep doing what it has so far, especially on offense. The Cowboys haven't had an answer for Dana Holgorsen's innovative combination of passes and runs. The defense will be challenged by Oklahoma State's high-powered offense, so better pressure will be necessary. And the Cougars have done a nice job on special teams, picking up an onside kick that set up their final drive.
What Oklahoma State needs to do: The Cowboys need to flush away the memories of their first-half struggles -- and quickly. The Cowboys defense, which looked so promising last week against Georgia, needs to get more pressure on Keenum. The Houston quarterback has barely been touched in the first half. And it would behoove them to get into their offense as quickly as possible because they likely will have to win this game in a shootout if their defense continues to struggle.
STILLWATER, Okla. -- It's started raining just as the first half ends, making the mood even darker and gloomier for Oklahoma State fans who have seen the No. 5 Cowboys fall into an early 24-7 hole against Houston.
Here's a quick look at how the first half played out in a game where Houston could be ahead by a larger margin considering their two turnovers deep in Oklahoma State territory.
Turning point: David Hunter's crunching tackle forced a fumble by Oklahoma State's Kendall Hunter at the Oklahoma State 16 to conclude the Cowboys' first possession. Houston quarterback Case Keenum scored on a 16-yard keeper on the next play and the Cougars have never been behind since then.
Stat of the half: Houston has produced 322 yards on 42 plays -- an average of 7.7 yards per snap. That offensive proficiency is the main reason why the Cougars haven't been forced to punt in the first half. The only time the Cougars have been stopped came on two drives ended by turnovers.
Best player of the half: Keenum was sharp from his opening possession. He has completed 19 of 25 passes -- including 11 straight completions at one point -- for 224 yards and two touchdowns. Keenum also added a 16-yard TD run on his only carry.
Best call: Houston singed an Oklahoma State blitz when Keenum hooked up with wide receiver Tyron Carrier on a 32-yard touchdown pass with 30.3 seconds left. The big play -- Houston's largest gain of the first half -- boosted the Cougars' halftime lead to 24-7. Keenum stood up to the maximum blitz by Oklahoma State linebacker Donald Booker before hitting Carrier barely past the line of scrimmage.
What Houston needs to do: Keep doing what it has so far, especially on offense. The Cowboys haven't had an answer for Dana Holgorsen's innovative combination of passes and runs. The defense will be challenged by Oklahoma State's high-powered offense, so better pressure will be necessary. And the Cougars have done a nice job on special teams, picking up an onside kick that set up their final drive.
What Oklahoma State needs to do: The Cowboys need to flush away the memories of their first-half struggles -- and quickly. The Cowboys defense, which looked so promising last week against Georgia, needs to get more pressure on Keenum. The Houston quarterback has barely been touched in the first half. And it would behoove them to get into their offense as quickly as possible because they likely will have to win this game in a shootout if their defense continues to struggle.
ABOUT THIS BLOG
David Ubben
Ubben joined ESPN.com in March 2010 after covering Big 12 football for two seasons at the Columbia Missourian and The Oklahoman. Ubben, a native of Springdale, Ark., lives in Dallas.
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