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OU Football Notebook
 
By JOHN E. HOOVER World Sports Writer
Published: 3/4/2009  2:28 AM
Last Modified: 3/4/2009  4:30 AM

 Kicking off: Tress Way, a redshirt freshman from Union in 2009, has taken over punting duties for the graduated Mike Knall, coach Bob Stoops said, and may be in for more than that.

"Kickoffs and field goals," Stoops said. "We expect Jimmy (Stevens) to be better, but we also expect (kickoff specialist) Matt Moreland and Tress Way to be better. And we've got a newcomer in Bryce Easley coming in, a Norman North guy, that we're excited about as well. I think overall those positions will be a big improvement for us as well."

OU ranked last in the nation last season in both net punting average and field goals per game.

Coming on: While Stoops sounded like he had major concerns about the way his offensive line had worked as a group, his fears about a similar situation happening at wide receiver were allayed. The Sooners must replace two starters and a top backup, and so far, Dejuan Miller and Muskogee's Jameel Owens appear to be taking the right approach.

"A lot of the young receivers have made good improvement," Stoops said. "I think overall, that group being a big question mark coming into the winter was really pleasing to see how, I mean, they've really had a good winter. So that tells you their maturity or maybe their want-to in recognizing, 'Hey, we're a little inexperienced here; some hard work and we can make it up.' That was exciting."

Line item: When Sam Bradford took the field in Tuesday's practice, his offensive line was Trent Williams at left tackle, Alex Williams at left guard, Ben Habern at center, Stephen Good at right guard and Cory Brandon at right tackle. The next five, in the same order: Donald Stephenson, Stephen Good, Jason Hannan, Brian Lepak and Jarvis Jones.

Roster changes: Safety Jamell Fleming "has academic issues he's working through, with a chance to be back in the summer," Stoops said. Offensive lineman Kody Cooke is still in school at but is intending to transfer. Linebacker Lamont Robinson "wanted to graduate" and will "pursue other interests," Stoops said.

Spring injuries: Running back DeMarco Murray, linebacker Ryan Reynolds, defensive end Auston English, linebacker Austin Box and defensive tackle DeMarcus Granger won't participate in spring practice because they're recovering from injuries. Owens wore a protective boot on his right foot during Tuesday's practice.

Tight end Brody Eldridge and running back Chris Brown will be limited as a precaution. Stoops said Eldridge might return after spring break but still would be limited.

Brown isn't injured and went full-speed on Tuesday, but, Stoops said, as a senior, like tight end Jermaine Gresham, he's shown over three years what he can do and doesn't have anything to prove in the spring.

Scrimmages: Stoops said the Sooners' two major scrimmages will be closed and said the Red / White Game on April 11 will be open.

Construction projects: Because of construction in the Switzer Center, coaches offices have been moved to the east side of Memorial Stadium, players are dressing in the visitors' locker room on the west side, and practices are being held at the OU rugby fields west of Lloyd Noble Center.

Tuesday's opening practice was moved to the Everest indoor facility.

Bosworth makes Hall list: Oklahoma linebacker Brian Bosworth and Heisman Trophy winner Desmond Howard of Michigan are among 13 players eligible for induction into the College Football Hall of Fame for the first time.

The National Football Foundation announced Tuesday the 76 players and six coaches on this year's ballot, which will be mailed out this week to 12,000 NFF members and current Hall of Famers.

After votes are tabulated, they are submitted to the NFF's Honors Court, which will select the major college football Hall of Fame class.

Among the other players on the ballot are Heisman Trophy winners Tim Brown of Notre Dame and Gino Torretta of Miami. Former Southern California coach John Robinson is also on the ballot.The Associated press contributed to this story.
By JOHN E. HOOVER World Sports Writer

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2 comments have been made for this team so far. Tell us what you think below!
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Thomas Cothran, Tulsa (3/4/2009 6:08:37 AM)
We all know Chris Brown doesn't need the work, but Gresham could use just a hint of practice catching some passes. He had to drop at least 10 balls last season. I know he's the best tight end in the country, but there's nothing wrong with getting even better. BOOMER SOONER!
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my_2_cents!, Inola (3/4/2009 12:26:37 PM)
maybe Austinn Box was going pee pee outside because he couldn't make it to the bathroom in time because of his injuries!
 

 
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