CFI Countdown: #2 Oklahoma Sooners

2008 Record: 12-2 (Big 12: 7-1)
Bowl Game: Lost BCS Championship Game to Florida 24-12
Location: Norman, Oklahoma
Stadium: Oklahoma Memorial Stadium (82,112)
Head Coach: Bob Stoops
Overall: 109-24 (11th season)
@ Oklahoma: 109-24 (11th season)
Link to OU Football Page

Boomer Sooner overcame a loss to Texas to win their sixth Big XII title under Coach Bob Stoops (in 10 seasons), including their third straight (no other team has consecutive conference titles). Oklahoma also made their fourth BCS Championship game in the Stoops era, but fell for the third time in a row (Stoops won a title in 2000, his second season at OU). The 2008 edition—led by Heisman Trophy winner Sam Bradford—was an offensive juggernaut, but expect the 2009 version to get back to basics with the defense leading the way, just as it did at the start of the decade.

When the Sooners Have the Ball

Offensive Coordinator: Kevin Wilson (8th season)
Scheme: No Huddle Spread Offense (Multiple Sets)
Starters Returning: Five
Key Losses: WR Juaquin Iglesias, WR Manuel Johnson, OT Phil Loadholt, OG Duke Robinson, C Jon Copper, OG Brandon Walker

Bradford returns after his splendid sophomore season, giving up the chance to potentially be the number one overall pick in the 2009 NFL Draft. Bradford has exceptional touch and accuracy on his passes, and one of the quickest releases in the game. The Sooner signal caller makes great decisions and knows how lead his receivers with the ball, allowing them to make things happen after the catch. He can beat you underneath, over the top, and everywhere in between. Their top receivers from a year ago are gone, so look for sophomore Ryan Broyles to step in as the number one target. Broyles has the speed to burn teams deep, as well as take a short pass and work his magic in the open field. This is the last chance for 6’ 4” senior Adron Tennell to fulfill his potential, and he gives Bradford a big target. There will be several other talented players competing for playing time with former tailback Mossis Madu, a very intriguing backup. Of course in crunch time, don’t be surprised if Bradford looks for senior tight end Jermaine Gresham who, like his quarterback, looked away from NFL riches in order to wear the OU on the side of his helmet for one more season. Gresham moves like a wide receiver, owning impressive athleticism and good hands. The 6’ 6” playmaker also checks in at nearly 260 pounds—a small man he is not. At tailback, senior Chris Brown and junior DeMarco Murray give Oklahoma a classic one-two punch—each went over 1,000 yards last season. The shifty Brown excels between the tackles and has a nose for the end zone, while the powerful and speedy Murray is as explosive as they come. Losing four starters from the offensive line makes that unit the biggest question mark in Norman, bar none. They should be set at left tackle where potential All-American Trent Williams takes over. The ability is there, but they need to gain the continuity last year’s unit had when they were among the best in the nation.

Top Pro Prospects: 1) QB Sam Bradford (JR), 2) TE Jermaine Gresham (SR), 3) TE Trent Williams (SR)

When the Other Team Has the Ball

Defensive Coordinator: Brent Venables (11th season)
Scheme: 4-3
Starters Returning: Eight
Key Losses: S Nic Harris, S Lendy Holmes

The defense has a chance to be the best in the nation and the best in the Stoops era, which is saying something. It begins with junior tackle Gerald McCoy who at his best is simply unblockable. McCoy can hold the fort with his 6’ 4”/297-pound frame and use his quickness to be a penetrating force—in a word, he’s gifted. If senior DeMarcus Granger can ever get it together, watch out. On the outside, senior Auston English joins junior Jeremy Beal, and the Oklahoma bookends form what is arguably the top pass-rushing duo in the Big XII. Both bring length and are impressive athletes who excel at getting into the backfield. They have two of the fastest linebackers around in sophomore Travis Lewis and senior Keenan Clayton. Lewis had as much impact as any freshman defender in the nation last season—he flies all over the field and is a big time hitter, while Clayton is a former safety who still runs like a defensive back. If senior Ryan Reynolds and sophomore Austin Box recover from their injuries this is the best front seven in America. Both Dominique Franks and Brian Jackson are back after stepping into the starting cornerback roles a year ago. Franks is the better cover man with excellent speed, while Jackson brings a little more size. The only question mark they have is at safety, where they must replace both starters from 2008.

Top Pro Prospects: 1) DT Gerald McCoy (JR), LB Travis Lewis (SO), 3) CB Dominique Franks (JR)

The Schedule

Unlike their rivals from across the border, the Sooners actually play a decent non-conference schedule, even taking on a ranked foe in BYU. They open up the season this Saturday with the pass happy Houston Cougars in Dallas and make a trip to Miami beach to take on the ‘Canes in a classic 80’s matchup (Barry Switzer versus Jimmy Johnson anyone?) before they begin conference play. Like every year this decade, the Sooners’ biggest game comes when they make the annual trip to Dallas to take on the ‘Horns in the third Saturday in October. A third journey to the Lone Star state is one of three challenging Big XII road games as they visit Texas Tech. They also make road trips to the top two teams in the North, traveling to Lawrence (Kansas) and Lincoln as they renew their rivalry with Nebraska (Barry Switzer versus Tom Osborne?). They close the season with a visit from one of the most dangerous Oklahoma St. teams in years.

Pivotal Point

With a team that is stacked with NFL prospects at every position, the one unit that could derail a return trip to the BCS Championship game is the offensive line. Everyone knows what Bradford, Broyles, Brown, Murray, and Gresham can do. It will be the job of the O-Line to make sure the offense doesn’t take a step back—Bradford and his backs can’t block for themselves. Even the one “sure thing”, Williams, is entering new territory as he shifts from right tackle to protecting Bradford’s blindside. Center Brody Eldridge is a senior and junior guard Brian Simmons has experience with sophomore guard Jarvis Jones, an LSU transfer, and junior tackle Cory Brandon manning the right side of the line. They have five games to get ready for Texas.

CFI Final Analysis

“Paging Big Game Bob…paging Big Game Bob.” The offensive line is the unit with the spotlight on them, but the responsibilities of how the Sooners play in big games fall on Coach Stoops. Early in his career the Sooners knocked off top ten teams at will, owned Mack Brown and the Longhorns, and won a National Championship, earning Stoops the “Big Game Bob” moniker. While their Big XII dominance continues, Big Game Bob has been missing. Oklahoma has dropped three of four to Texas and some of their BCS performances have been downright ugly. It’s time to turn that around and 2009 could leave many saying Big Game Bob is back.

College Football Insiders Top 25 Countdown:
The Next 25 (26-50) Plus 18 Bowl Teams
#25 West Virginia Mounainteers
#24 Tennessee Volunteers
#23 Clemson Tigers
#22 Pittsburgh Panthers
#21 Michigan St. Spartans
#20 Utah Utes
#19 Oregon Ducks
#18 Florida St. Seminoles
#17 Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets
#16 Boise St. Broncos
#15 North Carolina Tar Heels
#14 Penn St. Nittany Lions
#13 Mississippi Rebels
#12 Oklahoma St. Cowboys
#11 California Golden Bears
#10 Iowa Hawkeyes
#9 Virginia Tech Hokies
#8 Georgia Bulldogs
#7 USC Trojans
#6 LSU Tigers
#5 Ohio St. Buckeyes
#4 Alabama Crimson Tide
#3 Texas Longhorns

Photos Courtesy of OU Athletics Department

Player Profile: Oklahoma OT Phil Loadholt

Pros: Loadholt is 6’8, around 335pounds—with that huge frame and overall toughness, he does not shy away from anyone and goes for the pancake every chance he gets. With his huge side kick and long arms, he does a very good job in pass protection against most of the competition he faces. The mountain of a man shows good athleticism for a man of his size. After spending two years playing JUCO, he did not struggle making the transition to the Big XII, turning in two strong years at Norman.

Cons: Loadholt is not very quick and is often beaten by speed rushers he can’t push around. He did not have a strong week at the Senior Bowl practices, as he was constantly outplayed by good defensive ends that were able to get to the edge. Despite his Second Team All-Big XII year as a left tackle, he will likely be moved to the right side on Sundays due to his inability to handle speed rushers. He also does not appear to have a high football IQ and can lose concentration, which often results in penalties. He also has some off-the-field issues, which will cause some concern for NFL teams.

Scouts Take: Loadholt has first-round size and strength but will likely fall to late in the second round, or even to day two because of his struggles against good pass rushers and his immature mindset. He has the potential to succeed as on the right side if he can learn to calm down and stick to his assignments during the game. He could really benefit from good coaching and playing with experienced linemen that can show him what it takes to play at the NFL level. His value is decreased if teams view him purely as right tackle, but he has a ton of upside and could be a second day steal.

Photo Credit: OU Athletics Department

Player Profile: Oklahoma OG Duke Robinson

Pros: Robinson dominated most of the competition he faced in his career at Oklahoma. He has good size at 6’5, 329 pounds and excels at driving his man back and finishing with a pancake. Robinson came up huge, time after time for OU in short yardage situations. He is extremely powerful at the point of attack. The former Sooner understands the game very well and knows what he needs to do for his team to pick up the first down or score from the goal line. When pass blocking, the guard shows good leverage and balance.

Cons: Robinson has the size to play tackle but he probably lacks the athleticism and quickness to make the transition. He often struggles with quick defenders and doesn’t do well in space with linebackers or defensive backs. If Robinson’s first punch doesn’t slow down the defender he is often beaten at the line of scrimmage, potentially leading to a negative play.

Scouts take: Robinson was a two time All-American at OU and he is probably the most dominating run blocker in this class. Known for his physical play and mean demeanor, Robinson shows a lot of promise at the next level. The Big XII star should be able to start immediately in the NFL, and if he works at his pass blocking and stays in shape he could be in the Pro Bowl for many years to come. Guards aren't usually taken in the first round but if a team towards the end of round one feels he would be a great fit, he could sneak in late in the round and find a home with a team that loves to pound the ball. Don’t be surprised if this Boomer Sooner is the first interior lineman off the board come the final weekend in April.

Photo Credit: OU Athletics Department

All Access Football Radio: All-Star Game Special

ALL ALL STAR GAME SPECIAL! JANUARY 28th, 2008 * 10:00-11:00 PM EST

Powered by All Access Football Radio Channel, in affiliation with Blog Talk Radio.

The One Hour show will be co-hosted by Daniel Mogollon (College Football Insiders Founder/NFL Draft Bible President) and NFL Draft Bible/CFI Senior Writer Ralph Mancini

WHAT'S ON TAP:
• Former Oklahoma Sooner NIC HARRIS who played in the last week.
• Live from the El Paso, Texas vs. The Nation participants for The Nation team QB CURTIS PAINTER from Purdue and San Jose St. CB CHRISTOPHER OWENS, who is representing Texas
• Draft Guy SIGMUND BLOOM on location from the Texas vs. The Nation game
• The Fantasy Five: Which All-Star Game Participants can help your fantasy team in 2009

*** LISTEN HERE ***

*Join our chat-room or call-in with your questions: 347.945.6275

*Missed It Live? Shows are archived 15 minutes upon conclusion of each episode here

Photo Credit: OU Athletics Department

Boomer Sooners Say Later to the NFL

Oklahoma quarterback Sam Bradford has decided he will play at least one more season in Norman. Many had Bradford slotted as a sure-fire top five pick, if not the number one overall choice. However, at the Heisman Trophy presentation Oklahoma headman Bob Stoops told the NFL Draft Bible that anyone who believes Bradford is a consensus top five pick wasn’t talking to the same NFL people he was.

"I've dreamed about playing at Oklahoma since I was little,” Bradford said earlier today at a press conference. “My three years here have been probably three of the best years of my life, and I really feel that there's no need to cut this experience short."

Bradford threw for 4,721 yards and 50 touchdown passes while completing 67.9 percent of his passes on his way to the Heisman Trophy. Bradford, 21, was a red-shirt sophomore. Perhaps making his decision to stay an easier one is the fact he will have tight end Jermaine Gresham to throw to and offensive tackle Trent Williams to block for him. Gresham and Williams were both juniors, who many believed would forgo their finals season in Norman for an NFL payday. Gresham, the 6’6/261 pound tight end caught 66 passes for 950 yards and 14 scores, while many believed the 6’5 Williams had a better season than either left tackle Phil Loadholt or left guard Duke Robinson – a pair of potential day one selections.

Photo Credit: OU Athletics Department

Big 12 Tackles Say, We'll Be Back

According to reports, a pair of Big 12 defensive tackles with first round potential have decided to return to school for the 2009 campaign. Oklahoma’s Gerald McCoy, a red-shirt sophomore, would have likely been rated as the top defensive in the 2009 Draft had he decided to forgo his final two seasons as a Sooner. McCoy, a 6’4/295 defensive demon, registered 30 tackles, including 11 tackles for a loss and 6.5 sacks, which were second on the team. McCoy recorded a sack and an interception of Tim Tebow in the BCS National Championship Game.

Also coming back to the Big 12 is Nebraska Cornhusker Ndamukong Suh. The junior led the Big 12 North school in tackles (76), tackles for a loss (19) and sacks (7.5), while picking off two passes and blocking a pair of kicks this season. Like McCoy, Suh had a brilliant bowl game (Gator Bowl win over Clemson) with a team-high eight tackles and two sacks. Suh was voted to the All-Big 12 Second Team, McCoy was a First Team selection.

Photo Credit: OU Athletics Department

All Access Staff BCS Championship Picks

FedEx BCS National Championship Game Oklahoma vs. Florida

By RALPH MANCINI

January 8, 2009 * 8:15 * FOX

Coach Bob Stoops and his Oklahoma Sooners will be marching into Miami’s Dolphin Stadium to capture the program’s eighth national championship, but to do so they must rein in a high-powered Florida squad known as the “fastest team in America.” Both offenses can light up the scoreboard in the blink of an eye. While Urban Meyer’s crew leads the Southeastern Conference in scoring (45.2 ppg) and total offense (442.4 ypg), the Sam Bradford-led Sooners are a point-a-minute machine that has produced 18 scoring drives of 60 seconds or less during the regular season and is riding a five-game streak in which their offense has scored 60 or more points.

When Boomer Sooner Has the Ball

Heisman Trophy winner Sam Bradford has the perfect blend of size, arm strength, accuracy and on-field intelligence. The 6’4” signal caller completed 68 percent of his passes in 2008 for 4,464 yards with a ridiculous 48-to-6 touchdown-to-interception ratio. But for all his throwing skills, Bradford’s ability to move in the pocket and side step pressure make him nearly impossible to contain. The 21-year-old’s job is made that much easier by his fearsome group of bodyguards led by mammoth left tackle Phil Loadholt. The 6’8”, 338-pounder regularly engulfs defenders with his long arms and powerful hands that also allow him to steamroll all those who dare cross his path. Playing alongside Loadholt is guard Duke Robinson, who at 6’5, 335 lbs. is a road grater in the running game, but is also versatile enough to move over to tackle if necessary. Robinson’s athleticism as a pull blocker and the quickness with which he fires off the line make him arguably the best player at his position. Center Jon Cooper may not be as big as his gargantuan line-mates, but the Colorado native always plays with a high motor and has tremendous foot speed, which allows him to perform as an effective drive blocker. Oklahoma’s 1,000-yard rushing duo of DeMarco Murray and Chris Brown was instrumental in supporting Bradford this season with consistent production that took some pressure off the quarterback. Brown may not be as flashy as his backfield partner, but he often uses his balance and good feet to get around tacklers and run to daylight. Despite his lack of bulk, the 190-lb. back is very reliable as a short-yardage runner. The fast and agile Murray, on the other hand, won’t be seeing any action versus Florida due to a partially ruptured hamstring that will reportedly take months to heal. All purpose back Mossis Madu will be filling in for the hobbled star. The unheralded backup showed his wares by rushing for 115 yards and three scores in the Big 12 Championship game versus Missouri. In addition to being able to make people miss, Madu is an excellent receiver that can also line up in the slot, as well as return kicks. Juaquin Iglesias, Manuel Johnson, Ryan Broyles and Quentin Chaney make up OU’s top-notch receiving corps. Iglesias, in particular, is especially quick off the line of scrimmage. The senior wide out combines his silky-smooth route running with the willingness to make catches in traffic. Defensive backs often fall prey to Iglesias’ head nods and quick double moves. Tight end Jermaine Gresham’s size, speed and penchant for hauling in spectacular catches make covering the 6’6” tight end a Herculean task.

Florida’s cohesive all-for-one and one-for-all defense uses a straight-up 4-3 scheme that primarily relies on individuals winning one-on-one match-ups up front. While there’s no one standout along the defensive line, the 6’6” Carlos Dunlap is a freakish competitor with long arms and 4.7 speed that he uses to disengage from blockers and run down plays from the backside. A bit of consistency is all that’s preventing Dunlap from being one of the elite defensive ends in college football. Playing opposite the sophomore is defensive end Jermaine Cunningham, who also gets off the line very quickly and confounds blockers by changing directions very well. Some added bulk to his 250-lb. frame should help this pass rusher overpower offensive linemen, not just outmaneuver them. Interior linemen Terron Sanders and the much-improved Lawrence Marsh have helped hold down the fort versus the run despite injury to the front four. Middle linebacker Brandon Spikes sets the tone for the Gator defense with his toughness and instincts, which often put him in the right position to disrupt the opposition. While the 6’3”, 245-lb. Spikes is a bigger linebacker that can drop back into coverage, it’s his ability to inspire his teammates and urge them to work harder that makes him a special athlete. Brandon Hicks is a hard-hitting linebacker with blazing speed. The workout warrior took over for the injured A.J. Jones in mid-November and forced South Carolina into two first-quarter interceptions during Florida’s 56-6 whitewash of Steve Spurrier’s group. Red-shirt junior Ryan Stamper is versatile enough to play all three linebacker positions and is an all-out hustler. Backup Dustin Doe keeps Stamper on his toes with his athleticism and aggressive pursuit of ball carriers. Strong safety Ahmad Black is a whiz at reading quarterbacks, as evidenced by his six interceptions. Free safety Major Wright is a heat-seeking missile, always ready to deliver the knockout blow, while over at corner, freshman Janoris Jenkins is a confident, if not cocky, impact player with superior anticipatory skills.

When the Gators Have the Ball

Florida’s athleticism at multiple positions gives them the upper hand over most defenses, and it all starts with quarterback Tim Tebow--the perfect fit for Urban Meyer’s spread-option attack. The sturdy passer is a dual threat who can pound the ball between the tackles like a fullback, or put the ball in the hands of one of his many playmakers. Jeff Demps, Chris Rainey and Percy Harvin are all blessed with mesmerizing speed and all three can catch the ball, as well as run it out of a variety of formations. Freshman running backs Demps and Rainey, in particular, have been the driving force behind Florida, averaging 263.6 rushing yards per game and 6.6 yards per carry. Harvin is technically a wide out, but he can also be seen lining up at quarterback. The 5’11” speed merchant is a dynamic weapon who specializes in making defenders miss, and is very dangerous in the red-zone. Louis Murphy is Robin to Harvin’s Batman at wide receiver with his ability to use his own speed on both downfield routes and shallow gadget plays. Complementary wide out Deonte Thompson can also flash track-star velocity when given the opportunity and his acceleration off the ball is hard to contain. One component who’s frequently overlooked is Bristol, Connecticut’s own Aaron Hernandez, who ranked third on the team in receptions with 29 this season. The solid tight end combines an aggressive demeanor with the ability to produce big yardage after the catch. The Gator offensive line features the superb run blocking of the Pouncey twins, Maurkice and Michael, at center and guard. Maurkice is a drive-blocking center who explodes out of his breaks. He usually takes his defender out of the play when he keeps a solid base and keeps his feet moving. Maurkice’s brother, Mike, also packs a punch by moving his adversaries off the ball. New Jersey native Phil Trautwein is an excellent technician at left tackle.

Oklahoma’s strategy on defense will be to create pre-snap confusion and force Tebow to throw more often than he wants to. In order to accomplish that feat, the Sooners will need to apply constant pressure with similarly-built defensive ends Frank Alexander and Jeremy Beal. Alexander has proven to be lethal at times off the edge, while the 6’3”, 253-lb. Beal is the team sack leader (8.5), who defensive coordinator Brent Venables often employs as a chess piece by lining him up in a three-point stance, as well as dropping him in underneath coverage. End Auston English should also be active in this year’s title game with numerous reports indicating that he has fully recovered from a mid-season knee injury. English is arguably OU’s fastest lineman. Defensive tackle Gerald McCoy is the glue of the unit with the way he ties up blockers and frees up teammates. The sophomore combines with nose tackle Adrian Taylor to push the pocket and disrupt offenses all game long. McCoy is always drawing comparisons to former Sooner interior lineman Tommie Harris, who was probably the best, if not quickest, OU player of all time at his position. Oklahoma’s linebackers may not be as big as they’ve been in the past, but they more then compensate for that with quickness and playmaking ability. Austin Box has done yeoman’s work in his replacement of injured middle linebacker Ryan Reynolds. The former quarterback is smart enough to read the play in front of him, and quick enough to cover plenty of ground defending the run. Box sprained his knee late in the season, but is expected to play. If he doesn’t, the hard-hitting 250-lb. Mike Balogun will take his place. Weakside linebacker Travis Lewis is the most athletic OU performer at the position. The 235-lb. former running back is extremely quick to the ball, a fundamentally sound tackler, and reliable in pass coverage. The 6’3” Nic Harris headlines the secondary due to his hitting prowess and on-field smarts which allow him to constantly be around the ball. Corner Dominique Franks joins the senior safety as being a difference-making performer. The sophomore has shutdown or contained some of the best receivers in the country this year. OU’s ability to generate pressure with its front four has also played a role in preventing the Sooner secondary from getting torched too often.

Final Analysis

In a battle of high-flying offenses, Florida’s firepower will prove to be too much for OU to keep under wraps. With a healthy Harvin in the fold, the 65th ranked Sooner defense is no match for Urban Meyer’s spread-option attack. OU has allowed 5.06 yards a play and a total of 42 touchdowns to the opposition this season and will be hard pressed to hold the Gators to under 40 points. In addition, Florida holds a sizable edge in the special teams department as top-ten team in punt returns and net punting. Combine all of that with the supernatural powers of Tebow, and the Blue and Orange will bring home their second national title in three seasons.

Prediction: Florida 48 Oklahoma 33

Photo Credit: College Press Box, OU Athletics Department, SEC Sports Media

O'Brien Quarterback Award National Championship Match-up

FORT WORTH, Texas (January 6, 2009) - The 2009 BCS National Championship game will feature a match-up between the current and previous Davey O'Brien National Quarterback Award® (The O'Brien) Winners. Sam Bradford, the 2008 O'Brien Winner, and the Oklahoma Sooners will square off against the Florida Gators led by the 2007 O'Brien Winner, Tim Tebow, Thursday night in Miami, Fla.

Oklahoma Sooners vs. Florida Gators
Thursday, Jan. 8 at 7 p.m. (CST) on FOX

Bradford was named the 2008 O'Brien Winner on The Home Depot ESPNU College Football Awards Show which aired live from Orlando, Fla. on December 11, 2008. He is only the second sophomore to win the award after Tebow won The O'Brien in 2007. The Oklahoma signal caller threw for 4,464 yards and 48 touchdowns this season and only six interceptions, leading the Sooners to a 12-1 record and Big 12 Conference Championship Title. In addition to completing more than 68 percent of his passes, Bradford led the nation in passing touchdowns (48) and quarterback rating (186.29). After only his second season as a Sooner starter, his 84 career touchdowns established a new school record, breaking the previous record held by 2003 and 2004 O'Brien Winner, Jason White.

Tebow was named The O'Brien Winner in 2007, becoming the second Florida Gator to win the award after Danny Wuerffel received back-to-back honors in 1995 and 1996. Tebow and the Gators also enter the National Championship game with a 12-1 record and SEC Championship Title. Thursday's game will not be the first National Championship experience for Tebow, as Florida won the 2006 National Championship Title during his freshman season. Tebow accounted for 3,079 yards (2,515 passing, 564 rushing) and 40 touchdowns (28 passing, 12 rushing) this season. He is the SEC's season leader in passing touchdowns (28) and quarterback rating (176.74). As a junior, his 43 career rushing touchdowns top the Florida record books.

Thursday's game will be hosted by the Orange Bowl at Dolphin Stadium in Miami, Fla. The Sooners enter the match-up with the No. 1 (BCS) ranking, while Florida holds the No. 2 position. These two O'Brien quarterbacks will battle head-to-head as their seasons culminate in the year's most-anticipated game.

About The Davey O'Brien National Quarterback Award®
The O'Brien honors the nation's best college quarterback of the year and inspires student-athletes to triumph both on and off the field. By recognizing and honoring athletes who excel in both sports and academics while exhibiting strong character and leadership, The O'Brien aims to help instill a lifelong moral fiber in each candidate. The O'Brien is overseen by the Davey O'Brien Foundation, which was founded in 1977 and is headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas. The Foundation has given away more than $750,000 in scholarships and university grants to help high school and college athletes transform leadership on the field into leadership in life. For more information, visit www.DaveyOBrien.org.

Photo Credit: College Press Box (Oklahoma), SEC Sports Media

All Access Football Radio Doubleheader Tonight!

Join us tonight for a daily double, as we breakdown the hottest topics in the world of football:

College Football Insiders Weekly: Championship Game Edition - LIVE @ 6:00 - 8:00PM EST
We dive into the BCS Championship game with special guests:
* Dari Nowkhah, ESPN
* Richard Cirminiello, NFL Network
* Dick Weiss, New York Daily News
* Doug Lesmerises, Cleveland Plain Dealer
* Stan Parrish, New Head Coach of Ball State who will make his debut in the GMAC Bowl vs. Tulsa
LISTEN LIVE

Season Premiere: Monday Night Lights - LIVE @ 9:30 - 11:00PM EST
All Access Football Radio launches a new show with NFL Draft Bible Founder Rick Serritella. Get the latest news on the chase for the Vince Lombardi Trophy, more special guests and the road to the 2009 NFL Draft as we count you down every step of the way!
LISTEN LIVE

Photo Credit: College Press Box (Ball St.)

FIVE QUARTERBACK MATCH-UPS TO WATCH

1. Sam Bradford (Oklahoma) vs. Tim Tebow (Florida): The last two Heisman winners play for the National....um BCS Championship – enough said.

2. Graham Harrell (Texas Tech) vs. Jevon Snead (Ole Miss): Graham Harrell has topped 40 touchdowns once again and needs just 253 yards in the Cotton Bowl for his second 5,000-yard season. Jevan Snead is coming home after transfering from Texas, having led his club to five straight wins to close out the season with 13 touchdowns (two interceptions) over that span.

3. Nate Davis (Ball St.) vs. David Johnson (Tulsa): If you like flamethrowers, this is the game for you. Nate Davis has always had a plus fastball and this season he has added control to his resume, while not many can throw a pass farther or prettier than David Johnson’s deep ball. The GMAC Bowl (Jan. 6) is a tasty appatizer for college football fans waiting for OU/Forida.

4. Dan LeFevour (Central Michigan) vs. Rusty Smith (FAU): Last season, Dan LeFevour accounted for over 400 yards of total offense in the Motor City Bowl versus Purdue and Rusty Smith tossed five touchdown passes on his way to a 336-yard day against Memphis in the New Orleans Bowl making the 2008 Motor City Bowl a must watch.

5. Colt McCoy (Texas) vs. Terrelle Prior (Ohio St.): While Colt McCoy has supassed many of Vince Young’s accomplishments, no one is more reminiscint of the former Longhorn than Ohio St. freshman Terrell Pryor.

Photo Credit: College Press Box, OU Athletics Department

Heisman - Barrier Shattered

While Tim Tebow did not become the second player to win a second Heisman Trophy, Sam Bradford made it back-to-back sophomores taking home the hardware. A year after Tebow broke through by becoming the first sophomore to win the illustrious trophy, “underclassmen winning” was not even a topic of discussion. Expect the trend to continue.

Players are coming in better prepared to play and contribute at a high level from day one and many of the top would-be seniors are already playing in the league where they play for pay.

Top Sophomore Candidates for 2009:

1. Terrelle Pryor, Ohio St. QB – The Buckeyes’ signal caller got his feet wet this season and the Vince Young clone appears ready to flourish next season.

2. Caleb King, Georgia, RB – Assuming Knowshon Moreno leaves early for the NFL, it will open the door for King to be the man, running behind an improved offensive line.

3. Robert Griffin, Baylor, QB – If he were at a bigger school, Griffin may be at number one. He is every bit the two-way talent that TP is.

4. Ryan Mallett, Arkansas, QB – Bobby Petrino knows how to coach up his quarterbacks, so expect the Michigan transfer to put up some big numbers next season.

5. Jacquizz Rogers, Oregon St., RB – The “Quizz Show” is already a household name among voters and will be the returning Pac-10 rushing champ.

Photo Credit: College Press Box (University of Oklahoma), SEC Sports Media

On Location: Heisman - Return Trips?

“That’s the goal for every college football player…so yeah,” Colt McCoy said of potentially making it back to New York next season. He may file paperwork with the NFL to find out his draft grade, but says he’s excited about coming back to Texas for his senior season.

Sam Bradford can declare despite being just a sophomore because he red-shirted his first season in Norman, making him three years removed from his high school graduation class and eligible for the NFL Draft. He said that he thinks he will have a chance to win his second Heisman Trophy, hinting at a return for his junior season, while Tim Tebow reminded the media he has “one more chance” to join Archie Griffin with bookend Heismans.

Of course just because they return does not ensure another ticket to the Big Apple festivities – just ask Chase Daniel. The Missouri quarterback bettered many of this numbers from his junior campaign when he finished fourth and was invited to New York, but did not even crack the top ten this season.

2007: 4,307 Yards, 68.2 Percent, 7.65 Yards Per Attempt, 33 TDs, 147.88 QB Rating
2008: 4,135 Yards, 74.0 Percent, 8.54 Yards Per Attempt, 37 TDs, 164.76 QB Rating

Maybe the fact Missouri went from being 11-2 to 9-4 had something to do with it? Bradford, Tebow and McCoy’s teams are 1-2-3 in the country and there is no guarantee their teams will be as good in 2009.

Photo Credit: College Press Box (University of Texas)

On Location: Heisman - The Hater Nation

“Either they love us or they hate us…that’s Florida.”

That was Tim Tebow’s reasoning for finishing third in the Heisman voting despite garnering the most first place votes:

Sam Bradford = 300 First Place Votes
Colt McCoy = 266 First Place Votes
Tim Tebow = 309 First Place Votes

Tebow may have a point. Many genuflect at whatever the Gators’ signal caller does, sometimes to his detriment – the excessive praise likely turns others off – and like it or not, the Heisman is at least partially a popularity contest. Tebow has learned that sometimes being the man on the pedestal generates – to use his words – more hate than love.

Tebow believes the “Hate-orade” for the Gators was amped up during the (Steve) Spurrier days, but does not blame the former ball coach for missing out on a second Heisman Trophy.

Where Sam Bradford (and Colt McCoy) surpassed Tebow was in the second place voting and the voting west of the Mississippi (see chart below):

Sam Bradford = 315 Second Place Votes
Colt McCoy = 288 Second Place Votes
Tim Tebow = 207 Second Place Votes



By the way, this was not the first time that the player with the most fist place votes finished third – ironically Oklahoma’s Tom McDonald finished third in 1956 behind Johnny Majors of Tennessee and Paul Hornung of Notre Dame, the winner. Penn St.’s Chuck Fusina finished second with the most first place votes in 1978 behind Billy Sims of Oklahoma.

Photo Credit: College Press Box (University of Florida)

It's A Quarterback's Game

By KENNY FRANEK

Everyone knows that the quarterback position is the hardest position to play in all of sports. It shows when it comes to the Heisman trophy. With Sam Bradford taking home the award on Saturday, eight of the nine Heisman Trophy winners since 2000 have been quarterbacks. This year, not only did a quarterback win it, but the top four Heisman contenders were quarterbacks; with Tim Tebow, Graham Harrell, and Colt McCoy joining Bradford. So dominant were the quarterbacks that the top three vote getters – Bradford, McCoy and Tebow – accounted for 90.4 percent of the points tabulated.

Running backs are taking a back seat in the Heisman running. The decade of the 90's saw four running backs (Rashaan Salaam, Eddie George, Ricky Williams and Ron Dayne) win the award but these days, backs don't account for enough of the offense compared to the top quarterbacks – even if your name is Adrian Peterson or Darren McFadden. A big reason why is they also don't account for the majority of victories achieved by top tier football teams. Again, that is the role of today’s quarterback. If you notice, especially this year, all top-five teams have a quarterback that can truly lead their team to victory and have offenses geared around their quarterback (the one exception may be Alabama with Glenn Coffee).

This dominance is due to the development and athleticism that seems to increase every year at the quarterback position — all of today’s signal callers seem to be living up to the hype. The college game is getting that “NFL feel” to it. It has been said that you need a quarterback to make the key plays….or you will never climb to the top of the NFL. The same can now be said of college football. No longer can teams rely on their defense or running game (like Nebraska did in the 90’s). The quarterback must be in place and have a great hold on the offense to achieve college football supremacy. As the game evolves, so does every position…but none of them are as important as the one that gets dissected and placed under the microscope more than any other – the quarterback.

Photo Credit: University of Texas Athletics

BCS = Best Match-Up

By KENNY FRANEK

New season, same story. After Oklahoma and Florida were selected to play for the national championship the debate began: did the BCS select the two most worthy teams to play for the title? Well, let's just say the computers could have done worse. Oklahoma and Florida were the two hottest teams at the end of the season. Here are the cases for both teams…and for the team that was left on the outside looking in.

Oklahoma rattled off seven straight wins after losing to Texas. They put together a streak of five straight games scoring 60-plus points to end the season and over the course of the season, they never scored less than 35 points in a game. To top it off, they set a new NCAA FBS record for the most points scored in a season. It goes without saying that they were number one in points scored per game at 54. Their downfall was their defense, ranked 65th in the nation overall.

Florida put together a streak of nine straight wins to end their season, pummeling their opponents by an average of 34.4 points per game during that span. They allowed more than 21 points only once all season – in their loss to Ole Miss. While the Gators’ defense was good — ninth in the nation — their offense was even more impressive, ranking fourth overall in scoring with 45.2 points per game.

Then there was the team that defeated Oklahoma only to be left asking, "What about us?" The Texas Longhorns ranked 50th in total defense and 5th in the nation in scoring, putting up 43.9 points per game. Those are similar numbers to Oklahoma’s, which might explain why their game with the Sooners was so close. Unfortunately for them, their one loss came relatively late in the season to Texas Tech. The Horns did not have enough time to recover and put a solid win streak together (three games) at the end of the season like Florida and Oklahoma did following their losses. Instead, the Texas loss stayed fresh in the voters’ minds and hurt them in the BCS rankings.

So here we are. After all the debates and dissection of the one-loss teams, we have Florida vs. Oklahoma in the national championship game. There are two main questions to be asked of this game:

1) Can Florida's tenacious defense stop Oklahoma's prolific offense?

2) Can Oklahoma's defense slow down Florida's offense enough to outscore them?

Either way you look at it the key to the game is defense. Whichever defense plays well enough to contain the other's offense will likely win the title. It should be a shootout and a title game for the ages – the BCS appears to have gotten one right for a change.

Photo Credit: SEC Sports Media, OU Athletics Department

Heisman Results By Week

Five Heisman Thoughts

1. Expect A Close Race

On Thursday night, at The Home Depot ESPNU College Football Awards, Tim Tebow won the Maxwell Award given to the most “outstanding player”, Colt McCoy was selected as the “player of the year” by winning the Walter Camp Award and Sam Bradford took home the Davey O’Brien Award which is the “national quarterback award”.

Confused yet? Don’t look to the A.P. voters for help.

The same group of 20 that voted Bradford to the First-Team All- Big 12 and McCoy to the Second-Team, tabbed McCoy as the Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year.

2. What About Graham?

Despite winning the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award, given to the most “outstanding senior quarterback” (Tebow and McCoy are juniors, Bradford is a sophomore), the Texas Tech signal caller was not invited to the Heisman Trophy Presentation.

The Red Raiders head coach Mike Leach was not pleased, and I for one don’t blame him:

"If Graham is not invited to the Heisman, they ought to quit giving out the award. It is a shameless example of politics ruling over performance."

Here are how Harrell’s numbers stack with the rest:

Harrell: 4,747 Yards, 71.5 Percent, 41 Touchdowns, 7 Interceptions
Bradford: 4,464 Yards, 68.3 Percent, 48 Touchdowns, 6 Interceptions
McCoy: 3,445 Yards, 77.6 Percent, 32 Touchdowns, 7 Interceptions
Tebow: 2,515 Yards, 64.9 Percent, 28 Touchdowns, 2 Interceptions

* Harrell should not be labeled a “system quarterback” because all four play in spread offenses geared towards prolific numbers.
* If you want “more than just numbers” – Harrell’s Red Raiders were 11-1, the same exact regular season record that Bradford, Tebow and McCoy led their respective teams to. (P.S. He plays in the SAME conference as McCoy and Bradford.)
* New Heights: Unlike Texas, Oklahoma and Florida – one national championship each since 2000 – this is new territory for Texas Tech. That should count for something, no?

3. Too Exclusive?


Since 2000, seven quarterbacks have won the award with USC’s Reggie Bush (2005) the lone non-signal caller to claim the famous trophy. Unless your name is Tim Tebow, it would also behoove you to be on a top five team and lose no more than two games (Florida was No. 9 last year with three losses heading into Heisman week).

Here is the list (with A.P. Rankings):

2000: Chris Weinke, No. 3 Florida St. 11-1
2001: Eric Crouch, No. 4 Nebraska 11-1
2002: Carson Palmer, No. 5 USC, 10-2
2003: Jason White, No. 3 Oklahoma 12-1
2004: Matt Leinhart, No. 1 USC 12-0
2006: Troy Smtih, No. 1 Ohio St. 12-0

So, is the award for the most “outstanding player” or the best quarterback on a top five team?

Thanks to our friends at 50 Years of Football and the College Football Encyclopedia for the numbers.

4. The Best Non-Quarterbacks:

1. Michael Crabtree, Texas Tech, WR (Biletnikoff Award)
2. Andre Smith, Alabama, OT
(Outland Trophy)
3. Aaron Curry, Wake Forest, LB (Butkus Award)
4. Shonn Greene, Iowa, RB
(Doak Walker Award)
5. Rey Maualuga, USC, LB
(Chuck Bednarik Award)

5. Our 2008 Heisman Picks:

John Murphy:
1. Tim Tebow, Florida, QB
2. Colt McCoy, Texas, QB
3. Sam Bradford, Oklahoma, QB
4. Shonn Greene, Iowa, RB
5. Michael Crabtree, Texas Tech, WR

Daniel Mogollon:
1. Sam Bradford, Oklahoma, QB
2. Colt McCoy, Texas, QB
3. Tim Tebow, Florida, QB
4. Graham Harrell, Texas Tech, QB
5. Michael Crabtree, Texas Tech, WR

Rick Serritella:
1. Sam Bradford, Oklahoma, QB
2. Colt McCoy, Texas, QB
3. Graham Harrell, Texas Tech, QB
4. Tim Tebow, Florida, QB
5. John Parker Wilson, Alabama, QB

Photo Credit: College Press Box (Oklahoma, Texas, Texas Tech, Davey O'Brien Award)

BRADFORD TO EXPLORE OPTIONS

Oklahoma red shirt sophomore Sam Bradford told an Oklahoma newspaper that he will be exploring his options for the 2009 draft in the next few weeks. Bradford said he and his father plan to consult with NFL coaches, general managers and scouts before deciding whether to return to the Sooners next season. Bradford was one of three players named as finalists for this year's Heisman Trophy after he led the nation in passing efficiency this season while throwing for a school-record 4,464 yards for the 12-1 Sooners who will play Florida in the BCS title game in January.

Ralph Mancini and Ross Mandel of the NFL Draft Bible give their take:

Mancini's Take: If you're looking for a quarterback who makes quick decisions with a good arm, size, impressive mobility and impeccable accuracy, Bradford has all that and more. The talented Sooner really sold me on his future as a pro in a recent game versus Texas Tech in which Bradford continually used his feet to evade the rush and create passing lanes--something that the less-athletic Graham Harrell did not do. This kid looks like a winner to me, Rosstradamus.

Mandel's Take: Indeed he does, Rev...Bradford has the most important tools to be successful at the next level--a quick mind, a strong arm, and an accurate delivery. He also has moxie and as the Rev said, he's a winner. Bradford's timed speed is in the 4.7-4.8 range, but he has great pocket presence and to the best of my knowledge, no one has ever put a stopwatch on a quarterback's escapability--it's a matter of instinct and know-how, not timed speed. However, Bradford still has two years of eligibility left and although he'd be the first quarterback taken in the draft this coming April, he and his family haven't made a decision yet on his future.

Photo Credit: OU Athletics Department

Oklahoma's Sam Bradford named 2008 O'Brien Winner

FORT WORTH, Texas (December 11, 2008) - The Davey O'Brien National Quarterback Award® (The O'Brien) today proudly announced Sam Bradford as the 2008 O'Brien Winner. Bradford, a sophomore, competed against O'Brien Finalists Graham Harrell, senior, of Texas Tech and Colt McCoy, junior, of Texas for the award honoring the nation's best quarterback. The announcement was made earlier this evening by 1981 O'Brien Winner, Jim McMahon, on The Home Depot ESPNU College Football Awards Show which aired live from Orlando, Fla.

Bradford led the Oklahoma Sooners to a 12-1 record, Big 12 Conference Championship and No. 1 (BCS) ranking this season, as well as a berth in the 2008 National Championship. Bradford and the Sooners will face the Florida Gators and 2007 O'Brien Winner, Tim Tebow, when they head to Miami, Fla., for the Orange Bowl on January 8, 2009.

The signal caller from Oklahoma City, Okla., threw for 4,464 yards with just six interceptions this season, completing more than 68 percent of his passes. He is the nation's leader in both touchdowns (48) and quarterback rating (186.29). After only his second season as a Sooner starter, Bradford's 84 career touchdowns established a new school record, breaking the previous one held by 2003 and 2004 O'Brien Winner, Jason White.

"In the midst of fierce competition at the quarterback position, Bradford raised the bar for quarterback talent across the country," said Verne Lundquist, chairman of the Davey O'Brien National Selection Committee. "He stepped up as a tremendous leader for his team, exemplifying all of the traits The O'Brien seeks in its winner while leading the Sooners to an outstanding season."

Bradford was selected by The O'Brien National Selection Committee, comprised of journalists, broadcasters and commentators from coast to coast, in addition to former O'Brien Winners. College football fans across the country also had a say in the vote with five percent of the final voting tally coming directly from the Fan Vote. The O'Brien is proud to announce that it had 100 percent participation from its National Selection Committee in determining the 2008 award recipient. When voting, members of the committee are asked to evaluate each candidate on his quarterback skills, athletic ability, academics, character, leadership, sportsmanship and reputation as a team player.

Photo Credit: College Press Box (Oklahoma)