Open Post | Thursday, Mar. 12th (UPDATE 3:59 pm)
Posted on: March 12, 2015
Joshua Jackson: OU is still looking for their 2016 quarterback — although some, our own Brandon among them, would have you believe there’s a decent chance OU actually takes two QBs in this 2016 class — one of the guys they are interested in (who we mentioned to you a week ago, here) is Joshua Jackson out of Saline, Michigan. Jackson tells me that he’s planning to be in Norman in a little under month (Apr. 8th) for an unofficial visit. – (Brandon)
Augie Debiase: Another quarterback that OU seems to have their eye on, and who recently visited Oklahoma, is 2016 QB Augie Debiase out of Jacksonville, Florida. Debiase currently holds offers from Indiana and Virginia Tech. Oklahoma remains interested in Debiase, but is still in the process of evaluating him and, as such, an offer has not yet been extended.
Interestingly, Debiase has a tie to the Sooner state through former OU offensive coordinator and now QB guru, Joe Dickinson. Debiase travels to Oklahoma on a pretty regular basis to train with Dickinson. Debiase’s most recent trip, however, was the first time he visited the OU campus and he was impressed saying, “I love it, man. It was really pretty there and the facilities were great. They even were talking about upgrading the facilities. Plus, the history of the program and just dealing with coaches. Everything was just top notch.”
Offensive coordinator Lincoln Riley has plans on visiting Debiase to watch him throw in-person. Debiase also says he will be back up for a spring practice at OU, or the spring game. – (Brandon)
Quarterback Evaluations and Numbers: I’ve talked to a source who said that while it isn’t at all etched in stone at this point, there is a possibility OU will take two quarterbacks in this 2016 class. I suspect it has a lot to do with who it is and how it all plays out. There are several QBs that OU is currently evaluating (Debiase, Garrett, Jackson, etc.) and will continue to evaluate through the spring so it should become clearer shortly. – (Brandon)
Keyshawn Johnson: It was a whirl wind of a trip for Keyshawn Johnson and his California Team 19 All Stars. From California to Houston, then to Austin, on to Norman, and finally ending with at stop in Lincoln, Nebraska. I was fortunate enough to be able to catch up with former All-Pro, now ESPN Sunday Countdown host, and you could tell it had been a draining, but fun trip for he and his team.
We talked shortly after their stop in Norman “you get the normal stuff of stadium renovations, academics, locker rooms, dorms and nutrition,” Johnson said. He expanded on what junior days are like by adding, “the kids look at it as a different school, but they don’t look at the junior days as a difference. They know what they are getting into when they show up. It’s really all the same. The biggest thing is how personable the staff is and how rich the tradition can be, because all of them are going to tell you that you’re going to get an education. All of them are going to tell you that you’re going to win more games than the next team you visit. It’s all about if you’ve done your homework, as a staff, and being personable with the kid. Like telling them they liked their film and the plays they made in games. That’s the stuff the kids want to hear. Not the stuff some coaches think the kids want to hear.” – (Brandon)
Keyshawn on OU’s WR Numbers: OU did offer 2017 athlete Darnay Holmes during Team 19’s time in Norman, but it sounds like some yet to be determined numbers with respect to OU’s 2016 class as a whole may have prevented any other offers from happening. Keyshawn explained, “at receiver I don’t think they (OU) even know what their numbers are going to be after this year, coming behind the 2015 class. They may need four receivers, or they may just need three. They just don’t know yet. It’s a numbers game, which I understand completely.”
Schemes and personnel that the new coaches want to implement play a huge role in how they come up with the numbers and Keyshawn understood that, “when they have only been on staff for a couple of weeks, it’s tough to evaluate all those things in a short period of time. I think, in time, they will see how it plays out.” I suspect this all has a lot to do with Lincoln Riley wanting to really see what kind of talent he has as they go through the spring. – (Brandon)
Keyshawn Johnson Jr: Most of you are well aware the former Super Bowl winner brought along his son, 2017 WR recruit Keyshawn Johnson Jr., for the trip. OU has not yet extended an offer to Johnson Jr. yet, but he does hold offers from schools like Alabama, Florida State and many others. I asked Keyshawn Sr. if he thought OU would offer, and he gave a candid response that you’d expect from a guy that doesn’t mince words.
“I don’t know, but we aren’t chasing offers. We go to the schools to check them out and if there’s an opportunity, then we look at it. If you’re good enough to play for them, then you’re good enough. But every coach isn’t always going to like your game, so it’s really about who you like. There’s a lot a talent out there.” He went on, “I don’t worry about him (Johnson Jr.) getting offers. He has quite a few. So if he can’t find a school between the ones he gets, then he doesn’t need to go to college.”
When and/or if an offer is made, Keyshawn says they would probably come back to Norman. But as of right now, “we are just passing through.” – (Brandon)
– UPDATE (10:50 am):
Together we stand #OUnited pic.twitter.com/mXr0WiDg8A
— Ty Darlington (@TyDarlingtonUIW) March 12, 2015
– UPDATE (10:54 am): OU running back David Smith announced earlier this morning that he’ll be transferring to Jacksonville State.
– UPDATE (10:57 am): According to multiple reports this morning, OU has offered 2016 LB Darrian Franklin (Downey, CA).
– UPDATE (3:59 pm): Demetric Warren is reporting that OU has offered 2016 LB Jonathan Jones (Orlando, FL).
314 Comments
update added
Interesting stuff…Don’t know how our QB/WR numbers shake out when this is going to be a small class. We obviously need good numbers at DL and LB…especially with the move to the 4-front.
One question that is outstanding is who will transfer out. Changes in coaching staff often bring about transfers because guys realize they don’t fit the new system, don’t have the same relationship with their position coach, or just looking for more playing time. For instance I could see a RB transferring out because of the log jam at the position and going to a more pass oriented offense. That could affect the numbers we take. And the coaches may know who those guys are before we do.
And bingo you are correct. See update.
updates added
Pretty impressive letter….in my eyes it shows a lot of character.
Ty Darlington stepping into Gabe Ikard’s leadership shoes quite nicely. Very intelligent, well spoken student athlete.
How does a Ricky deberry fit in this new 4 man front seems there’s going to be log jam at the stand up DE spot
I’d guess he plays the wde and a guy like Campbell who is now at 265 lbs plays sde
First, thanks for checking into the secondary alignments. You guys are the absolute best!
Second, It seems to me that this “4-man front” concept is getting overhyped (not by you necessarily, just in general). Unless they’re bringing another LB onto the field when they walk Striker up to the 7-tech DE, it’s still a 3-man front. 3-3-5 or 4-2-5 doesn’t really matter. The only difference is alignment.
Have you heard anything about who else might be on the field when they walk Striker up on the line? Given our numbers @ LB, I don’t think it’s feasible for them to bring another LB who can play in space on the field.
WDE striker DT (3 tech) C walker DT (1 tech) romar SDE C Tapper ILB Alexander ILB J Evans CBs J Thomas and Sanchez S Parker and Byrd S/LB A Thomas. Obo and Bond are the backups to striker. Orso is a 3 tech and Wade a 1. M Dimon is the backup to Tapper. Backup LB are T evan and Bolton. As far as Deberry and McGinnis play, probably striker’s spot bc they rush the passer but are limited in playing in space. I can see Sunderland backing up Ahmad Thomas. He is a big kid.
Sub out Evans for Shannon and I completely agree
you know I thought about that but I just can’t put him in there until OU lets him back in.
Is the SDE the standup guy and does the WDE have his hand on the ground?
Is the new D a 4-2-5?
The wde is stand up playing the 7 tech
Chances they don’t take a RB in this class? They already have so many young guys on campus and if they are looking at taking 2 QBs and its gonna be a small class anyway that just makes sense to me to not take a RB
0.0000% chance they take no running backs. I think there’s a better chance they take 3 running back/ath. There’s a couple who play running back that I think would be better as slot receivers
Brooks definitely being one of them.
I like that DGB is claiming OU instead of Mizzou. Shows alot of loyalty to the program. I think he would of been a key difference especially in those close games that OU lost. Not sure if I would draft him in Fantasy Football YET. But I’ll definitely pull for him in the NFL.
This is getting old. These guys are pretty much making their own rules and really Coach is handcuffed because if he doesn’t go along with their “movement”, guess he could lose team. Just sick of hearing how they have been so hurt and affected. Not practicing, working out, whatever. Enough is enough. I am the biggest fan ever but this is way played out. Telling the President of the freaking University what they want done. Cry me a river. Done with it.
So if you can not support the students who are OU football why do you even care? These kids see this as an opportunity to do more good for the University then simply playing a game. I want them practicing as well but, they see an opportunity and are taking it. We get 15 practices during the Spring and guess what, we will get all 15 in.
I have supported this team and University dilligently for over 35 yrs and and am an alum. It’s my opinion of which clearly had some impact on you or you wouldn’t have taken the time to ask why I care. It was instilled in me from an early age when knocked down, get up and get back to work. Continuing to drag this out is doing no good. The players being on the field doing what they love will heal wounds faster than sitting around stewing about it.
You act like they won’t ever get back to work. They’ll get there 15 practices in, I assure you. I would rather they take this extended break and come back refreshed and ready to get back to work when their heads are in a better place.
Agree, seems like the victim culture has taken over. They ought to man up and get on with it.
well, i think that it could be they are taking a stand for all those who don’t have the podium to stand on. most people who are victims of racism, or anything for that matter, can’t or won’t stand up because they think they won’t be heard or are scared something worse could happen. i think they are manning up for everyone who can’t do it themselves. i don’t really think that there’s guys on the team that are so hurt that they just can’t go on. they’re using this as a teaching tool. and hopefully, as a football team, their voice is loud enough to be heard by whomever needs to hear it to get the ball rolling. if all these media outlets are trying to pin the tail on OU, then good for the football team for doing something with it and hopefully get word out that this ain’t what this university’s about, we’re about standing as one, as a community and hopefully doing some damage on this racism thing
Once again, you are spot on. Thank you for expressing clear and rational commentary.
thank you. i think its awesome. and its one of the characteristics of leadership. standing up for the collective when they can’t or won’t do it themselves. bravo boys, is right
Like you, I applaud these young men for using their platform in a positive way. My only concern is that the more they speak of a much bigger problem, they make it seem like the OU campus is some sort of mecca of racism, which it most certainly is not.
yeah. hopefully the good to come will far outweigh the bad. “you wanna say our campus has an infestation problem and is the root of all evil, well we’ll show you a campus that will do something that you won’t do and that’s to open eyes instead of point fingers”
I hope so. I really do.
To be fair, they spoke to it being a problem across the country. They just want to make sure that it is taken care of at home first before they start to expect changes anywhere else.
First day…fine…I understand and applaud the show of togetherness. After that it starts to look and feel contrived.
What appears to be insignificant, overdone, or contrived to those on the outside, is often the most significant undertaken those on the inside will ever be involved in.
I sincerely hope this is not the most significant undertaking these young men engage in in their lives. More than likely they will face tougher situations than being called names and experiencing ill will. I hope they learn to approach life’s problems with an eye towards solving them. While a demonstration of solidarity with each other and to show displeasure with the racist rant was appropriate, I believe that further demonstrations are probably counterproductive. If the football team feels this is an area it should engage, I would rather see it work to institute some kind of interactive process that might further a goal of reducing Individual racist thought.
In comparison to what? It’s this type of attitude that makes me worry about our society going forward. Is something like racism only worthy of a one day demonstration? This has been a life long struggle for countless people in many ethnic communities. To reduce it to a one day demonstration would probably look and feel contrived to all of those affected and involved. At least it would to me.
Think about it. If they want to talk about how serious they are about equality and then they point to a one day “show of togetherness” as a sign of that seriousness and dedication…would that not look contrived?
Sorry for contributing to your worries for our society. However, don’t believe I said the football team’s response should be reduced to a one day demonstration. Rather, I think a more positive response is called for. How about a dialogue with the fraternities? How about promoting, perhaps actively seeking, more interaction? I don’t see how a demonstration against racism furthers a goal of reducing it. I would rather see the team engage the members of the fraternity system. Take an adult approach.
I’m not sure how the football team’s demonstration is a negative response. Also, it’s been a week. I’m sure that their full plan, if they have one, hasn’t yet been enacted, so saying that they haven’t engaged the fraternity system is jumping the gun a bit. “I don’t see how a demonstration against racism furthers the goal of reducing it”…is there a proven action that does aside from forced legislation (which does nothing to reduce actual racism, it only combats the appearance of it)? If the team starts a movement that makes the campus a less than hospitable place for racist ideology, how does this not combat racism? Also, how is this a childish approach as opposed to the “adult approach” that you speak of?
I didn’t say the team’s response thus far was negative. I said “I think a more positive response is called for.” We may agree on this point…”a movement that makes the campus a less hospitable place for racist ideology…” I don’t believe a movement and a demonstration are the same thing. I see a demonstration as a feel good event for those participating, but I don’t think it substantially furthers the goal. If the guys come back from Spring Break and implement some kind of process that furthers the goal of reducing racism, the week off will have been worth it. Maybe they needed the time to work on what they can do–I hope that’s what they have been doing. We shall see. I do sincerely hope the outcome isn’t more demonstrations or symbolic actions like wearing black shirts. It would be wonderful if something constructive actually comes out of this sad affair.
Sorry, I didn’t mean to infer the team’s response thus far has been childish–adult approach was a poor choice of words. i should have said “Take a more effective approach.”
Well said. It’s ‘OU’ and most people nationwide don’t know anything about OU or Oklahoma in general other than football. I think it’s fitting that the team should have/want a university that they can be proud of and are standing tall as the most visible representatives of The University of Oklahoma.
100% agreed. These guys, whether we like it or not, are the big names on campus. For them to roll over and just act like it’s something that is “over played” after a week? That’s a disgusting thought to me. Call it “victim culture” or whatever you want (not YOU, boomersooner), but seeing kids stand up for something that is worth standing up for is more than admirable. To me, it’s a relief.
I’ve often wondered if there was anything that kids of this generation were passionate about, and they are proving to me that there is something they believe is worth making a big deal about. I’ve seen comments on this very board that talk about how selfish kids are these days. For the football team to stand up for every student on the campus puts this to rest. At least for me it does. In my opinion, it’s their responsibility as the big names on campus to step up and let everyone know that they’ll go beyond words to make sure something is done about a very serious issue. I applaud them.
Nice. I agree. If the big boys ain’t gonna up against it why should I type thing
You need to read the entire contract before you agree or sign it. How could you agree with that ignorant post?
I am guessing you didn’t expect a reply to this, so I offer none.
But…but…but, you did.
Ignorant Post!! How do you know that Stoops isn’t 100% supportive of their actions? Huh? Sick of hearing about how they’ve been hurt? Nothing like a white guy telling a group of black guys how they should feel when called racial slurs by white schoolmates!
Ok “Boomer Dave” critiquing somebody with a difference of opinion as being ignorant actually shows ignorance on your part. Good try though.
Agree with you, but don’t you think this is getting a little out of hand? I mean, frat guys (and other guys for that matter) rape girls all the time and commit other acts of violence while this takes center stage in the media. Do you really agree the outcry is just in this scenario? Is anyone going to be up in arms when these kids are savagely beaten for these undoubtedly racist expressions or something happens to their parents, who are receiving hate mail and death threats? Because, at the end of the day, the only thing these kids did was express their ignorant ideas. No one’s constitutional rights were infringed upon (unless you want to argue that the frat guys’ rights were taken), no one was deprived of life, liberty or property. Let’s save all this outcry for situations that actually warrant the outcry. Just because racism still exists, doesn’t mean there needs to be protests at every street corner every time someone says something racist. If someone isn’t aware that it still exists, then these protests will do nothing to change his or her mind.
Could not agree more.
I’m shaking my head. I don’t get it.
You’re entitled to that line of thought. What I don’t get is how you don’t see that the culture in our country needs to change. I also don’t get how you don’t believe these young men are being courageous by taking a stand. This is more important than a winning a football game. The games end. Life doesn’t. If this racist behavior continues to be pervasive in our society, it finds its way into our private lives.
Show some empathy, please. Your statement is consistent with someone who hasn’t had to be on the short end of the stick, when it comes to racism.
I applaud the team for taking this stance.
Bravo!!!
While I don’t agree with Brads tone, I don’t disagree with some of his sentiment. I know I’m not the only person of color that feels the actions are beginning to appear a little contrived, pointless or unwise. I’m glad the leaders of the team wanted to practice. I believe their wishes should have been honored and that the situation is being sufficiently handled. If folks want to continue to talk about it that’s fine but we’re all back at work.
I don’t see how they can’t achieve their goal of “integrating the student-athlete experience with the student experience” while going back to practice. I fear that the longer they protest, the worse it reflects on the University as a whole.
Just like the folks that protested in STL/Ferguson and NYC. Eventually, it just turned into a circus that accomplished nothing, and brought more bad press than good.
Sweeping it under the rug would accomplish nothing as well. They seem to want to stand as a role model to how other campuses should react to similar situations. To lump them in with those other protests, especially this early into it, is an unfair comparison. Just my opinion.
Why the concern for the University, only? This is a national issue. This impacts the USA’s brand with the rest of the world.
Srlsy?
I don’t understand. Didn’t they mention March 23 as the day that they will return to practice? There seems to be a plan in place. It’s not like they are just quitting on football. There will be enough practices. I’m sure of it.
In my opinion, I just don’t think the level of protest matches the level of the infraction. That’s all.
An infraction that has gotten 2 students expelled and an entire fraternity wiped from the campus? That seems like a pretty good sized infraction to me.
I would never suggest that they just get over it. If it sounded like I was saying that, it wasn’t my intention. I’m trying to give an opinion that also doesn’t come across as insensitive. The ignorance of few has prompted the team to completely shut down a very important aspect of their lives, albeit temporarily. I just feel, IMHO, they are giving these comments and the ignorant boys that said them too much power. It may not come across that way to some, but it does to me. We may not have all the information right now, but that’s the best way to express my opinion based on what I know.
Fair enough. I didn’t mean to imply that you said to “get over it”. My bad.
No worries, brotha. I enjoyed the convo.
Also, I do think that if the kids challenged the expulsions in court, they would be overturned. Not to get back into OU, but just to not have an expulsion on their record when trying to get into another school.
I personally don’t see the point, but that doesn’t mean anything. If the members of the team find it meaningful and are helped by doing this demonstration, I’m not sure it’s my place to disagree.
I think it was wise of the team leaders to go along with those who didn’t want to have practice, rather than forcing the issue. Team unity is paramount.
Super K, yes, at some point we do have to get back to our lives when tragedy happens. Sometimes that’s because of discomfort or awkwardness that makes us rush back before we’re ready or before we should. I think this is the ideal time to continue the dialogue. Leaders on the the team have to lead. Part of leading is making sure everyone is looking out for others, even at our on expense.
I will say that the leaders on this team, by honoring the wishes of the entire team, are demonstrating great leadership.
Fair points Sam. Thanks for the response.
This situation got bigger than the team very quickly. I can remember OU during Kent State. A lot of students were as emotional about that tragedy too. At this point in their young life, students are more emotional. Thus a letter that draws a conclusion that may or may not be accurate ( that the song wasn’t thought up by the kids involved and the demand that the Administration investigate the SAE leadership. Not clear if that’s national or local leadership.
Racism isn’t prevalent in society today. Of course there are racists out there, there always will be unless we find a way to eliminate ignorance. I think you can always expect students to make demands when they feel under attack.
I had no problem with a practice boycott, coaches would just reschedule. I wished they hadn’t boycotted class. That looked like they were using is as an excuse for not going to school.
I agree. This was not directed at the football team directly and the other sports teams seem to be going along just fine. You don’t have to forget what happened but you need to get your butts back to work. you’re getting a scholarship to play ball and get an education, do it.
They plan to go back to work on March 23. What did the original practice schedule look like? I think there’s an allowance of 15 “spring” practices. Are they off schedule?
I could not disagree more. I have seen what racism does to those affected. Obviously you’ve never been the object of racism & to that I say good for you. This is not just about healing, this is about orchestrating change. Racial bullies are every bit as disgusting as social bullies. Both are a POS. Until you have walked in their shoes, its best not to comment much about that which you know little of.
I understand the frustration. But its only been a few days. If they don’t take a stance and do all they can now, then it will appear that this issue doesn’t matter as much to them as it should. That would cause even more problems. It’s hard to move on when it seems like everyone is still talking about it here and nationwide. A little time off will be a good thing. Let emotions and reactions subside a bit and in the end, the team will be better for it, they’ll be closer and will trust that they all have each others backs from top to bottom. After spring break we’ll be talking 100% football and everyone will move on. Just give it a little time.
A few white dudes made it difficult for the Football team to be successful in the near future. So having the team do this actually does the very opposite…it shows that OU Football is standing together, the coaches support them, etc. Now young recruits who thought the worst of OU see the best in a program and university.
I like what they’re doing. It will help on many levels. It’s needed.
I agree the drama llama is getting a bit played out here. This had nothing to do with the athletic program itself although I understand their anger and it’s justified. This seems to be more about playing to, and imitating, other national social movements that are currently going on and the opportunity to make big scene of their own because they have national media attention on them. It’s getting really old, really fast.
And color me unimpressed with Mr. Eric Striker’s antics throughout this entire event. At a time when he had the opportunity to show leadership as an upper classmen and show the younger players the way to navigate this, he decided to do his best Samuel L. Jackson impression and go all Mississippi burning on his own school. Not impressed…
So, am I the only one wondering if this outcry for social justice from the football team will actually be backed up by real action from the players themselves… like a ban on use of the n-word by all players? Kinda of hard to justify your outrage about the horrible things some frat guys said when more than half team uses the word themselves. If they really are that upset about the video as they say, then they should start the change with themselves. Stop using the word or quit complaining that others have used it.
I think they were more concerned with the tree reference than with the “n” word.
It’s all part of the same whole. I can guarantee you the response would have been just as strong without the lynching reference. The whole chant was racist and exclusive. Again, if racism bothers them (and it should bother everyone) and they really want to make a stand against racism, then they should make a real stand. Stand up and say “as part of our stand against racism, we as a team will no longer use a word with a history of racism and hatred.”
I agree that the use of that word should be banned from the team and any other organization for that matter. Teaching these kids that the word in any form is unacceptable, whether in song or just casual conversations should not be tolerated.
Have you listened to the music they play on radio nowadays? That word plus many others are commonplace in Pop music. I can’t stand it. And this generation grew up with it. It is awful all the way around.
interesting you bring that up………heard a theory on the radio yesterday concerning the 2 tx kids, et al……….besides their lack apparent lack of historical knowledge as a constraint on actions, what music did this group listen to for yrs that might be contributory
That and the sense of not being valued. Have you ever heard “Strange Fruit” by Billie Holiday?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h4ZyuULy9zs
Haunting, isn’t it?
Interesting historical note on this song… Billie Holiday’s regular record label (Columbia?) wouldn’t record it so she recorded it at Commodore Records owned by Milt Gabler, who was Billy Crystal’s uncle.
Interesting. Thanks for the information.
Born and raised in the hills, huh?
Nope, born and raised in Norman. Nice try though.
Wouldn’t have ever guessed.
That’s alright, many people are so narrow minded that their tunnel vision blinds them into making incorrect assumptions.
I’m sure you’re familiar with the old idea that you can call your family anything you wish but God help anyone else who does? I’m white and while I was in the military, I got called the N word as much as anyone because they saw me as family. I was ok with that. It wasn’t derogatory, it was a reference to being close / family.
I am aware of that. But my point stands, if they really want to make a difference then start with making a change themselves. Lead by example. I’m sick of everyone being outraged by the actions of others, but not being willing to actually make changes themselves. I support the players stand against racism… but if they are really moved to be a force for change, they should start by making a choice to take action themselves rather than to point their finger at everyone else and say “you people all need to change.”
i see your point. “clean up your own skeletons before bringing attention to others”. metallica’s “leper messiah” comes to mind about evangelists who preach but are rotten to the core off the podium. but how do we know they aren’t making strides in their personal lives to better themselves as well as bringing attention to this pandemic
We don’t know that they’re not. That was part of the reason I asked the question. If the players are upset and wanting to be a force for change, the best way to start is to make changes in your own actions. And as highly visible group of people with a platform, I’d love to see them come out and say exactly what I hinted at… “we are going to stop using a word that is steeped in hatred. We are taking this action as a first step toward bringing about a greater change.” It would be a powerful message… far better to say “look at what we’re doing to make a difference. Why don’t you follow our lead?” than to point fingers and say “you people need to change.”
so you’re saying you would feel better if their letter said the words “we will stop using the word and then bring awareness” instead of “we will bring awareness”? just trying to understand where you’re coming from. they’re trying to change the culture and what they do with themselves is on them. because i don’t really feel bad that they are trying to bring about change, with or without the wording of self-change
I’m saying that anytime someone stands up and says “hey there needs to be a change” the most powerful message they can say is “it starts with me.” Michael Jackson said it best “I’m starting with the man in the mirror.” If the team wants to make a call for change (and make demands of the university in the process), let them start by making a statement of what actions they are taking. A great leader doesn’t say “You! go make project X happen.” A great leader says “work with me to make this project happen.”
you’re making good points. its just that even if they come out and say that they will start with themselves don’t mean its gonna happen. i’d rather see it than be given words. words can be hollow and empty, but if by your actions you’re showing me something, then i can get behind that. yes, if you’re asking for change and running around dropping n-bombs all over campus, you’re message is gonna fall on deaf ears
Oh and the “Leper Messiah” reference is perfect. I grew up in a pentecostal church and there is nothing I find more distasteful than a “man of God” pointing at the sinners and telling them they have to stop having sex outside of marriage and drinking… and then he gets pulled over for DUI with a prostitute on his lap and it’s revealed he’s been seeing the prostitute for 15 months. We’re all human and we all make mistakes. But, if you spend 15 months telling me to straighten my life up while you’re doing the same things you condemn me for, that’s not a mistake, that’s hypocrisy. (And for the record, the previous example were used for demonstrative purposes only… I rarely drink and never visit prostitutes. LOL)
Freedom of speech allows the players to say whatever they want to one another. If they want to use the word, that’s their prerogative **starts humming Bobby Brown’s ‘My Prerogative’** But, to me at least, their stand rings hollow if the team still allows the use of that hate-filled word.
haha. nice on the examples. yeah i was raised southern baptist but we had an awesome pastor my whole life. but that song is great especially since it was written around the time all of em were getting in trouble. yes, you definitely don’t want your words to ring hollow, especially if you are a man of God and have a flock that He wants you to shepherd. good talk brother, keep em coming
Not defending the alternative, but people like Chris Rock would argue that the use of the word between Blacks is akin to whites calling one another dudes right? In fact, he says rappers and artists have made the term poetic. Any response?
Dude was never a derogatory word for white guys. If a black guy calls a random white guy on the street “Dude!” the white guy isn’t going to be offended and likely to bust him upside his head. Let some white guy call a random black guy the n-word and see what reaction you get.
A vast majority of black people are going to be highly offended by a white person using the n-word (nigga or the other) and rightfully so. For that reason, equating the n-word between black folks to dude between white folks clearly isn’t equal.
So…are you saying its racism for a black guy to call another black guy the n-word?
You are telling others its ok to use that word. The act itself may not be racist, but you are inviting racism.
its no different than using the word retard around a mentally handicapped person.
How can the intent be to hurt, when no black people were around? If I say words that nobody else hears, how is my intent to hurt the person I’m talking about.
That is what pisses me off about this. The intent was to “make a bad joke” to get his friends to like him more. Or some version of that. To fit in. To stand out. I bet that dude, or those dudes, have neither one said the n word in front of an actual black person.
I think you might have meant to reply to someone else.
The post above yours, yes.
” It’s no different than using the word retard around a mentally handicapped person”.
Uh….yeah it is. If I call a mentally handicapped person a “retard”, then shame, shame on me. But if a group of mentally handicapped people want to joke around and call each other “retards”, then I think that’s rather humorous. Does the movie “The Ringer” ring a bell to you? I think black people use the n-word the same way mentally handicapped people use the r-word, and that is to deflect from the pain it causes to hear others use the word about them.
Can’t say I’ve ever heard a mentally handicapped person call another one a retard before, but I’m sure it’s happened before. Strange to think about, though.
Again, I refer you to the movie The Ringer with Johnny Knoxville where he is pretending to be handicapped so he can win the Special Oympics”
I was referring to real life.
I didn’t say call them a retard, I said using that word around them. That’s not ok.
If they call themselves that, but get mad at others for saying it, it’s kinda the same case we have here.
Don’t want people saying it? Don’t use it yourself, period.
I’m not sure the word is used in the same context when used within the black race. However, that still doesn’t make it right to use it. I despise that word.
When watching that video, though, it’s meant to hurt. The intent is to make someone feel lesser and send the message that “I hate you.”
No, Dave, I’m not saying it’s racism if a black man calls another man the n-word. I’m saying the word has a history of hatred and degradation. If two black guys want to call each other that or if a black rapper wants to use it, that is their prerogative. Freedom of speech, you know. But, if you want to be upset about racism and make a stand as the football team is, then it is highly hypocritical to do so while continuing to use a word internally that, externally, is the embodiment of the hatred you’re standing against.
I guess the way I look at it is similar to the way the Revolutionary soldiers reacted to the word “Yankee”. They adopted it to show that the word had no real power. However, if used in the right context, almost any word can be looked at and used as an insult. When the word takes on that tone, it’s an entirely different word. You’ve pretty much said the same in your “neep” comment. It’s not the word that’s the problem, it’s the mindset. At least that’s how I feel about it.
2 anecdotes that led to me hoping all people, white and black, will stop using the n-word once and for all.
One of my very good friends is nicknamed “Blue.” His name is Darrell, but other than his mother, I’ve never heard anyone call him anything but Blue. He is the darkest skinned black man I’ve ever seen and he got the nickname from the guys on our football team long before I was on the team. The story goes that one of the guys told him he is so black he’s blue… and within weeks that was what everyone was calling him.
Blue’s favorite meal in the whole world is fried chicken, collard greens and mashed potatoes… and on our team where I’m the only white guy, they always gave him hell about how he was perpetuating stereotypes with the white folks by ordering that when I was around.. It was a big, inside joke amongst us and we’d all laugh cuz we’re just one big family.
One Sunday afternoon, Blue ate with me and my family at a Mexican restaurant. We’re sitting there and Blue wasn’t saying much so being the irreverent big-mouth, joker that I am, I say to him “What’s wrong, Blue, you mad cuz they don’t have fried chicken and collard greens here?”
Right as I say it, there was a lull in the noise in the restaurant so pretty much everyone heard it and the place went silent as a graveyard. Blue busts out laughing at what I said and how everyone reacted. But, it dawned on me that what we say, even between close friends that are like brothers, can have an effect on others. There was an elderly black couple sitting not far from our table and to this day I hope that what I said didn’t cause them pain. At their age, they undoubtedly had seen the uglier, more open side of racism in their youth and I’m sure hearing that could have been a painful reminder of times it was said, not as a joke between brothers, but with hatred and disdain from some racist prick to a black man.
2nd incident was very recent… my son is autistic. At 6, he has been around my ball buddies and players that I coach in basketball all of his life. He’s 6 and being autistic he takes things very literal and models whatever behavior he sees.. So imagine the stir he caused a couple of years ago when a black gentleman sitting by him in the gym said “hi little man, how are you?” and he replied “whuz up nigga?” That’s what a lot of the black men he had been around had said to each other. That’s how several of the kids playing for me would greet him… so he didn’t know any better. Being a 4 year old autistic kid who had heard that phrase a lot of times, he didn’t know the rules. But that was when I it really hit me that with all the hate associated with that word… it’s time for it to go. Everywhere. With all people. There’s gotta be a better way. Just my 2 cents on the issue.
Great stories. I get what you’re saying, it’s just that I think it’ll take more than just dropping the usage of said word.
My point in my original post on this topic wasn’t that we can end racism if young black men stop calling each other “nigga.”
The point I was making is that, given the history of hatred and hurt associated with that word, a positive step they could take is to say “we’re not just going to point our finger and say you people need to stop racism… we’re going to take action ourselves. We’re going to make a pledge to stop using a word among ourselves that we would find highly objectionable coming from someone of another race.”
To me, it’s akin to politicians who rail against pork barrel politics… but when you check their record, they’ve had more money earmarked for their district than anyone. Is government pork spending harmful as the country goes broke? Yes. Do these politicians realize it’s a real, legitimate problem? Yes. But, they keep in arranging to get money for their district so they can go home and campaign and raise money on “look what I’ve brought the district. ”
This is the same thing. Do the players know racism is a problem? Yes. Are at least several of the players upset and hurt about the chant? Yeah, obviously so. But if they are really serious about making a change, and leading that change, then they need to step up and be leaders in stopping the use of that word.
I’ll give 2 quick stories that led to me feeling the way I do about the use of that word in a follow up post…
Are they not putting themselves out there as an example? Do you feel that if this one demand isn’t met, that they wouldn’t be serious enough about the change they seek? Does it all come down to one word, or an entire mindset?
I wish they would ban the use of that awful word. Nothing strikes a cord in me as when I hear it. It’s forbidden in my house. It makes me cringe.
How do you know they call each other that? Or are you just sterotyping?
For starters, I have a lot of black friends (many of them long time friendships that started in locker rooms as teammates) and I’ve coached many young basketball players so I am familiar with how athletes talk to each other, and with how young black men frequently speak to one another in general. Second, I have heard players on this team say it to other players with my own ears. I do not know how pervasive it is on the team because I’m not around them much at all. But it is used.
So because you’ve heard other black people use it they must too? ….ok, And me being a black male that’s coached basketball teams and have hundreds of black friends and families I can tell you, you’re wrong and stereotyping them.
Sorry, my friend, but I’m not wrong and I’m not stereotyping anyone. Maybe you missed the part where I said I have heard members of this current team use the term. That’s not stereotyping… that is sitting in a restaurant on campus corner and hearing more than one player say it to other players.
You’ll have to understand something about me. I speak openly about issues of race. I don’t hide behind “safe language” for fear someone might think I’m a racist. I’m not and you don’t have to be around me very long to know that. I grew up attending predominately black churches. A large percentage of my friends as a kid were black. So I’m used to speaking openly and without filter. Hell, on one of my flag football teams as an adult I was the only white guy on the team and my nickname was NP (pronounced ‘neep’) because of a funny incident where one of my teammates kept saying “nigga please” over and over to me. So you can probably see how I came to be very open and frank in such discussions. As far as I’m concerned, we’re all one big family, some of us just have a little different family resemblance.
So if you read my initial statement as being racist or stereotyping, either I didn’t express my thoughts well or you simply misunderstood the intent of my message. Either way, it’s all good.
I respect that.
If you want to stop the negative use of the word you need to make the word taboo for all. The double standard is deadly to any argument about hurting people.
The word has two totally different meanings and two different spellings, depending upon who is using the word. One is a despicable racial slur intended to be hurtful and demeaning to a black person and comes from darkest times in our nation’s history. The other is a term of affection used amongst friends. It’s all about the intentions of the user of the word.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9uvJzr0zZvk
Feel free to continue discussing the letter but please avoid personally attacking others. People have a right to express their opinion.
Absolutely agree. This is a classy forum. Let’s keep it that way.
Only thing I have to say about the letter is them boys need to embrace the concept of the paragraph.
Will it really diminish the statement to practice and then protest? I think they need to get back to work as well. Do both.
I have been responding to people the last two days who have now taken the stance of “OU has shown racism is awful but violence against women is OK.” Read the comments on Bruce Feldman’s Tweet if you want to see further proof of the poop storm that is coming over all of this. This is such a mess. The incident did not involve the football team at all yet it has now turned to a football story. Sad and bad deal.
It’s sad that people associate all that and lump the incidences into one argument. Total different situations and circumstances. All received consequences and were dealt with accordingly. People just want to argue the severity of the consequences.
It’s the victim society. Those who weren’t even affected by any of this look at it as “Something was said that offends me or that I disagree with and I demand something be done.”
My two cents…If the football is standing together and not practicing because they want to raise awareness about racisim kudos to them, but if they are using this as an excuse to get out of practice, thats a shame but even if they did practice under that scenario it wouldnt matter because they probably wouldnt be gaining anything from it. Either way, come back after spring break refreshed and ready to work their a$$e$ off!
These kids have worked their whole life to get where they are, and are working as hard as possible to be champions and go on to the next level. I cannot believe this is any excuse to get out of practice.
I would guess that a large majority of them are working out as hard or harder this week.
And I agree with that, just trying to say I see both sides of the argument
20% open post = Football
80% open post = not
http://c1.thejournal.ie/media/2014/06/smh-rock-o.gif
You can always come back tomorrow.
My boss will be back tomorrow lol.
Now that’s funny right there!
Please complain more about the free content.
DAD! Now that’s a lotta ‘roids!
Is there anything us fans can do at the spring game to show our support for the team and the cause? Wear a black shirt or something? Please let us know how to be a part of the solution by showing we care.
Make an all black OUnited shirt and everyone can wear them!
I’d buy one and wear it.
I think everyone deserves a second chance no matter who you are or what you did. as an African American man, a Christian and a collegiate student I’ve already said how this affected me. I have a close friend who is an SAE and wasn’t in that video but is feeling backlash and all he said to me was “I love you and I’m sorry” and it really made me think about this situation. Furthermore it isn’t fair/appropriate to tell anyone how they should feel in a situation or how to deal with it so as the loyal fans we say we are, we should do our job to back the team 100%, not bash them because we love football. They need us as well. I honestly have feelings about how the situation can get handled but it’s not my place. My place is to do what I need to do mentally to be able to forgive as I have been directed to do. Support the team and be happy they are doing what they can to mend the campus while keeping a strong locker room. Like the team, I haven’t forgiven those men, but in time I will.
Also I apologize to anyone I have offended during this time. I feel extremely passionate about the situation and I can’t stand when someone tells me how to feel or to get over it, but any response on my part is just as negative.
It’s your god given right to think and feel how you want. It is also your responsiblity to stand up and take responsibility for the actions and words. Association does not create liability unless you are aware of the actions. There are certain things like racism or bullying, that if we see it happening or have knowledge of the possibility of it happening, we should take a stand and say this is not acceptable- this is not right. WE have to change the culture, otherwise this will always excist.
I agree. The other lesson is to think of relationships that go beyond our race, gender, or any affiliation. Then think of responsibly and be accountable to other people. If the kids on this bus would have thought about Chris’ relationship with people outside the SAE, they would have made a better decision.
Some people get so caught up in fitting in they let their morals slip. The strong minded will always influence, but those who can be influenced need to understand there is other groups they can fit into without allowing their morals to be ignored. Which in turn there has to be other avenues for those people to fit. The inclusion part the team is stating they want has to be for all. I hope this is the direction they are headed.
Wow, these guys must also be paranoid about black helicopters following them and conspiracy theories.
it is hard but some times the needs of the many outwieght the needs of the few, or one. Spock.
In this case the needs of the entire OU campus/nation must be weighed over the SAE chapter. If we dont make a clear statement then the gray fog of apathy will creep back in. Change must be swift. I feel bad for those that were not directly involved, but perception is everything and reality is nothing in this case.
So you are against due process and the 1st amendment.
As horrible as that was the answer is never to have less free speech. The only way to ever get past this is to have more free speech and expose those that are stupid or bigoted. Who gets tto be the arbiter of appropriate speech?
You are all for SAE being punished as a whole in the name of something. I bet you’re not so excited when the mob comes for you.
Boren chose to win the PR war and lose the legal one down the road.
Actually @brainpimp:disqus, he’s not even winning the PR war. Many people out there are questioning his treatment of Joe Mixon in light of the recent expulsions.
And rightfully so.
Actually, he is. Other than the few 1st amendment, due process guys, (count me as one of those) He is having praise heaped on himself and the University. Both are being lauded for illegally doing what he did in the name of caring.
As far as this to Mixon and Shannon. Apples to Orangutans. Like I said I’m a due process guy and think that, Shannon especially, got railroaded with this new Title IX disaster that has been foisted on the Universities.
You really think so @brainpimp:disqus? Cause a casual search of “Joe Mixon” on Twitter and Google paints an entirely different picture…………
Change? You’re not going to change how people feel about one another. People are going to talk badly about other people behind closed doors from until eternity.
Chris, I agree completely that it isn’t fair or appropriate to tell someone how they should feel. But I think it’s completely within the grounds of fairness to express an opinion about the actions the team does or does not take. You may disagree and you may be right to but myself and a number of other fellas I’ve spoken to feel that, rightly or wrongly, missing the entire week of practice isn’t helping the perception of our minority community or the cause itself. I know that the player leadership wanted to practice but I feel in terms of the perception…this isn’t helpful. Just my opinion and I certainly concede I could be wrong.
This is a difficult issue for any orginization to deal with. Very touchy. If they are taking the time off to gather their thoughts and figure out how to move forward, I don’t have a problem with that at all. If they have to practice on a more consistent basis to get the work in, that shouldn’t be an issue. They apparently are working with the coaches and the administration to make the campus and world a better place, how can that be a bad thing.
I gotta admit, before today, I didn’t know who David Smith was. GL to him though.
In my opinion…I don’t really know what it is like to be a D-1 athlete let alone one who plays football in Oklahoma. Perhaps, these guy’s have had enough and are looking at the big picture. If the baseball or soccer program stops practice or voices an opinion of being wronged no once cares or it won’t get publicity. But if the football team does it, the media and fans will take notice. Some grievances have come from the players, the Baker Mayfield incident, the, players who are recruited by a program only to have the head coach leave the day after they sign. If a company has employees it’s important for them to be treated withe respect, but then again these aren’t employees these are students. And the one moneymaker for the university is football, so yeah these are guy’s who have an impact on policy. If there is a student on campus who isn’t welcome or shuttley persecuted then it needs to be addressed no matter what their race, religion or creed. Now is the time not to go back to the status quo or ignoring it but to bring the issue to light and open it do discussion until an reasonable effort to resolve a problem is made.
One thing that has stood out to me is my impression of Eric Striker. He reminds me of the charisma that J.C. Watts displayed, a future Congressman perhaps?
So they get a extra week of practice since they didn’t practice this week?
No. They still have to fit in the 14 remaining practices (incl. the R/W game) w/in the allotted 34 consec. days (excl. next week b/c of spring break).
I take it that they will have to fit 14 practices in 21 days. Plus still not go over the 20 hours a week rule as well.
Correct.
https://twitter.com/AdamSchefter/status/576076046602268673
They agreed to terms already? Oakland losin out…again.
This means I will have to stop hating the Eagles. Gonna be tough…ugh.
I like demarco and happy he’s getting his money but since he and Bradford look like they’ll be on the same team, I hope he proves to be worth the money.
Love Sam Bradford, but HATE the Eagles!
Love Demarco Murray, but HATE the Eagles!
Love Lane Johnson, but HATE the Eagles!
Love the Dallas Cowboys, AND WILL ALWAYS HATE THE EAGLES!
Worst news ever!
I’m with you Doobie. I’m having a hard time coping with this!
This isn’t Mr. “Jerry” Jones is it! LOL!
Shhh!!!
could be worse you could be a ‘Skins fan *lowers my head in shame* lol
For me, with free agency he way it is, it’s hard for me to be a fan of any professional team. I’m a fan of the players. Therefore, I like the Vikings and now the Eagles. Just love to see my Sooners have success.
This exactly except delete ” Dallas Cowboys” and add “NY Giants”
The whole division is a negative for me. I won’t say “hate” for anyone, but I DISLIKE:
The Dallas OWNER
The Redskins OWNER
The Giants COACH
The Eagles FANS
Philadelphia Sooners…Jeremy Maclin couldve been one too(Wish he wouldve been)
So it is really about 7 mil a year for 3 years +/- depending on bonus and when he can be cut. I guess that is better than Jerrah’ can offer, but it is less than McCoy’s 25+ mil guaranty. it seems smart on Philly’s part – Less money for comparable back AND the bonus of reducing your main rival by the same player.
Which is probably about 10 mil after uncle Sam gets his cut.
https://twitter.com/Jordan_Esco/status/576078161806413824
Boy, they are flat blowing things up down there. I even heard a report last night that said Brees is not off limits, although I’m sure it’d take quite the offer to get him.
I’d unload the older vets before I did Kenny.
seems strange………..thought their d was the big problem last yr
Yeah their D was terrible, most of their cap must be on the offensive side.
http://makeameme.org/media/created/that-dont-make-40ydhq.jpg
Chip, are you on the phone to NO? And if you hurry, maybe you can re-arrange things to get Gresh as your tight end.
Didn’t they release Brees or are trying to trade him? Think I remember hearing that.
I’ll take him down here in Houston!
Chip knows who had the ball
I still get anger-sad everytime I think about that game.
Worst call ever. They didn’t even ask how the OU player got the ball. What idiots, the ref looking in the pile.
The refs decided before the ball was even kicked off that Oregon was going to “recover” the onside kick. The fix was in that game.
I normally think those kinds of comments are “sour grapes” types of comments, but in this circumstance, the result of that game was ABSOLUTELY CORRUPT. There were multiple infractions and referee mistakes on that play (offsides, illegal touching by Oregon, OU recovering the football, etc.). To compound it, Gordon Riece said the only camera view they had was an end zone view, which ABC immediately debunked, saying they sent EVERY angle they had to the booth.
That game in Lubbock where OU stopped Amendola a yard and a half short on 4th down, and the ref spotted it beyond the 1st down marker, and shortly after that when they ruled the RB scored the TD when his knee was down before the ball ever crossed the plane…I am absolutely certain that game wasn’t officiated “on the level”. I’m reasonably sure the Keith Stanberry INT was a hometown call (one of many reasons I want to move the game out of the state of Texas).
But no game had more corrupt officiating than the Oregon game.
Absolutely, that call stank to high heaven…but there are one or two calls that I deem even worse. The infamous “5th Down” with Mizzou/CU comes to mind.
nominate this as the Post of the CENTURY!
With what 8 or 10 former ducks and accumulating OU players, soon he’ll be down to Ohio U to keep his string going.
For those that did not see my post in the other thread, here is balance to the extreme we have been having to deal with over the last few days. For those that saw this, my apologies for the repeat but feel we all need a positive light.
https://www.phideltatheta.org/2015/03/message-tyrone-speller-phi-delta-theta-chapter-president-university-oklahoma/
….damn, I read it on the news site and was getting ready bring it over……would be a good read for the fb guys
Afternoon OUWoofer. Hope all is well.
The broad brush is always a terrible reality. From the ashes we grow more powerful and intelligent, at least this is my hope.
Amen BDR.
It looks like Jordan and DGB may be the only OU first rounders this year. Would of been cool to see Daryl and or Tyrus up there too.
I can’t remember but I think tyrus is the LT and I think he’s the one who had a good showing at the combine. He could sneak up there if enough people compare him to Trent Williams
If Chip keeps up his OU trend, he could use either one at pick 20 (NG or tall WR) and come back for an OU O-lineman at 52. Unless some silly duck pick gets in the way.
Does anyone have any idea where Curtis Lofton might end up?
Signed with Oakland.
Thanks!
It’s kinda sad to see that the only thing some people seem to worry about is the fact that the team isn’t practicing. I can’t even begin to imagine how bad it hurts to hear that kind of stuff from people who are supposed to be your biggest fans. Really folks, there’s much, much more important things in life than football. If this is something that they feel is helping them and making them feel like they’re making a difference in society, I’m all for skipping practice. Take as long as you need, guys! I’m glad to see the whole team/school/state united on this.
I agree with your sentiments precisely. However, you and I are in a huge minority on this board.
Nahhh maybe not so much:-)
I’m all for the team standing up for what they believe in, but I just don’t understand how this, of all things, is the type of action/harm they choose to take a stand against. The scope of the harm done in this particular instance is miniscule compared to the harm done in so many other types of situations affecting college students, and especially football players. As I stated below, no one was physically harmed or deprived of any constitutional right so the only thing these protests do is bring awareness that racism still exists, which should be obvious at this point and even if it’s not, these protests won’t change the minds of those who believe otherwise as they are too far gone anyway. It doesn’t evoke change in any major way because no one will look at this situation as particularly important, especially compared to the fights that were fought during the Civil Rights Movement. The media and those making a huge deal of this are simply grasping at straws.
You know, you make some valid points. Truly you do, but I will defer to the majority on the team. Take this week and spring break off to clear their heads a bit and come back ready to play. Clairty can be a really good thing.
Fair enough. I’m all for whatever unites the team and makes them stronger, I’m just a little shocked it’s this. To each his own, I suppose. I do hope they come back with some fire, though.
This will unite this team or tear it apart it would’t surprise meif this team goes 14-0 or 6and 6 if it’s the latter the Bob Stoops era is probably over and the chaos could take years for us to rebound to getting back to national prominence.
….I agree no one knows where this is going
This has the potential to leading to ou sliding do national irrelevant when you have some of your own players saying they wouldn’t send their own family to play for ou you have a volatile situation that could go the wrong way for ou.
Yeah that comment by some players was uncalled for in light of the fact that mostly everyone is citing the idiot racists. Hopefully, the team leaders have shown that this is overstating the case and is simply shooting yourself and your own legacy in the foot.
Agree because everything is program is gone through the last year the last thing this team needs now is for some players to tear this team apart.
so, not to call your fandom out….but help me to understand people like you and how you think. mostly everything you post, and quite a few other posters, are stated this way. you bring up something positive(we could go 14-0)and quickly speak to it and then jump all over the end of the bob stoops reign and the downward spiral and nothing in my life is ever good and how the world could end before OU is good again. just hoping y’all can shed some light onto what it is. do you hate bob? are you even a fan? just a bitter taste in your mouth that comes out in your posts? i am not poking fun, i am sincerely asking
First no i don’t hate bob stoop’s there is a lot i respect about him, second i am just giving different scenarios that could happen because of the fall out of all this.last i am just going to ignore your last half hearted statement about is ou going to win another championship before the end times it’s obviously like some other people on this website you must hate true Biblical Christians like myself.
no jimmy b. i love the Lord. and i don’t think its blashpemous for me to talk about the end of the world and OU not winning another title or being good again. my point was clear. why do you people barely touch the tip of the iceberg with regards to the good, and sit and go on and on and on about the bad. and congrats, you are the first pessimistic Christian i’ve ever met
I don’t view myself is negative just look what’s going on in this country and around the worldlike the Middle East , Ferguson Missouri the bible tells us when we can you see these signs come to pass look up and rejoice because your redemption draws near that’s negative that positive for a true Christian.
yes i can’t wait for the Rapture either. but you still don’t answer the question. is it just a bad taste left in your mouth? something has to be driving you to write in this fashion
No the problem is most people including most of the churches don’t take the scripture seriously anymore i don’t hate anyone and I truly hope we can get past this problem and go on to win the national championship at ou that would be great but at the same time I’m not going to be in a state of denial of what’s going on in this country or this world.
are you a politician? cause you can dance around a subject like nobody i’ve ever seen
Yes I did answer your question no I don’t have any bad taste in my mouth, second I’m much too politically incorrect political politician never would get elected.
haha. you might. never can tell. ventura got elected, jc watts got elected, largent got elected all the way down the line to the guy from snl who got elected up in minn i think it is. i see your answer to rphokc, that’s the kinda thing i was looking for. you’re kinda cynical which is ok. just looking for clarity as to what makes someone phrase something the way they do
But i live down here in miami which is a very liberal city my conservative views would never get me elected in a liberal city like Miami I will say I love the warm weather down here don’t have to deal with the cold weather in the winter.
oh cool. i like miami but i love ft lauderdale. cold kinda sucks after awhile
That’s why i live in miami when it’s 80 degrees in January in Miami and it’s negative 10 everywhere else well you can do the math.
Just because no one was physically hurt doesn’t mean there was no harm done. The fact that you don’t see that is a bit troubling to me. You talk about racism like it’s “obvious” and not a big deal. Did you know that those kids of things were happening at SAE? I sure as hell didn’t… Not exactly obvious. The fact that you question as to why they choose this event is also pretty sad. Does it need to take someone getting lynched to finally speak up? This is the perfect time to stand up and speak out. The eyes of the nation are on OU right now, and if they can inspire just one person to make a stand against racism then it is a success in my book. Remember, choosing to remain neutral in situations like this means you side with the oppressor.
I didn’t say there was no harm done so I don’t know what you are so “troubled” about. Of course it’s harmful for kids to hear these words and chants. No one is questioning that, but like I’ve said a few times now, at the end of the day you have a bunch of drunk white guys on a bus singing an ignorant racist song. Are the national news organizations publicizing the fact that those kids’ parents are receiving death threats due to their son’s actions? Last I checked death threats, even in response to hateful speech, is worse than the hateful speech itself (and illegal).
You seriously didn’t know that young white males, some of whom may be racist while others simply say racist or other taboo things in order to be rebellious or get a rise out of others??? I sure as hell did…because I remember how it felt to be a dumbass teenager. Does it make it right or is it an excuse for the behavior? Hell no. But to be surprised that privileged white kids say racist things is complete ignorance. The problem is, when you stand out against each and every act of racism, it begins to weaken your cause because the majority will start to view it as the sheep that cried wolf. Choose your battles and you will make a much bigger impact and affect change.
I totally agree with you about not repaying hatred with hatred… that’s a vicious circle. However, I guess we’ll just agree to disagree on most everything else.
I don’t necessarily disagree with a lot of what you say. I think, and I could be wrong here, that most of our differences lie in the fact that you believe it’s important to create awareness that racism still exists. If that’s truly the goal, whether it be the end or the means to an end, then yes, I think it’s important to stop racism at every turn. However, if the goal is to, in fact, stop racism, then I don’t think it’s very effective to make a huge ordeal out of every bit of racism for the reasons stated above. My only point is that those who don’t believe racism still exists aren’t worth convincing because they aren’t going to suddenly change their mind. People like that make up new excuses.
You do know at worst they represented .000294% of the campus population right? It’s not like we had roaming bands of KKK members cruising campus looking for victims.
That is a beautiful strawman you built with the neutral comment at the end. No one here has said anything about neutral, it is overwhelmingly anti racist. I can’t think of a single pro racist persons comment, including the students that were filmed..
Kudos nicjams. I’m very proud of our leadership and the actions they have taken during this troubling and painful time. I have faith that the team, the school, and the state will emerge stronger and more enlightened because of it. Perhaps we can lead where others dare not go.
After reflecting on the letter, I’m proud of the team for using their visibility to raise awareness & improve the culture on the campus. HOWEVER, the team making this type of public statement & DEMANDING harsh consequences for another group puts the team in a VERY precarious position – especially since the team has a very recent history of reckless & damaging behavior with “questionable” consequences/accountability for themselves. Puts them in the position to look quite hypocritical. Hope no one gets busted with pot or for a DUI, and certainly hope there are no more Mixon incidents. “Accountability” & “Justice” can cut deeply both ways.
I’m with you. I am proud of the football teams decision to be part of the student body first and part of the athletic department second….even if it is just for this week.
If you are going to let 2-8 idiots words not directed to your face screw up your life , you are not strong enough to be a collegiate athlete…. or anything else frankly.
Fare point for some. But racism against Blacks has a 400 year history and for the majority of the players they are taking a stand against that dubious history.
I see your 400 years and raise you a genocide. As a Native American (Choctaw/Chickasaw) I have been called names to my face. I didn’t even miss a practice much less need a week of recovery or protest. The best revenge is to be wildly successful.
So Demarco got paid!! Yay!! Chip Kelly is a head scratcher. Anyone know what his endgame is looking like?
I think what he was trying to do was shore up the secondary and LB corps without losing much on offense. Looks like he is accomplishing that, if SB and Murray for that matter can stay healthy.
I know squat about the Eagles O Line. Sam has already been beat up enough.
They can’t be any worse than STL Oline.
Gave up 32 sacks and 64 hits on the QB
http://www.nfl.com/stats/categorystats?archive=false&conference=null&role=TM&offensiveStatisticCategory=OFFENSIVE_LINE&defensiveStatisticCategory=null&season=2014&seasonType=REG&tabSeq=2&qualified=false&Submit=Go
Wow, the Rams O Line gave up 47 and 93!! Heck no wonder he’s so beat up.
Maybe the best LT in the NFL (Peters). Maybe the best C in football (Kelce) and one of the best young RT in football (Lane Johnson)
Not the best LT, but that line is far better than the Rams’ lines, that’s for sure.
At this point I’m not convinced that Chip Kelly even knows what his end game looks like! Love Sam Bradford but with his injuries over the last few seasons Foles seemed just as good or better. And giving Murray 8.4 mil, Matthews 3.8 mil both of which have horrible injury problems. They still have Sproles at 3.5 mil as well.The Eagles OL isn’t great and the players that are decent are pretty long in the tooth (Peters 34) In the last 2 years they have lost Maclin, McCoy, & Jackson. Kelly reminds me of Belichick in that he is pretty impressed with himself. If he can have as much success as Belichick then more power to him but this vision looks faulty to me right now!
I disagree. They got Alonso, Murray, and Matthews with money left over by trading McCoy. Murray and Matthews will be fine splitting the ball, less likely to get injured that way, in fact. Maclin also had injury problems (two acl tears), and Chiefs out-paid Eagles for him. Lots of good WRs in the draft and probably more to come in FA. Also, Bradford is much better than Foles. Eagles O-Line is good, no worries there if they stay healthy which goes for any team. Chris Polk is also still with the team and they could trade him for good value. Eagles need a Safety and a WR more than anything, and the latter shouldn’t be too hard to fill. I would say the Eagles are setting themselves up nicely.
I can agree if everybody stays healthy they could be fine. Just saying that this group has had a terrible time doing so with Murray having his first full season last year being the healthiest of the group. Bradford is no doubt the better talent at QB was just saying that Foles has been good more recently due to all the injuries. And I will have to disagree about the line of the Eagles being no worries they gave up 32 sacks and 64 QB hits, their best player is at LT and is 34 and they have openly tried to trade both their starting guards this year. I think with signing Murray the money they spent on Mathews could have been spent elsewhere because os Polk that you mentioned and Sproles. But who knows it may all come together and work out great!
So is there ANY chance that AD ends up in Dallas??
Definitely seems like it now. Reported the Bucs were going to make a push for him as well.
As long as Jerruh is calling the shots, anything and everything is possible in Dallas.
The facts on Sam Bradford: Had a different OC almost every year he was there (learning a new offense every year is soooo easy), two ACL injuries (which let’s be honest isn’t a sign of being injury prone). His O-line was atrocious for the majority of his time in STL, his WR options were laughable, and his RBs between Stephen Jax and Zach Stacy were non-existent.
People who bag on him are kind of trash. But then again (and with all due respect) the NFL kind of has trashy fans. I’ve been to NFL games and College football games. Night and Day.
Hope Sammy kicks ass because Philly fans can be unmerciful.
If he stays healthy and if they can get him a few more targets to throw to then I expect him to start to perform better. He’s only 27 right? So he’s got time to play some really good football if Philly can keep him upright.
Big if. Not so sure their OL is better than what he left behind in STL.
Philly had the best run blocking O Line in the NFL according to PFF last year. They’re just behind Dallas for the best line, plus they have Lane Johnson.
Didn’t know that. Thanx!
I think it’s good that you see OU as a tight family not sure how this is a bad thing
update added, yet another LB offer.
Was talking w/ K earlier and while I’m absolutely thrilled Kish is taking a seemingly 180 degree different approach to things this year re: offers as compared to last. It is starting to feel like he’s somewhat just crop dusting with respect to throwing out a ton of offers.
And, yes, I’m fully expecting to get the typical “you’ll bitch about anything” comments since this is what many of us were asking for re: Kish all last year.
We’ll see what it produces. But with his two latest offers he’s doing “America the Beautiful” – sea to shining sea.
While I do believe there is merit to your point regarding Kish (I prefer to say he’s throwing s#$@ against the wall hoping some will stick), I think last year’s criticism was proven to be unfounded because the Headman said the LB numbers were met.
I felt this post coming on with the number of offers being made. But in his defense, he is offering the very best LB’s in the country. Jones’ offer sheet is a Who’s Who of CFB. I see no problem in offering the very best out there and see who is interested, except for the criticism he is bound to get from guys like you for offering 30 guys and only signing 3-4.
1. crop dust—love it
2. nice preemptive comment about the negativity
3. what do you want him to do? no offers, no good….too many offers, no good….if he offers just a few and gets no takers, no good…if we get 2 guys and it was stated that all they wanted was 2, we don’t believe him, no good
4. write him a letter or give him a call and tell him what you want
5. write bob a letter and tell him to hire a puppet
Your usual humor is astounding.
Poor Kish. Can’t catch a break.
I crop dusted the entire produce section at Walmart once. It was glorious.
Ewwwwwww Dustin!!! Silent but deadly??? That’s just mean!!:_)
In my defense, they deserved it.
man, what did lettuce ever do to you?
It was all the potatoes that really got to me
They were told to never go full potato.
You may have been the only one to get that joke. lol
I get all the jokes. You should see my dating history.
The people of Walmart always deserve it.
Well I think until kish proves he can land some big time players then it’s fair to question his tactics. I hope he lands some serious talent this year and there’s no excuse if he doesn’t bring in 4 guys. I don’t want to hear them say next year their goal was to have 9 on scholarship.
Finally get a chance to log onto TFB, hit play on the Franklin video, get offended with the vile phrase that implies incest.
I weep for our humanity.
EasTex, how are you? What are your thoughts on the game tonight?
Hey, bud.
I closed the TFB window after hearing that disgusting phrase from a 17-18 year old recruit’s highlight video.
This on top of learning that a Rabbi that lives about 5 minutes from me had his car sprayed with a swastika last night.
Don’t know about the game, just want them to win and make it to the championship game and let the chips fall where they may.
It’s an incredible, insensitive world we live in. But there are people like you to guide us back to our center. Sorry to hear that about the Rabbi. This has been a heavy week. The air is too thick to breathe. Just makes me want to scream because some people don’t value others.
Our boys got the win. Kruger got his first post season victory. The good guys have advanced, fully capable of winning the championship.
Get some sleep if you’re still up. Tomorrow is Friday. I hope the fog lifts soon.
I can’t relate to the kind of hatred and ignorance we continue to see.
I have always gotten along with folks of all colors and creeds and always made friends because I treat everyone with respect and kindness, unless they demonstrate through their behavior it isn’t reciprocated.
I was talking with a gentleman I’ve done some business with, he is from Jamaica and is a well regarded architect with a big firm and he was relating some of the difficulties he has faced.
I told him that in order for someone to show others respect they first must have self-respect. I have little to nothing to do with those who have no self-respect.
Had a very busy and profitable week, and Friday looks like an easy day. Think I will sleep late, have a big breakfast and watch the Price Is Right.
You are genuine. It comes through in the tone of your posts. You are deliberate and direct. I appreciate that. You have my respect, sir.
It seems most people want to be a part of everything but won’t commit anything. I feel badly for your Rabbi friend. I’ve experienced a lot of hatred growing up. Yet, I did not let it find its way in me. A person who does something like that to another person makes me shake my head.
Enjoy your breakfast. Make Friday the best day that you can.
Yeah. Cultural decay on display. Hit the mute. Kid is unreal, though. Watching him at WR then LB then was that a fake punt or wildcat? Has a usc offer so odds are he stays on the coast.
K did you flashy thing me? lol….come on football season or a reasonable facsimile thereof…
The Debiase kid with offers from Indiana and VT, on the surface not impressive. But if Kevin Wilson is looking to take him for his version of the spread and VT always seems to have dynamic QBs. Could be a good one.
Re: VaTech, as I recall, Michael Vick was fairly dynamic. But in thinking about the successful QBs that ran the Air Raid at Texas Tech, they weren’t necessarily dynamic but they could read coverage quickly and locate the open receiver. Which is why my money is on Baker.
I like the film on Franklin. Seems long and can run. Doesn’t hesitate. Obviously a good athlete. I don’t mind all the offers, get as many out there as possible.
Just watched the press conference for the Eagles signing Demarco Murray.
VERY articulate. Talked about his great friendship with Sammy and said he loved playing with him in Norman, and will take it to Philly. Mentioned OU numerous times and said they run a “similar” offense (OU and Philly). Was asked why he signed with Philly, when 2 teams offered him more money? He said that; 1) Sam Bradford and 2) He thinks the Eagles have a better chance of winning the superbowl, as compared to the other teams that offered him.
Do you happen to know the 2nd team? Im sure the 1st was the Raiders but not sure about the 2nd team
Philly sports station is reporting that Jacksonville also outbid the Eagles.
ahh didn’t know that. Thanks. I also realized that Lane Johnson is also a starter up front. Going to be VERY fun rooting for the Eagles this year if they keep bradford
Gonna be fun watching the Sooner’s East this year.
“Rumors” here are mentioning that Chip Kelly is “intrigued” by DGB. After losing Maclin to KC, there is a definite opening.
That would definitely be sweet. Read a guy that said he should trade for Broyles next 😛
Which must be why Colvin was tweeting at him regarding playing together. Makes more sense now.
Now when Dallas play Philly no love lost on this. I hope the Cowboys destroy the Eagles next year.
Why?
They play in the NFC East and that is our rival. I don’t care who plays on the Eagles, Redskins or Giants. I always want to be those team the worst.
ahhh I forget there are people that actually like certain NFL teams xD. I don’t really care for any team but I follow a bunch of the ones that have any OU players on it. So im really glad. Also I could really see AP going to the cowboys
If Jerry Jones couldn’t afford DeMarco Murry because of salary cap issues, he can’t afford Adrian Peterson either.
Well I don’t think he had or has any intention of paying AD the money he’s scheduled to make. Minnesota won’t find any takers for that salary so they’re in a tough position. I think AD will stay a Viking this year and depending on how well he plays, he may be back the next year too.
I don’t think Jacksonville is willing to take on AD’s salary but they’re the one team it would make sense for them to make a trade. They have the cap space and they just need to be competitive and sell tickets.
If any former OU players play against Dallas and it affects the outcome of the game then I hope we beat them. As long as the don’t play Dallas I’m good with them.
Boo!
Murray just better work on his blocking because Sam will need some help. Not sure how good philly’s line is though.
Philly actually has a really good O-Line. Not as good as Cowboys, but good enough.
Does the Debiase kid have any relation to the Million Dollar Man? If he commits, could we call him the Million Dollar Kid?
callin him that anyway now.
I am soooooo ready for this frat sh#t to be over. That’s all.
Can’t wait until the Pride takes the field again.
https://youtu.be/bjCkm6GP-dI
Wonder what the players would have done if it was fall
Fall break?
If it happened during the season..obviously happening in the spring won’t affect the team (unless they extend it out a few weeks) but during or leading up to the season would have a huge impact on the team…hopefully they get their minds eased sooner rather than later
Happy 60th Birthday, small block Chevy V8.
http://www.hagerty.com/articles-videos/Articles/2015/02/06/American-Engine