First Day In Pads Spirited

March 12, 2003

Norman, Okla. - Wednesday brought the first day in full pads for Oklahoma's football team and the heightened excitement pleased head coach Bob Stoops.

"You could tell it was the first day in pads," Stoops said. "It was spirited, it was aggressive, physical. It was fun. I love it. The guys really competed well."

OU will hold its first major scrimmage of the spring Thursday at 4:30 p.m., at Oklahoma Memorial Stadium. Stoops said he hopes for a large turnout.

"Our younger guys need the experience of playing in front of crowds," he said. "I know a number of our fans are interested to see some of the younger players, too, so this is a good opportunity.

"I want to see us compete and play physical. Seeing guys playing assignment smart and giving good effort are some of the things you look for."

All entrance to the stadium and seating will be on the west side due to ongoing construction at the facility. OU Parking Services recommends that fans park in the Duck Pond Lot, east of the stadium. Fans will then need to walk to the west side for entrance.

Here are other thoughts from Stoops following the Wednesday practice ...

Overall impressions of the workout ... "The secondary is really strong. They're playing extremely well, but I like what we're doing (on offense). Some of those young receivers are awfully impressive. They're doing a lot of great things. The quarterbacks are doing well. It's tough for the offense in the spring because the defense sees them everyday. Still, our offensive line is awfully impressive. With the two guards (Kelvin Chaisson and Davin Joseph and the maturity of everybody else, we haven't had a line like this. (The defensive line) is playing well. I see Lynn McGruder making a lot of plays."

On the quarterbacks ... "They look solid. I can't say that I sit here and just watch them. I watch offense and defense and the overhaul picture. To be honest with you, I do a lot of that the next day when we watch tape."

University of Oklahoma Athletics

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