Jammal Brown Journal No. 18

Oklahoma All-American offensive tackle Jammal Brown takes Sooner fans behind the scenes as OU prepares for the summer. Brown gives us his perspective from the offensive side of the team.

This is the 18th installment of his online journal. Submit your own questions to Jammal by clicking the link at the end of this journal entry.

Jammal Brown
Journal Entry No. 18 (May 3, 2004)
We just finished up spring practice a couple weeks ago. Overall, I think spring practice and the spring game went great. We came out with no injuries and everyone played well. I thought Paul Thompson and Tashard Choice played especially well. The offensive line did well. A lot of defensive guys were held out but they still had some good guys in there playing.

Right now, we're just resting our bodies before we jump into the summer. We're still lifting four times a week. Nothing too heavy but something to maintain us until summertime so we can get it rolling for next season.

Jammal, I play quarterback, receiver and corner for Lawton Mac. What is the best advice you can give me about becoming a leader on my football team?
- Kevin from Lawton, Okla.

To become a leader, I think the best thing you can do is lead by example. After a while, the other guys will see how successful you are and they'll want to be more like you. They'll want to pick up their game and they'll start doing what they need to do. Go out there and go hard every day. It's not necessary for you to talk them all up -- just play and they'll follow you.

I know from watching Brandon Jones that he is very gifted and has lots of potential. Do you think he will step it up this year and live up to his potential?
- Jerry from Dallas, Texas

I know Brandon well, obviously. He's my roommate and we've been staying together for about three years. Yes, he's very gifted and talented. Yes, I believe he will step it up. It's his senior year and there's a lot out there for him to achieve. He's going to go after it. It will be a new year. He'll have another spring and summer of lifting and getting faster. This is his last go around so I believe he'll make it something special. Look for big things coming from Brandon.

What is your opinion on athletes of any sport leaving school early for the pros?
- Victor from Ft. Cobb, Okla.

Basically, I think it depends on the individual situation. Some guys feel like they've achieved everything athletically they can do in college and they're ready for the next challenge. Look at Tommie (Harris). I think it turned out great for him. He's going to have a big future in the NFL.

Jammal, who will take the place of Derrick Strait? Is Chijioke a contender for that spot?
- Ryan from Tulsa, Okla.

Yes, Chijioke is a contender for that spot. But don't forget Eric Bassey. He's really stepped up and played well. Chijioke still has a lot to learn. I'm just looking forward to Bassey stepping up. He's been here for three years and he has an edge by knowing the system. Once Chijioke gets it all learned, he's going to be a great player too.

Jammal, can you tell us a little more about Jacob Gutierrez? He reminds me a little bit of Quentin Griffin.
- Randy from San Antonio, Texas

Jacob is a strong running back. If you looked at him in a uniform and took the numbers off -- you might mistake him for Q. He's a young guy that has a lot to learn but before it's all over with -- I think you might see some Quentin-type flashes. Plus, he's a good guy and he works hard. That's probably where he reminds me the most of Quentin. He'll be a good player.

I have seen a lot of progress from you since your freshman season. What do you believe is the most important thing you've learned since you've been at OU?
- Timothy from Baton Rouge, La.

Each year grow. Each year, become more a student of the game. Learn how to play -- not just physically but with your mind. Football is a mental game. I think I've become more mature and learned how to take care of things, sometimes just simple things like getting to bed early to take care of your body. I'm looking forward to next season and for us to achieve our goals.

- #55 Jammal Brown

Ask Jammal a Question | Sooner Online Journals

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