Published October 31, 2006 11:59 pm -
Stoops hitting century mark
John Shinn's Oklahoma Football Notepad
The Norman Transcript
When Oklahoma faces Texas A&M at 7 p.m. Saturday, it will be Bob Stoops 100th game at OU.
During that eight-season span, the Sooners have gone 81-18, won a national title in 2000 and claimed the 2000, 2002 and 2004 Big 12 championships.
Some would think it would be a time to reflect. Stoops said he hasn’t.
“I didn’t even know about it until I was told a couple days ago,” he said.
However, athletic director Joe Castiglione is well aware of what Stoops has done and very appreciative, too.
“Put it up against anyone that’s coached, it would be highly impressive. I don’t think you could make a case for anything but,” he said. “It’s a remarkable start to a wonderful career as head coach.”
High praise
Cornerback Lendy Holmes played his best game to date last week at Missouri. The sophomore had three pass breakups, an interception and a fumble recovery in the 26-10 victory.
Stoops even compared the sophomore to one of the best defensive backs OU’s ever produced.
“He’s a naturally confident guy,” Stoops said. “He’s a lot like a Derrick Strait, where he’s just a gamer. He’s like that.”
Holmes was caught a bit off guard by the comment. When asked about it he said, “Are you kidding?”
But Holmes’ play as been a big reason why OU has the best statistical defense in the Big 12. He and cornerback Marcus Walker have solidified the secondary over the last four games.
“I feel way more comfortable now than where I was at the first game of the season,” he said. “I’m recognizing things.”