Stories for August 2007

Kansas takes on extra film study

New-look Chippewas tough to figure out

Preparing for Central Michigan’s football team isn’t like driving in the dark with no lights on. But it’s close. Kansas University has put in some overtime in preparing for Saturday’s 6 p.m. game with the Chippewas.

Mayer: Mayer: Saturday crucial for KU

Oddsmakers say Kansas is due to open its 2007 football season with a one-touchdown victory over Central Michigan while Kansas State is likely to lose by two touchdowns at Auburn. Both need to do at least that well to set the compass for the kinds of seasons they think they’re capable of.

NCAA grants waiver for OU

The NCAA said Thursday it had granted a waiver for the University of Oklahoma to set up a fund to assist with funeral expenses for the family of a slain football recruit.

Pless touched by ‘special’ honor

He stopped playing football in 1999, but the honors keep piling up foe Willie Pless. In 2000, Pless was inducted into the Kansas University Athletics Hall of Fame. In 2005, he entered the Canadian Football Hall of Fame. On Saturday, his name will go up on the Ring of Honor at Memorial Stadium during halftime of KU’s season opener against Central Michigan.

Construction hampers tailgating, view

Free shuttle to take fans to Memorial Stadium

The best parking spots around Memorial Stadium already have been taken - and kickoff for Kansas University’s football season opener is still a day away. Those spots are claimed, of course, by construction on the new Anderson Family Football Complex and accompanying practice fields. But in order to accommodate the approximately 40,000 fans expected to attend Saturday’s game against Central Michigan, several additional lots have been designated for tailgating.

Big 12 interviews four

At least four candidates to replace Kevin Weiberg as Big 12 commissioner have interviewed this week with the executive committee charged with cutting the list down to two finalists, according to several sources close to the situation.

6Sports video: KU hoping to contain Central Michigan on Saturday

In 2006, a proficient-passing QB on the opposite sideline meant big problems for the Kansas football team. The Jayhawks finished 119th among Division I schools in pass defense last year and hope to turn things around this season, starting with Central Michigan this Saturday.

6News video: Construction on Campanile Hill may impact your game day

If Saturdays are made for football, than Saturdays on the hill are made for tailgating. But this year, some of the most popular spaces for cooking out have been squeezed down.

KU guard soaks up big-city summer

Russell Robinson, who often wears a New York Yankee hat proudly on Kansas University’s campus, was able to cheer for his favorite team back home in the Bronx earlier this month. Robinson’s two-week vacation - which followed the second session of summer school - was highlighted by a trip to “The House That Ruth Built” for a Friday, Aug. 3, game between the Yankees and Kansas City Royals.

Woodling: Woodling: KU trip to Auburn a fast one

Chances are Saturday’s Kansas-Central Michigan football game will last about three hours, give or take five minutes. Of course, if the contest were being televised, it would consume even more time because of extra commercial breaks. Overtime would add to the length, too. Nothing can be done, however, to take a dramatic chunk out of a college game. A 21â2-hour game is an impossibility.

Local businesses prepare for ‘million-dollar weekend’

KU officials hope for strong attendance at season opener

Lanny Riedel is looking forward to Saturday’s kickoff of the Kansas University football season. And not just to see Lawrence’s own Brandon McAnderson burst through holes, Aqib Talib pick off a pass or two and Todd Reesing drive the Jayhawks to victory against the Chippewas of Central Michigan.

Ryan Wood’s KU football notebook

Former Kansas University football great Willie Pless is back in Lawrence today and will speak at the year’s first KU Quarterback Club meeting tonight.

A complete player

TE's offense catches up with blocking

As sure as Kansas University tight end Derek Fine’s hands are, that’s not what’s defined him as a college football player. Not yet anyway. “He’s a real good blocker,” KU offensive coordinator Ed Warinner said. “Very good. I would say that was his strength.” “Was” is the key word.

OU tailback Patrick may play

Tailback Allen Patrick went through about half of Oklahoma’s practice on Wednesday and may be able to start Saturday when the eighth-ranked Sooners play North Texas.

6Sports video: Aqib Talib to see action on offense?

Already the Jayhawks’ best defender, star CB Aqib Talib may also see some action on offense as a WR this season.

6Sports video: KU Freshman RB hoping to earn playing time

Jayhawk freshman running back Carmon Boyd-Anderson has been impressing coaches during practices and hopes to earn some playing time this season.

Twelve big questions

The 2007 Big 12 season sure was amazing, wasn’t it? With a new commissioner watching, those kids we didn’t expect to come through sure surprised us - almost as much as the clubs that were supposed to be great and didn’t. Wow, hard to believe. There were some great games every weekend, from the old rivalries to some new ones that might be brewing after what we just saw.

Self tours College Basketball Experience

Kansas University basketball coach Bill Self, Minnesota’s Tubby Smith, Michigan State’s Tom Izzo and other members of the National Association of Basketball Coaches Board of Directors wore white hard hats Tuesday as they toured the soon-to-be completed College Basketball Experience in downtown Kansas City, Mo. “I was blown away at how nice it will be. It’s really nice,” Self said Tuesday night.

Freshman forces way onto field

Carmon Boyd-Anderson’s first glance at a packed Memorial Stadium will have his emotions in a sword fight. Excited? Nervous? Relaxed? Indifferent? Beats him. “I really don’t know what to expect,” Kansas University’s freshman running back said.

Keegan: Keegan: Reesing ready to lead

While getting bombarded Tuesday with questions about his first college start, Todd Reesing turned back the clock seven years to discuss his favorite season opener. “Seventh grade,” said Reesing, Kansas University’s sophomore quarterback from Lake Travis, Texas. “It was my first year to play tackle football. First game. It was our big rival. I scored a touchdown as the clock expired to win. We won 13-12. That’s a nail-biter. Lake Travis Middle School against Dripping Springs Middle School.”

Big 12 South team recaps

Odds and Ends: Big 12 South

Odds and Ends: Big 12 North

Sampson released by Chiefs

Former KU linebacker Nick Reid survives first cut

Kevin Sampson, a former spot starter at offensive tackle whose career has been hampered by injuries, is one of nine players who have been released by the Kansas City Chiefs ahead of the NFL’s first mandatory cutdown deadline. Teams were required to trim their rosters to 75 by 3 p.m. Tuesday.

Big 12 North team recaps

Rideau wavied by Bears

Wide receiver Brandon Rideau and the Chicago Bears were expected to reach an injury settlement this week.

6Sports video: Reesing has had memorable moments

In his college football career, Todd Reesing has led the Kansas football team to a come from behind victory. He also has a memorable 63-yard scramble. And don’t forget his three passing TDs and two rushing scores in three games played as a freshman.

Going once, going twice :

Auctioned Self raises BSA funds

Bill Self, who said he had not broken 80 on the golf course all summer, appeared a bit embarrassed as participants in his Boy Scout Classic bid for his services Monday at Lawrence Country Club. “If they bid more than 10 or 15 bucks for me to play with them, they definitely are not getting their money’s worth,” Self, Kansas University’s basketball coach, said with a grin. Actually, the top offer of $2,000 - presented in support of the Boy Scouts of America - turned out to be a bargain.

KU standout Woodard honored at U.S. Open

Former Kansas University basketball standout Lynette Woodard was honored at the opening ceremony Monday night at the U.S. Open.

Ryan Wood’s KU football notebook

¢ Running back reps¢ CMU’s top target back¢ New guy

Kansas duo all-tourney

Kansas University’s Flavia Lino and Natalie Uhart were named all-tournament selections at last weekend’s Oregon Invitational volleyball tournament. The Jayhawks went 2-1 at the tourney.

Ex-Jayhawk Hilgenkamp hired at San Jose State

Former Kansas University women’s basketball player K.C. Hilgenkamp has been named coordinator of basketball operations at San Jose State.

KU defensive tackle Haselhorst on mend

Kansas University defensive tackle Todd Haselhorst is almost healed from a summer injury that has limited him so far in preseason camp.

Keegan: Keegan: For KU, 8 wins in reach

It seems as if every sports gossip in town agrees on the magic number for Kansas University football coach Mark Mangino to maintain job security. Hint: Mangino is behind the 8-ball in this, his sixth season in charge of a program he inherited from Terry Allen. The football training facility under construction was a dream of Mangino’s from the moment he took over the program. It comes with a price in terms of expectations

6Sports video: KU volleyball finishes second in Oregon

A second place finish at the Oregon Invitational over the weekend earned two Kansas volleyball players some all-tournament accolades.

6Sports video: Self helps raise money for boy scouts

106 golfers turned out at Lawrence Country Club today to help Kansas head coach Bill Self raise money for the Boy Scouts of Douglas County. But only a lucky four got to play 18 holes with KU’s head man.

KU football depth chart released

The last three weeks of Kansas University football workouts finally were put on paper Sunday, when a depth chart was released to the media. It’s the first two-deep made public since after the spring game in April, and the changes are noticeable - even when compared to recent practices open to the public.

Woodling: Musings as fall season sets in

Rants and raves while wondering if the stretch of I-29 between Kansas City and Omaha will be dubbed the Shane Costa Highway. :

6Sports video: KU releases depth chart

Today, head coach Mark Mangino release his final depth chart before the Kansas Football team opens the 2007 season, on the two deep, only a few surprises.

Chalmers wraps up camp-filled summer

Mario Chalmers spent his summer vacation doing what he likes to do most: Play basketball, of course. “It (summer) was very busy, but it was good. Any chance I get to go out and improve my skills and represent Kansas, I’ll do it,” said Chalmers, KU’s 6-foot-1 junior combo guard from Anchorage, Alaska.

Keegan: Keegan: Voters betray Hadl

A dreaded affliction for which no known cure exists periodically spreads throughout sports writer colonies. The affliction, known as expert-itis, suppresses the portion of the brain responsible for generating common sense and inflates the part that controls the ego.

Away they go

Jayhawks debate KU's fastest

It’s just one-tenth of a second. But Aqib Talib will tell you that it’s quite noticeable. “You see a 4.3 (40-yard dash) live, it looks crazy, man,” Kansas University’s heralded junior cornerback said. “You can see a 4.4, but if you see a cat run a 4.3, it’s only that one little tenth, but it’s a big difference. You can tell the difference. It just looks so much faster.”

KU’s Rush running

Kansas University junior Brandon Rush continues to make steady progress from June 1 surgery on the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee. Rush, a 6-foot-6 guard from Kansas City, Mo., was cleared to begin jogging Wednesday, two days earlier than originally planned. “He’s running in the pool and running straight lines,” KU coach Bill Self said Friday. “He’s starting out very slow, but doing very, very well.

Keegan: Keegan: Kansas rookie ‘talented’

Listen closely and you might hear freshman running back Carmon Boyd-Anderson’s footsteps growing louder by the day. Kansas University football coach Mark Mangino already has indicated that Boyd-Anderson likely will play as a freshman, just as current first-team back Jake Sharp did a year ago. That plan indicates just how loud a talent the 6-foot-1, 200-pound back from Jacksonville, Texas is.

A dogged champion

KU's Wissel still cleans up after football

A sound argument easily could be made Colby Wissel, peering over his shoulder seven times during the stretch run, authored the single most exciting moment of any Kansas University athlete during the 2006-07 school year when he kicked his way to the Big 12 men’s cross country title on a cold, damp morning at Rim Rock Farm last fall.

Irish QB confirms surgery

Notre Dame quarterback Jimmy Clausen, talking with reporters for the first time since arriving on campus last January, confirmed Friday he underwent arthroscopic surgery this past spring to remove a bone spur from his throwing arm. Clausen, rated by many as the top high school recruit last winter, described the procedure as a minor setback. “I’ve been rehabbing ever since,” he said. “I’ve been throwing and practicing every day during camp.”

OSU donor pleased with progress

Deep-pocketed Pickens sees winning as next step for Cowboys

An unemployed Boone Pickens was in need of a job when he cut a deal with former Oklahoma State basketball coach Henry Iba. While Iba set Pickens up with two interviews for high-school basketball coaching jobs, he wanted something in return. “If I get a job for you, you’ve got to send me a player,” Pickens recalls Iba telling him.

6Sports video: KU volleyball headed to Oregon

The 2007 fall sports season officially begins for the University of Kansas this evening. The first team to take the court: the Kansas Volleyball squad.

6Sports video: McClinton named to Lombardi watch list

Kansas defensive lineman James McClinton has been named to the 38th annual Rotary Lombardi Award watch list.

6Sports video: McAnderson looking for more playing time

For years, he terrorized members of the Sunflower League. More often than not, he ran over them on the way to the endzone on Friday nights. After shouldering the load at Lawrence High for three years, Brandon McAnderson left for bigger and better things at KU.

Ex-Jayhawk Metcalf had ‘crazy’ day

Travis Metcalf’s Wednesday started near the French Quarter and ended in what felt like the fourth quarter. Metcalf, a Kansas University product, went from New Orleans, where he was playing for Triple-A Oklahoma, to Baltimore, where he was a part of a record-breaking doubleheader night for the Rangers, and back to Arlington in 24 hours. It was a full day of plane flights, two full games (he played 12 innings), tying a club record for RBIs in a doubleheader and shaking his head in disbelief - “Did we really just score 30 runs?”

Hadl left off ballot for Hall

Ex-LHS, KU, Charger great 'disappointed'

The Pro Football Hall of Fame seniors selection committee revealed its two candidates to be included on the ballot for the next class, and former Lawrence High, Kansas University and San Diego Chargers great John Hadl did not make the cut. “I’m obviously very disappointed, and the reason is all my friends took a lot of their time to try to make it happen, obviously it didn’t happen,” Hadl said.

Illinois prep considering KU

Verdell Jones, a 6-foot-4, 165-pound senior from Central High in Champaign, Ill., who played well at the Jayhawk Invitational in April, is still in the process of narrowing his long list of prospective colleges. Jones on Thursday told Rivals.com that Kansas, Kentucky, Georgia Tech, Virginia, Oregon, Gonzaga, Tennessee and Marquette have extended invitations for official campus visits.

Coach has KU corners fired up

Kansas University’s cornerbacks insist they’ll perform better than last season. Ask them why, and you’ll hear two universal answers. Experience. And Je’Ney Jackson. “Coach Jackson’s the real deal, man,” junior Aqib Talib said. “He got my press technique up to par. He’s been there before. He knows what it takes to get up to the next level.”

Kansas’ Talib on Camp watch list

Kansas University football standout Aqib Talib was named to the Walter Camp Football Foundation Player of the Year Award watch list this week.

Mayer: Mayer: Riggins colorful character

When John Riggins is involved, there almost always is “more to the story.” Two noteworthy adventures involved Sandra Day O’Connor, the brilliant retired U.S. Supreme Court justice with a sense of humor to cope with the inimitable Riggo. John, former Kansas University, New York Jet and Washington Redskin running back, will join the KU Ring of Honor on Oct. 13, something he fully deserves as one of only three Jayhawks in the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

6Sports video: Volleyball season set to go

One team that won’t have to wait until next week to open the new season is the KU volleyball team. Ray Bechard and the ladies serve up 2007 tomorrow.

6Sports video: Talib claims preseason award

The pre-season accolades just keep coming for Kansas junior Aqib Talib. Today, the Jayhawk cornerback was named to the Walter Camp Foundation Player of the Year Award watch list.

6Sports video: Quigley ready to play

A red-shirt year in 2005 followed by a season ending injury during summer workouts in 2006; so far, that’s been Angus Quigley’s legacy at the University of Kansas.

Talib named to Walter Camp watch list

Kansas junior cornerback Aqib Talib’s award-laden preseason added another mention Thursday, as he was one of 35 players named to the watch list for the Walter Camp award, given annually by the Walter Camp Football Foundation to its Player of the Year.

KU women face tough schedule

No one can accuse Bonnie Henrickson of watering down the Kansas University women’s basketball schedule. Ten teams that participated in last year’s NCAA Tournament and four more that earned berths in the Women’s NIT are on the Jayhawks’ 2007-08 slate. “Facing 14 teams that competed in the postseason will be a huge task for this basketball team,” said Henrickson, now in her fourth season at KU.

Changes apparent at fan appreciation day

There wasn’t much to take away from the 30 minutes of Kansas University football practice open to the public Wednesday, as part of fan appreciation day at Memorial Stadium. Except that there’s still a lot of changing going on behind the scenes. So much, in fact, that a first and second team on both sides were hard to figure out at the onset. Kansas still has more than a week before the Sept. 1 season opener against Central Michigan, and the depth chart could be tweaked a couple of times until then.

Gary Bedore’s KU basketball notebook

Forward sets visit: Pencil in another blue-chip basketball player for a visit to Kansas University’s campus. Quintrell Thomas, a 6-foot-8, 225-pound power forward from St. Patrick High in Elizabeth, N.J., tells Rivals.com he will visit Lawrence on Sept. 28-29.

6Sports video: New offense to debut in opener

Mark Mangino’s offense will look much different in 2007. When the Jayhawks open the new season in nine days against Central Michigan, they’ll debut a new starting runningback, quarterback and offensive coordinator.

6Sports video: KU Football Fan Appreciation Day

In nine days, the Kansas Football team will take Kivisto Field at Memorial Stadium for the 2007 season opener. Tonight though, that field belonged to the fans.

6Sports video: KU XC ready for new season

The Kansas Cross Country team opens at home on September 1. For the men, Rim Rock Farm holds good memories. For the women, not so much.

KSU adds ex-player’s son

The son of a former NBA player joined Kansas State’s already-talented recruiting class Tuesday, when the Wildcats signed forward Ron Anderson Jr. to a financial aid agreement.

Arthur returns after fracture

Sophomore's leg '100 percent healed'

A confident Darrell Arthur returned to the basketball court Monday after six weeks of rest and rehab designed to heal a stress fracture in his left leg. “I wasn’t nervous at all,” said Arthur, Kansas University’s 6-foot-9, 225-pound sophomore forward, trusting results of X-rays that deemed his leg “100 percent healed.”

Volleyball hoping to buck predictions

Kansas University volleyball coach Ray Bechard doesn’t put much stock in the Big 12 Conference preseason coaches poll. Bechard anticipates his team will do better than predicted - they were picked 11th - even though four of the conference teams are ranked nationally in the preseason poll. Nebraska is No. 1, Texas fourth, Missouri 20th and Oklahoma 22nd, with Colorado, Iowa State and Texas A&M also receiving votes.

KU locked and loaded

Schedule presents early challenges

The Kansas University soccer squad is going to have its No. 26 ranking in the Soccer Buzz top-30 preseason poll put to the test early and often this season. Three of the Jayhawks’ opponents on their nonconference schedule are ranked in the Soccer Buzz Preseason Poll - No. 4 Portland, No. 17 Illinois and No. 23 BYU.

Keegan: Keegan: Wheeler can turn it on

Adrenaline, that magic potion manufactured by the human body, affects different athletes in different ways. It makes some panic, even choke. It enhances the performance of others, making them see more clearly, react more swiftly, explode more forcefully.

All-Americans return

Hopes high for Hefferon, Wissel

When Kansas University senior runners Paul Hefferon and Colby Wissel show up at cross country meets this fall, they’ll have every right to feel like rock stars. Well, as much of a rock star as a distance runner can feel like.

Sooners select Bradford as starter

Oklahoma quarterback Sam Bradford was chosen to start in the Sooners’ opener against North Texas, winning a three-way competition.

Ring of fame awaits ‘Riggo’

Former back to be 15th inductee

Former Kansas University running back John Riggins will have his name added to the KU football Ring of Honor at Memorial Stadium this fall. Riggins will be the 15th player added to the Ring of Honor when Kansas plays Baylor on Oct. 13 at Memorial Stadium.

6Sports video: Riggins to be added to Jayhawk Ring of Honor

In 1968, running back John Riggins helped lead the Kansas Jayhawks to the Orange Bowl. Forty years later, the former NFL great is being added to the KU Ring of Honor.

6Sports video: KU soccer squad ready for Hawaii

A week and half and counting until the Kansas soccer team opens the 2007 season - in Hawaii!

Riggins headed to KU football Ring of Honor

John Riggins, Kansas University’s sixth all-time leading rusher and one of three former Jayhawks enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, will have his named added to the Ring of Honor at Memorial Stadium on Oct. 13 when KU hosts Baylor.

Ready to rumble

'Thunder' McAnderson eager to bring noise

August isn’t known for producing storms in Kansas, but the beginning of football season is here, and with it comes Kansas University’s version of “thunder.” “People say that. They said the same thing in high school,” senior fullback Brandon McAnderson said. “But I don’t know what thunder is, actually. If I’m a big sound, then I’m thunder.”

KU on prep Morgan’s list

Kansas University recruiting target J’Mison Morgan has sliced his list of schools to six. Morgan, a 6-foot-10, 275-pound senior out of Dallas’ South Oak Cliff High, tells Rivals.com he will attend either Kansas, Kentucky, Alabama, LSU, UCLA or Louisville.

Kansas State TE suspended

Kansas State football player Rashaad Norwood has been suspended indefinitely, coach Ron Prince said Monday.

KU baseball to hold tryouts

Kansas University’s baseball team will hold open tryouts to fill the roster for the upcoming season.

Keller named starter at NU

Sam Keller will start at quarterback in No. 20 Nebraska’s season opener against Nevada on Sept. 1, coach Bill Callahan announced Monday.

6Sports video: KU volleyball season kicks off this Friday

The 2007 volleyball season begins this Friday for the Kansas Jayhawks. This coming weekend, KU hits the road for a tournament at the University of Oregon.

Better to receive

Rookies, returners bolster KU corps

One of the main questions surrounding the Kansas University football team’s preseason focused on which quarterback - Kerry Meier or Todd Reesing - would win the starting job The answer ended up being Reesing, but it hardly matters if the guys downfield don’t do their jobs. That shouldn’t be a problem, according to those who will run the routes. Despite losing key receivers Brian Murph and Jonathan Lamb, the Jayhawks return a host of wideouts with the potential and talent to make an impact.

6Sports video: Mangino picks Reesing

And then there was one. The Kansas football team opens its season in less that two weeks, and the Jayhawks have a number one quarterback. It’s not the incumbent Kerry Meier. Instead, sophomore Todd Reesing is Mark Mangino’s pick.

6Sports video: Bonnie’s golf tourney fills two courses

It’s the golf tournament that’s too big for one golf course. With 212 participants competing in yesterday’s Bonnie Henrickson Tourney, the event took up not only Alvamar’s public course, but also Alvamar Country Club.

USC opens season as team to beat

After a season of chasing, Southern California is again the team being chased. And that’s just the way coach Pete Carroll and the Trojans like it. For the third time in the past four years, USC begins the college football season No. 1 in the Associated Press Top 25.

Keegan: Keegan: Top QB at Kansas stands tall

Sitting side-by-side, backs against the goal post on the south end of Kivisto Field, Kansas University sophomores Kerry Meier and Todd Reesing looked as if they could have been waiting for their names to be called for the father-son punt, pass, and kick competition.

Texas’ Pittman sidelined

That deep and talented Texas receiving corps is taking a beating.

Texas A&M’s defense gaining steam

When defensive coordinator Gary Darnell arrived at Texas A&M in December 2005, he found a crew that was mentally wrecked. Historically known for its hard-hitting style, A&M ranked 107th nationally in total defense in 2005, less than a dozen spots from dead last. The Aggies had allowed 31.2 points per game, the second-highest mark in school history.

Ryan Wood’s KU football notebook

It was noticeable for onlookers at two open practices earlier this month. But until Saturday, no one in Kansas University’s football program wanted to admit that quarterback Kerry Meier wasn’t 100 percent.

Colorado QBs make cases

They’ve done all they can. Now, they wait. Junior Nick Nelson and redshirt freshman Cody Hawkins, both competing to be the starting quarterback for the Colorado Buffaloes, made their final auditions at a scrimmage Saturday at Folsom Field.

Tigers lack consistency

Mizzou coach looking for more

A two-hour scrimmage Saturday left Missouri coach Gary Pinkel searching for consistency from his top units on both sides of the ball. During the scrimmage, Missouri’s second of three during fall camp, quarterback Chase Daniel again looked sharp and his backup, Chase Patton, took a significant amount of snaps.

Reesing gets nod

Former backup unseats incumbent Meier

Todd Reesing had to have seen it coming. But the Kansas University sophomore didn’t get the official word until Saturday morning, when offensive coordinator Ed Warinner told Reesing he would be the football team’s starting quarterback.

It’s official: Reesing’s the guy

Following Saturday afternoon’s practice, Kansas University football coach Mark Mangino confirmed what many had speculated for nearly two weeks now. Sophomore quarterback Todd Reesing’s first career start will come Sept. 1, when the Jayhawks open their 2007 season at Memorial Stadium against reigning MAC champion Central Michigan.

BCS success sometimes comes at a price

Making a BCS bowl was a great deal for Utah - and for Florida, which celebrated the Utes’ success by hiring away their coach. Louisville overcame injuries and adversity to finally hit the big-time, the Orange Bowl. For a game against … Wake Forest? And who will ever forget Boise State’s incredible comeback against Oklahoma last season in the Fiesta Bowl? Certainly none of those Boise State fans.

Handshy’s hobbies: harmonica, hard hits

Sitting in a dormitory hallway, his back propped against the wall after two-a-day football practices in 100-degree heat, Ian Handshy has a case of the blues. Blues music that is. “He plays everywhere - in the locker room, after summer workouts. I heard him last night when I was sitting in my room. I heard some tunes that were pretty awesome. He’s pretty good,” Kansas University running back Brandon McAnderson said of current KU teammate and fellow Lawrence High graduate Handshy.

August anticipation

K.C. fans show support for 2007 Jayhawks

This time of year, Kansas University football coach Mark Mangino doesn’t have to say much to get a crowd going. An assurance that the players are working hard. A vow that this year’s team is better. Sneak in the words “bowl game” near the end of the speech, and the ovation lasts until he steps off the stage.

MU’s Alexander likes increased role

After a productive freshman season, Danario Alexander is at the top of the depth chart for Missouri wide receivers. Alexander had 15 catches for 251 yards and a touchdown in 2006. In preseason practice, he’s turning heads while working at the No. 1 spot at the H-receiver position. “He’s certainly a playmaker,” coach Gary Pinkel said after a scrimmage Monday in which Alexander caught three passes for 79 yards.

Football needs a monster, and it could be USC

When Pac-10 football coaches gathered here for media day, their whimpering drowned out the jet engines at nearby LAX. How, they cried, are we supposed to beat Southern California? From the backfield to the secondary, the top-ranked Trojans have more talent than anyone in the nation - and maybe anyone in history, according to Stanford coach Jim Harbaugh.

6Sports video: Mangino attends football kickoff rally

Mark Mangino and the Kansas Jayhawks return to practice early tomorrow morning, but tonight coach spent the evening in Prairie Village with members of the Jayhawk nation. More than 3,500 ‘Hawk faithful attended tonight’s Kansas Football kickoff rally.

6Sports video: Fine ready for season

Not many Kansas receivers had better years in 2006 than tight end Derek Fine. The Jayhawks senior however feels like he should have done more. As a junior, the Salisaw, Okla. native caught a career best 28 calls for 355 yards, third best on the team.

KSU grad Diles impressing Texans

Zac Diles wasn’t expected to play a very big role in coach Gary Kubiak’s plan for the Houston Texans this season. In fact, he wasn’t supposed to play much of a role at all. But the seventh-round pick has been so impressive in camp that Kubiak is beginning to change his mind. “He’s pushing hard to get on the field awful quick, so we’ll see,” Kubiak said. “That’s a big step to take, but if the kid keeps doing what he’s doing, we’re going to have to find a way to get him out there.”

Ryan Wood’s KU Football Notebook

Arkansas transfer Andrew Norman will not be playing football at Kansas University this year. A source at KU confirmed that Norman wasn’t coming, which correlated with what Norman’s father, Robert, said earlier Thursday. “It looks like he won’t be enrolling at Kansas,” Robert Norman said. “I’m not sure where he’ll be enrolling, but it appears he won’t be going to Kansas.”

KU kicker Webb ready for finale

One of the most boring plays in college football the past few years - the kickoff - figures to be a fan favorite in 2007. Why? Tees this season will be placed on the 30-yard-line, not the 35. Those five yards figure to be enough to put the touchback on the endangered list. “You look at the NFL : there are very few touchbacks in the NFL. We’re now kicking it from the same spot they are,” KU special-teams coach Louie Matsakis said.

KU baseball coach linked to Oregon

Kansas University baseball coach Ritch Price is being linked to the vacant head-coaching job at the University of Oregon, according to a published report. The Oregonian wrote that Price is “a possibility” for the vacancy at Oregon, though athletic director Pat Kilkenny told the paper that he had “not yet” interviewed Price. Price said that he has not been contacted by Kilkenny, but was aware Thursday afternoon of the link.

6Sports video: KU Big 12 North contender?

Just 16 days and counting now until the start of the 2007 Kansas Football season. Will this be the year the Jayhawks finally break through and win the big 12’s North division?

6Sports video: Football complex under construction

The view from the Campanile into Memorial Stadium on a fall Saturday is among the best in college football. Right now, however, that view is receiving a face lift.

Norman won’t be joining Jayhawks

Arkansas transfer Andrew Norman apparently is not going to be playing football at Kansas University, contrary to a published report.

Ryan Wood’s KU football notebook

¢ Transfer coming?¢ Mangino to speak¢ FSN preview

Lee added to Kansas basketball staff

Key reserve on 2 Final Four teams joins Jayhawks as graduate student manager

Michael Lee, who has traveled all over the United States and to several foreign countries since graduating from Kansas University in 2005, has decided to unpack his bags in Lawrence. Former KU shooting guard Lee - he competed for the Harlem Globetrotters in 2005-06 and played professionally in France and Canada last season - on Wednesday was named graduate student manager by Jayhawks coach Bill Self.

Keegan: Keegan: Collins large on heart

Playground legends, in fact and fiction, have the greatest nicknames. Ice, SkyLab, The Goat, Black Jesus, White Jordan, and the best of all, Tick Tick Boom. When he released his shot he’d say, “Tick, Tick,” and when it swished through the net, he’d add “Boom.”

“A.C.” right for wrong sport

Basketball player at heart finds home on O-line

Anthony Collins generally is regarded as one of the Kansas University football team’s top NFL prospects. Not bad for a guy who played a different position a year ago, on the other side of the ball three years ago and with a different kind of ball altogether just over five years ago. “A.C. came to us having only played one year of football,” said KU offensive-line coach John Reagan.

6Sports video: No non-conference road games for the ‘Hawks

The last two non-conference road games for the Kansas Football team were not memorable ones. In 2004, KU lost by three to Northwestern. Last year, the ‘Hawks fell at Toledo in double-overtime. The good news for KU is that for the second time in three years, the Jayhawks won’t play a road game until conference play.

Former guard Lee named graduate student manager

Kansas University men’s basketball coach Bill Self today named former Jayhawk guard Michael Lee graduate student manager for the team this upcoming season.

2007-08 tip times decided

The times of Kansas University’s men’s basketball games for the 2007-08 season have been announced. The Jayhawks will play 10 day games and 20 night games, with the time of KU’s home game against Baylor yet to be revealed.

Jayhawk women end Australia trip on high note

Danielle McCray sparkled, but the sophomore guard wasn’t the whole show as Kansas University’s basketball team completed its Australian tour. McCray paced the Jayhawks with 21 points and eight rebounds in an 83-54 romp over Queensland U-19 state team on Tuesday.

A nice catch for Kansas

Freshman WR vying for playing time

As the Kansas University football program’s recruiting efforts advance to higher levels, signing ready-made athletes is becoming more commonplace each year. Finding a future star, however, is more than just measurements.

MU’s Temple back on field

Tony Temple returned to full-contact drills for the first time in a week Tuesday, but Missouri coach Gary Pinkel also confirmed that Temple’s backup at running back, Marcus Woods, will miss more than a week with a high-ankle sprain.

Backup center leaves OU

Backup center Chase Beeler has left the Oklahoma football team, coach Bob Stoops said Tuesday night.

Ryan Wood’s KU football notebook

Kansas University’s football team continues to practice - sometimes twice a day - with temperatures simmering toward triple digits.

Jayhawks’ Simpson signs with Cleveland

Kansas University outfielder Brock Simpson has decided to skip his senior season and sign with the Cleveland Indians.

White picks Texas A&M

Tyra White, a McDonald’s All-American out of Hickman Mills High School in Kansas City, Mo., has signed a national letter of intent with Texas A&M.

KU picked fifth in Big 12 soccer

Kansas University’s soccer team was picked to finish fifth in the Big 12 Conference in a poll of league coaches.

6Sports video: Who will start opposite Aqib Talib?

Preseason All-American Aqib Talib will start at one cornerback position this fall, but who will start at the other spot?

Keegan: Keegan: Reesing natural leader

Here’s the best thing about Todd Reesing: It doesn’t really matter what anybody else thinks about his shortcomings. He thinks he’s really good, and it shows in everything he does.

Ryan Wood’s KU football notebook

As Kansas University freshman football cornerback Chris Harris talked to reporters, junior standout Aqib Talib walked by the scrum and shouted, “That’s my young’n right there!”

Hinrich out, Collison in for U.S. team

Former Jayhawk pulls out of crowded point-guard competition

Citing personal reasons, former Kansas University guard Kirk Hinrich withdrew from U.S. men’s senior national team basketball training camp on Monday, the day ex-Jayhawk Nick Collison was added to the squad.

Tech’s Rizvic gets half season

Texas Tech’s Esmir Rizvic, who suffered a fractured eye socket when an opposing player elbowed him, will remain eligible for another half season because of the injury, the NCAA announced Monday.

‘Sparky’ appears to be KU’s starting QB

Sparky’s about to become a starter, it seems. If common sense told any of the 100 or so onlookers at Kansas University’s open football practice anything on Monday, it’s that Todd Reesing is in line to be the Jayhawks’ starting quarterback when Kansas plays Central Michigan on Sept. 1 in the season opener.

KU Web site drops student loan ad

The Web site for the Kansas University athletic department no longer includes a link to University Financial Services.

Fieldhouse getting new roof

Allen Fieldhouse, which has leaked in spots since the microburst of March 2006, is getting a new roof. Workers from Boone Brothers Roofing of Olathe have started work on the roof and will continue to replace it in sections, with the job expected to be completed at the end of September.

6Sports video: Third Jayhawk baseball player signs pro contract

KU outfielder Brock Simpson has inked a deal with the Cleveland Indians organization.

6Sports video: Reesing moves ahead in QB battle

In Mark Mangino’s second open practice of the season, the media and fans in attendance watched a Kansas offense run almost exclusively by sophomore QB Todd Reesing.

6Sports video: Aqib Talib ready to lead the Jayhawk defense

While several Jayhawks battle it out for starting positions, Aqib Talib is NOT one of them.

Ryan Wood’s Monday practice notebook

KU football beat writer gives some notes from Monday’s open practice.

Line shoulders responsibility for porous pass defense

Platoon of pass rushers, led by senior McClinton, looks to stop big plays before they start this season

Kansas University’s football team finished 119th, or dead last, among NCAA Division I-A teams in pass defense last year, surrendering 269 yards a game. The defensive line has a quick fix for the problem, though - harass the quarterback. “Obviously, you know if you sack the quarterback, they’re not throwing the ball,” junior defensive end Russell Brorsen said.

6Sports video: KU hopes for different results this year

Last season, the Kansas Football team’s record could have been 10-2. That is if the Jayhawks colud have held on to a 4th quarter lead. Four times in 2006, KU was on top heading into the final frame before blowing it.

Handicapping the conferences

Funny how Southeastern Conference fans believe their favorite football league doesn’t get enough respect, while fans of every other conference argue the SEC is overrated. They can’t both be right. In fact, they’re probably both wrong.

Mangino pleased with scrimmage

Kansas University’s football team concluded its first full week of preseason practice with a long 120-play scrimmage Saturday at Memorial Stadium.

Bacheyie starting to live up to name

After delay and position switches, 'Hostile' beginning to settle in at safety for Jayhawks

Tang Bacheyie says the best thing about football is “being able to hit people as hard as you want and not get in trouble.” That certainly explains his nickname. “We call him ‘Hostile,’” free safety Darrell Stuckey said of Bacheyie, a junior and projected starter at strong safety on the Kansas University football team. “It fits perfectly with his personality. He’s very competitive.”

Morris propels KU women past Aussie squad, 83-56

Sade Morris displayed her upside while playing Down Under on Saturday. Morris, a sophomore guard, scored a game-high 19 points as Kansas University’s touring women’s basketball team blitzed Logan Red, 83-56.

OU, Texas lead league

Big 12 preview: A&M underdog

Forget the resurrection of the Big 12 North. Why not the resurrection of the 10 teams not named Texas or Oklahoma?

Heisman race is on

Top candidates populate backfields

In 1994, Colorado’s Rashaan Salaam beat out Penn State’s Ki-Jana Carter for the Heisman Trophy. Neither running back went on to do much in the NFL, but that race remains notable for an interesting bit of trivia. It’s the only time since 1981 that no quarterback finished in the top two in the Heisman voting.

Ground attack bolstered by B-Mac

Tight end, fullback, tackles a lock; other positions still up in air

You can just picture Kansas University offensive coordinator Ed Warinner ripping a box open and dumping 500 puzzle pieces onto the desk in his office.

Track standouts abound

From the moment Stanley Redwine first recruited Crystal Manning, the talented triple jumper from Terrell, Texas, the Kansas University track coach knew he was pursuing a special athlete.

Well, well, look who’s back

Rush's decision to return helps salve loss of Wright

Ever the optimist, Bill Self brightened the mood of Kansas University’s sullen, shell-shocked basketball fans last April 10.

Next in line

Center Cantrell has big shoes to fill

It surely can be argued that no position on Kansas University’s football team has been as consistently rock solid the last four years as center. The 2003 and ‘04 seasons featured Joe Vaughn, who certainly had NFL talent if only he were bigger. The ‘05 and ‘06 teams had David Ochoa, an All-Big 12 selection forever complimented for his toughness and leadership.

Central Michigan won’t be cupcake opener

Kansas University coach Mark Mangino is leery of season openers, since college football has no preseason games or intersquad scrimmages to knock the inevitable rust off.He really isn’t going to like this year’s debut.

FIU ranked last in NCAA Div. I-A

Lindy’s College Football preseason magazine took the task of ranking all of Division I-A football from top to bottom.

Cross country strong

Kansas University’s men’s cross country seems poised for another strong year, and the Jayhawks’ success begins with returning seniors Colby Wissel and Paul Hefferon.

Price: Baseball loaded

Just two years removed from a Big 12 Conference tournament championship, Kansas University baseball coach Ritch Price is considering his 2008 squad to be quite possibly the “best” team he has fielded at KU.

Recruiting targets net honors

Bob Gibbons, the granddaddy of basketball recruiting analysts, included some Kansas University targets in his “cream of the crop” list compiled after evaluating various summertime AAU tournaments. Greg Monroe, 6-foot-10 from Cox High in Harvey, La., was one of five players named second-team all-Gibbons, while Willie Warren, 6-3 from Fort Worth, Texas, was third team and Xavier Henry, 6-6 from Putnam City, Okla., fourth team.

Tennis expectations high again

The expectations were high for the Kansas University women’s tennis team at the beginning of the 2006-2007 season, being ranked in the top 60 in the nation at the start of the spring season.

Grove tickled to take over men’s golf reins

Asked for his emotions upon replacing his mentor as Kansas University men’s head golf coach, Kit Grove was at a loss for words.

Surging swimmers on a roll

Kansas University swimming and diving coach Clark Campbell lauded last year’s team, ranking it above the others he has coached during his five years at the school.

Women hope to capitalize on end-of-season surge

No inside game. Not much of an outside game. And a foul-prone defense.

SE Louisiana not punchless

There probably isn’t much doubt who should be favored when Kansas University and Football Championship Subdivision (formerly I-AA) foe Southeastern Lousiana square off on Sept. 8.

10 athletes you don’t want to miss

Some athletes are easy to root for, regardless of the uniforms they wear.

Rowing going be to young

After losing 10 seniors, a tender-aged Kansas University rowing team will feature just five seniors this year.

Soccer seeks return to NCAA tourney

After failing to make the NCAA Tournament for the second year in a row, the Kansas University soccer team is hoping to reverse that trend this year. With nine starters back from last year’s squad and nine incoming freshmen, KU coach Mark Francis said this year’s team should be able to reach some lofty goals.

Crisosto leads big cast of softball returnees

Will the real Stevie Crisosto please stand up?

Volleyball learned from 2006 struggles

The Kansas University volleyball team finished last season with a 10-19 overall record and a 3-17 last-place finish in the Big 12. In addition, Kansas failed to make the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2002. But coach Ray Bechard said last season was a valuable learning experience.

Rockets roller-coaster riddle

It has come to the point where Kansas University’s football seniors are more familiar with Toledo than any Big 12 South team.

Will defense flip-flops prove fortuitous?

Position switches not new for Jayhawks; Onyegbule, Brorsen continue trend

Whether it’s sliding from outside to middle linebacker, shifting from another defensive position or switching sides of the ball completely, Kansas University’s football defenders seem to have excessive experience elsewhere on the field.

6Sports video: New uniforms debuted

The Kansas Football team not only met the media for the first time in 2007, but the Jayhawks also unveiled their new look uniforms for the upcoming season.

Kansas athletics staffer faces December trial

A Douglas County Court judge ruled Thursday that William Dent, Kansas University director of sports medicine, will go to trial in connection with an April domestic incident involving Dent’s former wife, Marissa Dent, and her companion, John Clark. Dent, 41, has served in the position at KU since 2004.

Costner eliminated at Women’s Amateur

Former Kansas University golfer Amanda Costner was eliminated in the first round of match play Wednesday at the U.S. Women’s Amateur golf championships.

Mayer: Mayer: Quit sawing, just win

Quite often the past five football seasons, Kansas University would play hard, come close, then lose, and coach Mark Mangino would note, in his low-key manner, “We’ve just got to keep sawin’ wood” to get better. You get the impression that athletic director Lew Perkins figures this is the season when the Jayhawks finally need to stop just sawing and start milling some solid lumber to begin construction on a House of Success.

McCray lifts Kansas to win in Australia

KU rebounds from blowout with 78-71 victory

Danielle McCray poured in 26 points, and Kansas University’s women’s basketball team tripped Logan Blue, 78-71, on Thursday during its four-game tour of Australia. McCray scored 14 of her points in the third quarter as the Jayhawks bounced back from an 88-54 thumping by a Sydney club team two nights earlier. “This is a step in the right direction for us,” KU coach Bonnie Henrickson said. “It’s a win, and we had a lot of positives, but I am certainly looking forward to us playing better in our upcoming games.”

Ex-Jayhawk excited to join Celtics

Known as one of the zaniest, silliest, most colorful players in the NBA, Scot Pollard didn’t disappoint a roomful of reporters at his Boston Celtics introductory news conference Thursday in downtown Beantown.

6Sports video: QB confusion continues

It would not be Kansas football season without a little confusion at the quarterback position. And with less than a month before the start of the Jayhawks’ season, that’s exactly what coach Mark Mangino has.

6Sports video: Pollard joins Celtics

Scot Pollard is officially a Boston Celtic. The former Kansas center joins fellow Jayhawk alum Paul Pierce in Bean town. Pollard, a 10-year NBA veteran, makes Boston the fifth stop in his pro career.

The heir apparent?

'Loner' Sharp ready to help carry the load for Kansas

Let the Kansas University running-back battle begin. No, not that battle, the one where the leading candidates to be The Man who gets all the touches are trying to catch the coaches’ eyes. No, this is about the other battle in the backfield, the escalating war of words that often arises when a group of guys so confident - and different - in their abilities on the field and so comfortable with their relationships off it tend to, well, pop off.

Gary Bedore’s KU basketball notebook

¢ Chalmers receives praise¢ Self plays Southern Hills¢ Monroe update

6Sports video: McAnderson voted funniest

The votes are in. And as you can see, Lawrence’s own Brandon McAnderson has been voted the funniest player on the team.

6Sports video: QB talk heats up

Injury and ineptitude led to a mess under center for the 2006 Kansas Football team. Kerry Meier made eight starts and threw for a freshman record 13 touchdowns, but missed four games with an injured shoulder.

Reesing takes early lead in arms race

Freshly shaven, with a brand-new uniform and accompanied by his typical good mood, Kansas University sophomore Todd Reesing chatted with reporters for close to an hour Tuesday at KU’s hectic football media day. Perhaps his first public obligation as the team’s No. 1 quarterback?

Aussie club whips KU women, 88-54

Danielle McCray had 20 points and eight rebounds, but Kansas University’s women’s basketball team was thumped, 88-54, by the Sydney Flames Tuesday in the opening game of its Australian tour.

Texas lineman out of jail

Texas freshman defensive tackle Andre Jones, who was being held since Friday in the Travis County Jail on a charge of aggravated robbery with a deadly weapon, posted bond and was released Tuesday.

Loan probe

University athletic departments now are drawing attention in an investigation about kickbacks from student loan companies.

If well-regarded academic units have done it, it’s not surprising that some American college athletic departments might have steered student athletes to education lenders in exchange for kickbacks.

Report: Pollard to play for Celtics

Former Jayhawk agrees to $1.2 million, one-year deal

The Boston Celtics have agreed to terms with free agent forward/center Scot Pollard, executive director of basketball operations/general manager Danny Ainge confirmed to the Boston Globe.

Oklahoma, Cincinnati to meet

The University of Cincinnati will play Big 12 Conference power Oklahoma in a home-and-home series, UC said Tuesday.

Miles headed to Spain

Ex-Jayhawk lands job overseas; Lee to work as graduate assistant

Former Kansas University point guard Aaron Miles will travel overseas to play basketball again this season.

Woodling: Woodling: Complex hardly cure-all

Mark Mangino is as adept as any coach in America when it comes to dodging, deflecting or dancing around a question. Tuesday wasn’t any different. With several print and electronic reporters on hand for Kansas University’s annual football media day, Mangino reiterated what he has been saying all summer and offered very little, if any, new information about the Jayhawks.

Nebraska tight end arrested

Nebraska tight end Hunter Teafatiller faces a September court date after being arrested on suspicion of drunken driving for a second time in three months.

Ryan Wood’s KU football notebook

The news was a little better for injured cornerback Kendrick Harper than what was originally feared.

6Sports video: Jayhawk football squad kicks off 2007 Media Day

The college football season officially began today for the Channel 6 Sports crew at the 2007 Kansas Jayhawk Media Day.

Notes from Kansas Football Media Day

Some notes early on from Kansas Football Media Day at Hadl Auditorium…

New uniforms unveiled

Check out the new KU football threads unveiled at today’s media day, featuring the University-wide Trajan font.

KU upperclassmen lend hand at camp

Kansas University’s Sasha Kaun and Mario Chalmers worked as camp counselors at the Adidas Nations Basketball Experience from Friday through Monday in New Orleans.

Gockel cards an 80

Kansas University golfer Meghan Gockel finished her first round of stroke play with an 80 Monday at the 2007 U.S. Women’s Golf Amateur. She is tied for 104th.

Keller not a starter just yet

Sam Keller already has the fan adulation, and he already has been named offensive newcomer of the year in the Big 12. All this, and he hasn’t been named Nebraska’s starting quarterback. At least not yet. It has been almost a year since Keller had the starting job at Arizona State yanked from him unceremoniously. The decision by Dirk Koetter chafed Keller, and he left the desert for the green pastures of Nebraska.

Ex-Jayhawk Davenport dies of heart problems

Memorial Services for former Kansas University basketball player Larry Davenport will be held at 1:30 p.m. today at Leavenworth National Cemetery.

Bigger Quigley ready to make collegiate debut

Looking more like an imposing linebacker, Kansas University running back Angus Quigley seemed back to normal going through drills at Sunday’s open football practice. Finally. One year removed from a devastating thigh injury that required surgery and a stint in a wheelchair, Quigley got his feet wet during spring workouts and now is diving in, looking for significant playing time at running back as KU’s preseason camp gets going.

Gatlin thought shot was B12 vitamin

World-class sprinter hopes confusion over injection shortens 8-year ban

The top assistant to track coach Trevor Graham gave Justin Gatlin an injection, which he believed to be vitamin B12, two weeks before the world record-sharing sprinter tested positive for steroids. After Randall Evans gave Gatlin the shot, the sprinter was given what he was told were anti-inflammatory pills as a follow-up, a person with knowledge of the case told the Associated Press on Monday.

Woodling: Woodling: Best to avoid Arkansas

I don’t collect football stadiums. I don’t keep a list of all the gridiron venues I have visited during nearly four decades of covering the Jayhawks. Yet it occurred to me not too long ago that I had never been to Arkansas. Hmmm. I had been all over the country - from Los Angeles to Syracuse, from Florida State to Oregon State - on KU football assignments and had never set foot on the campus of a school approximately the same distance from Lawrence as Oklahoma State.

6Sports video: KU football practice heats up

After four practices into the 2007 KU football season there are plenty of questions to be answered.

Jayhawks’ fiery Rivera will play, but where?

Wherever he goes - playing middle linebacker, outside linebacker or just talking to the media - Mike Rivera brings an intensity that makes him seem mad almost all the time.He’s not, but like a few of his peers among Kansas University’s linebacker fleet, Rivera seems to play football with a nonstop chip on his shoulder.

Ryan Wood’s KU football notebook

Two Kansas University football players who were projected starters on the post-spring depth chart are now injured and not practicing.

6Sports video: ‘Hawks practice for first time this season in shoulder-pads

In the third practice in preparation for the upcoming football season, the Jayhawks hit the field in the early morning and used shoulder-pads for the first time this season.

Ryan Wood’s Sunday KU football practice notes

Journal-World KU football beat writer Ryan Wood gives some notes from Sunday morning’s KU football practice, which was open to both the media and the publlic.

Woodling: Woodling: Mason odd pick for TV

Help Wanted. The fledging Big Ten Football Network is looking for a play-by-play announcer to work with Glen Mason. Glen Mason??? A TV analyst??? What’s next? George Bush co-hosting “The Daily Show” after his second term expires?

Rough start for K-State QB

Sophomore Freeman flunks conditioning; several others also have yet to practice

Josh Freeman came back for Kansas State’s preseason drills feeling fairly good about his summer workout program. He’d put on weight and gotten stronger. Then the sophomore quarterback took his conditioning test - and flunked. On Saturday, he failed it again.

Redwine focused on KU after ‘short summer’

Stanley Redwine, who dedicated his month of July to coaching the United States Pan American Games men’s track team, now hits the road recruiting in the early portion of August.

Gunning for KU

LeFevour shifts focus to Kansas

All Dan LeFevour knows of Kansas University’s Memorial Stadium is a picture of the venue he saw earlier this summer. “It looks like a great place,” he said. Now, LeFevour has his sights set on keeping the stadium as quiet in person as it is in the photo.

Unfamiliar expectations

Tigers open practice with big plans for '07 season

Since Gary Pinkel’s arrival at Missouri seven years ago, the Tigers have made the transition from bad to competitive. As the Tigers gathered in sweltering heat for their first practice Saturday, they enter the 2007 season with something new: high expectations.

Colorado suspends three for brawling

The University of Colorado football team has suspended three players after allegations of brawling, sports information director Dave Plati said.

Texas lineman arrested

Texas freshman defensive tackle Andre Jones was arrested on a charge of aggravated robbery Friday, his 18th birthday. Jones was charged in connection with a robbery at an Austin apartment complex on July 27.

Mangino pleased with first practice

Kansas University football coach Mark Mangino gave a resounding thumbs-up to the Jayhawks’ first football practice of the 2007 season. “I really liked the tempo we had for a first practice out here,” Mangino said in a statement.

Indiana prep Zeller takes Kansas off list

Blue-chip basketball prospect Tyler Zeller, a 6-foot-11 senior from Washington (Ind.) High, narrowed his college list to four schools on Friday.

KU football to hold first practice today

Kansas University’s football veterans and newcomers reported to campus Thursday and will practice for the first time this season this morning.

KU adds staffer

Kansas University’s athletic department has announced the hiring of Katy Lonergan as assistant media relations director.

Huskers hire ex-columnist

Nebraska athletic director Steve Pederson has hired a former Lincoln sports reporter to the top communications post for the athletic department as part of a restructuring of the athletic department, the athletic department said Thursday.

Lending probe intended to protect students

Prosecutors said Thursday that an investigation into the relationship between major college athletic departments - including Kansas University - and a student lender is being conducted to protect students.

Names back on OU jerseys

Oklahoma coach Bob Stoops provided the answer to the No. 2 question on the minds of Sooners fans Thursday night.

Mayer: Seniors stabilizing influence

College basketball coaches such as Bill Self probably dream of recruiting classes hubbed by the likes of Russell Robinson, Sasha Kaun, Danny Manning, Kirk Hinrich, Nick Collison and Jacque Vaughn. Not just because of the talent but because they’re the caliber of four-year men around whom you can build a solid, self-perpetuating program.

Kansas not on prep Czyz’s narrowed list

College basketball recruiting update… Rising Reno (Nev.) High senior forward Olek Czyz narrowed his college list to Duke, Florida and Louisville on Thursday before heading to his homeland of Poland for a three-week trip.

6Sports video: Jayhawk diving club stands out in Orlando

More than 1000 divers took part in the AAU National Championships in Orlando. Few, however, faired as well as the Jayhawk diving club.

6Sports video: The pigskins will fly tomorrow for KU

Tomorrow, the KU football team officially starts Fall camp!

Celtics looking at Pollard

Boston is a possible destination for former Kansas University forward/center Scot Pollard, the Boston Herald reported Wednesday.

KU denies illegal lending

University says investigation of athletic dept. is misguided

New York Attorney General Andrew Cuomo is now investigating whether major college athletic departments - including Kansas University - steered athletes and other students to an education lender in exchange for kickbacks.

KU freshman uninjured in collapse

Kansas University freshman basketball player Cole Aldrich and his loved ones were safe and sound in their hometown of Bloomington, Minn., Wednesday night - about 20 miles from the bridge that collapsed on I-35 and sent cars tumbling into the Mississippi River.

Jayhawks report

Kansas University football players - 105 in all - will report today for the start of fall camp. They will check into housing, complete physicals, get equipment and do paperwork as prelude to Friday’s first practice.

6Sports video: KU signee Reed plays in KBCA All-Star Game

Future Kansas Jayhawk Tyrel Reed was one of several Kansas high school athletes who participated in the KBCA All-Star Game.

KU subpoenaed in student loan scheme; university denies direct link to troubled company

Andrew Cuomo said Wednesday that he served 39 universities with subpoenas

New York Attorney General Andrew Cuomo is now investigating whether top college athletic departments nationwide - including those at Auburn University, Ohio University, Texas Christian University and Kansas University steered student athletes to education lenders in exchange for kickbacks.

Recruiting ‘competitive’

Self, Sadler civil while watching prospects in July

Bill Self scooted over to make room for a Big 12 Conference competitor in the roped-off VIP section in Okun Fieldhouse. Nebraska’s Doc Sadler kept Kansas University’s fifth-year basketball coach company during a Price Chopper AAU battle between Georgia Elite and Kansas City Pump N Run - one of the dozens of games the rivals viewed in the just-completed July recruiting evaluation period.

Woodling: Woodling: Van Saun good fit for job

Paul Van Saun was a solid starting defensive tackle for Kansas University’s football team as a junior back in the mid-70s. Prior to his senior year, however, I wrote that Van Saun was in danger of losing his job to a junior named Mike Butler. I remember the article because Van Saun’s wife reacted at the time by informing me in no uncertain terms that I didn’t know what I was talking about.

KU prospect boosts Pump N Run

Kansas City Pump N Run looked out of sorts in the early going of its championship game against the Illinois Warriors in the Price Chopper Invitational on Tuesday at Okun Fieldhouse. Missed shots, defensive lapses and unforced turnovers had Pump N Run heading toward a runner-up finish.

Celtics land Garnett in blockbuster

Ex-Jayhawk Pierce giddy after deal finalized with Wolves

It was a day for rejoicing in Beantown, not just for Boston Celtics fans, but the returning players as well. “This is a tremendous day,” Celtics veteran and former Kansas University forward Paul Pierce said after Kevin Garnett was acquired in a trade with the Minnesota Timberwolves. “I feel like a rookie again.”

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