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Sooners Continue Preparations for North Carolina. August 21, 2001 by Jason Waganer Executive Editor Norman, Okla. -- Mike Stoops, OU assistant head coach and co-defensive coordinator, sat in for Head Coach Bob Stoops at Tuesday's media luncheon. Bob Stoops is out of the state with his family where a medical procedure was performed on one of his children yesterday afternoon. Mike Stoops said the medical procedure went well, and Bob Stoops should return to the Sooners' practices on Thursday morning. Below are some newsworthy items that also came out of the Tuesday's luncheon: On Preparing for North Carolina: Stoops said preparing for the first game of the season is always difficult, but especially in this case. Since the Tarheels have a new coaching staff, the Sooners have had to watch game film from numerous teams to adequately prepare.
On the Sooners' health: Stoops said the Sooners are at almost 100 percent. "There are a few question marks," said Stoops. "But hopefully most will work themselves out by Saturday night."
About the Wide Receivers and Defensive Backs: Brandon Everage practiced for the first time on Monday and should start on Saturday night, according to Stoops. Andre Woolfolk should contribute, and possible start, both offensively and defensively on Saturday.
"Woolfolk will split time between the offense and defense," said Stoops. "If the offense takes the field first, he'll probably start at wide receiver. If the defense hits the field first, he'll start at corner."
Stoops also said redshirt freshman Antonio Perkins would see significant playing time. "I have a lot of confidence in Antonio," said Stoops. "And that's why I want to get him in early."
Stoops also said true freshman Brandon Jones would probably see playing time at the Sooners' talented wide receiver position.
On North Carolina starting QB Ronald Curry and All-American Defensive End Julius Peppers: Stoops said fourth year senior quarterback Ronald Curry's athleticism is a concern for the Sooner defense. He said they expect him to scramble often and even run some option.
"I'd say Curry will handle the ball a considerable amount," said Stoops.
Stoops said the offense will definitely be looking out for North Carolina preseason All-American Peppers.
"We'll definitely have our hands full with him," said Stoops. "We'll have to be conscious of where he's coming from for our offense to be successful. He's a great player."
One being a target since winning the National Championship: Stoops said OU isn't concerned about other teams circling the Sooners on their schedules. He said the Sooners want to win each game just like any other team does.
"Just because we beat a team last year doesn't mean we're not going to try hard and beat them again," said Stoops.
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