Aug. 11, 2010

Jameel Owens expected to be another great receiver at the University of Oklahoma when he started his college career with the Sooners in 2008. He saw playing time as a freshman and was just starting to perfect his craft while in the hands of successful people like coach Bob Stoops and former quarterback Sam Bradford.

Owens had some extenuating circumstances that made life in Norman difficult, however, and the former high-school star decided to take his talents to the University of Tulsa.

"It was a great experience to come out of high school and get to play at a big Division I program like that," Owens said. "It just wasn't a good fit, though, so I decided to leave OU. I chose Tulsa because it's a family. The coaches treat the players like they are their sons, and I love the atmosphere here."

The standout receiver took a redshirt in 2009 in his final year as a Sooner and was given a hardship waiver from the NCAA, which means he will be eligible to play this season instead of having to sit out a transfer season. He will have three years of eligibility remaining in his collegiate career.

Owens was a Top-50 prospect by Sports Illustrated/Takkle.com coming out of Muskogee High School. He was selected to both the U.S. Army and Parade All-America Teams, and he was named all-state by both The Oklahoman and The Tulsa World his senior year. Owens was a four-year starter at MHS, and during his career he hauled in 167 passes for 3,444 and 45 TD's.

At OU, Owens played nine games as a freshman. He caught two passes against both Chattanooga and Baylor, and had a season-long 15-yard reception against Chattanooga.

"I'm adjusting well to the offense here because I played in a similar style at Oklahoma," Owens said. "Playing there helped me learn this type of offense and I know I have to be on my toes all the time. There's no time for thinking, and I just have to know what to do at all times if I'm going to compete for a starting spot this year."

Tulsa opens the 2010 season at defending Conference USA Champion East Carolina on Sunday, September 5th on ESPN 2. Tulsa will open the home season against Bowling Green on Sept. 11th. Season tickets are available at www.TulsaHurricane.com or by calling 918.631.GoTU (4688).

More about Jameel Owens

Favorite Movie: Friday

Favorite TV Show: House of Pain

Favorite NFL Player: Larry Fitzgerald

Game Show I want to be on: Dancing with the Stars

Biggest Fear: Losing my Mom

If I Won $1 Million I Would: Give back to those who gave to me

My Biggest Superstition: I pray before, during and after every game.

My Best Non-Athletic Talent: Making people smile

My Advice to Youngsters is: Don't let someone tell you you're not good enough