Sooners picked to be Number 1 in Sports Illustrated

(Norman-AP) -- The Oklahoma Sooners are hoping they won't be victims of the Sports Illustrated jinx. <br><br>The magazine's preseason edition is set to come out later this week and S-I has picked

Wednesday, August 7th 2002, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

(Norman-AP) -- The Oklahoma Sooners are hoping they won't be victims of the Sports Illustrated jinx.

The magazine's preseason edition is set to come out later this week and S-I has picked the Sooners number one.

Coach Bob Stoops says he isn't concerned about the supposed jinx and thinks the publicity is great for his program.

O-U is followed in S-I's top ten by defending national champion Miami. Big 12 counterpart Texas is ranked fourth while Colorado is sixth.

Meanwhile, with the second day of newcomer workouts wrapping up the Sooners announced the addition of another kicker. The total number of kickers has climbed to four after walk-on Matt Fannuzzi joined the squad.

...Also, Oklahoma football fans will have a chance to meet players and coaches at OU's Fan Appreciation Day.

Thursday's event will last from 10:30 until noon on the practice fields south of Memorial Stadium. Fans must enter through the southeast gate on Jenkins Avenue.

Fans will be limited to one autograph per player or coach. In case of rain, the event will be moved under the stands on the west side of the stadium.