Oklahoma State University Athletics
Cowboys Complete Bowl Preparations
December 27, 2006 | Cowboy Football
The Cowboys meet the Alabama Crimson Tide 3:30 p.m. Thursday in a game that will be televised nationally by ESPN. The game will mark the first football matchup between the two schools and will mark the 31st playing of the Independence Bowl. The game was established in 1976 as part of the country's Bicentennial celebration.
"I just want to thank the people of Shreveport for the week," said Cowboy head coach Mike Gundy. Our players, staff and families have been treated great. We look forward to playing a team with the history and prestige of Alabama."
Earlier in the day, both teams attended the Minuteman Luncheon at the Shreveport Convention Center. The event was hosted by Tim Brando and Spencer Tillman. Gundy and interim Alabama head coach Joe Kines participated in a question-and-answer session, as did both quarterbacks (Bobby Reid of OSU and John Parker Wilson of Alabama). OSU defensive tackle Darnell Smith was honored for scholastic achievement during the event. Smith is a four-time academic all-Big 12 selection and a second-team selection to the ESPN The Magazine Academic All-America team.
Wednesday evening was to feature a pep rally and battle of the bands in downtown Shreveport.
The Cowboys are making their 17th bowl appearance and their fourth in five seasons. OSU is playing in the Independence Bowl for the second time and the first time since 1981.
