Kenny D. Sims News

It was just two weeks and one day ago when players for the University of Tulsa ran across the field in jubilation after Patrick Fitzgerald kicked the game-winning field goal in overtime against Memphis.

Recruiting base: One reason Kevin Sumlin left Bob Stoops' University of Oklahoma coaching staff to become Houston's head coach is the fertile recruiting region he inherited.

Rocky start: Once again, pass protection wasn't the Hurricane's strong suit in the first half.

Tulsa's Bryan isn't satisfied with playing the No. 5 team close. Boise State's Tommy Gallarda holds on to his touchdown catch over TU's Kenny D. Sims and John Destin.

There's little room for error in this year's Conference USA football race. Tulsa lost only one league game in 2008 and still needed help from Rice on the final weekend to capture the C-USA West title.

Four more players made their first Hurricane starts Saturday as the coaching staff dealt with injury issues.

Todd Graham has been on the winning sideline during the past six games between Tulsa and Rice .

So how much did Tulsa need Saturday night's dominating 56-3 victory over Sam Houston State? "This game was very important," said free safety Kenny D. Sims.

Tulsa's defense regained its confidence in Saturday's 56-3 win over Sam Houston State, and never mind that the Bearkats represented a step down in competition.

Three lettermen return at the cornerback position this season - seniors Kenny D. Sims and John Destin and sophomore John Flanders.