After the game, Striker said that Tennessee coach Butch Jones told him “you’re a hell of a player, but have some damn class.”

Stoops said he “didn’t know” what that was about and wouldn’t comment. “I like Butch a lot,” Stoops said. “I think he’s an excellent coach. I respect Butch a lot.” But Stoops also said he had never said anything negative to an opposing player.

My take? Stoops likely is livid if Jones addressed Striker in such a manner. And Stoops probably is not happy with Striker, who for no good reason was holding court with Tennessee fans. It’s not like there wasn’t anything else to do. On the field were some of the most animated celebrations in recent Sooner history. Why waste time talking smack with opposing fans?

As for Byrd shooting the bird, a rap on the knuckles probably is warranted. Striker is a repeat offender, but this is the first such incident that we know of concerning Byrd. He might have just lost his head. It happens. Make sure he knows it can’t happen again and move on.