Chadd's Blog — Dec. 29, 2006 | Idaho Statesman

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. — Oklahoma senior defensive end C.J. Ah You, an All-Big 12 first-teamer, took a recruiting trip to Boise State two years ago.

Ah-You transferred to Oklahoma from Snow College in Utah. He also played at BYU.

His recruiting visits out of junior college were to BSU, Kansas and Oklahoma. Former Broncos defensive lineman Alex Guerrero served as his host in Boise.

"It was a nice place," Ah You said. "They showed me a good time. I was just trying to see what best suited me. I enjoyed all my trips."

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The Broncos say Wednesday's sloppy practice served its purpose — knocking off the rust.

Play improved Thursday, they said. The Broncos held a closed practice Friday.

"You look at (Thursday's) practice compared to the first practice, 100 percent turnaround," tailback Ian Johnson said. "The heart and the energy were there the first day, but it just wasn't as crisp as (Thursday). It was a good, physical practice. You can just count on us getting better each practice and peaking for the game."

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Sixty-seven Broncos are expected to attend the Insight Bowl tonight at Sun Devil Stadium. The game features Minnesota and Texas Tech.

Minnesota safety Duran Cooley is a former Bronco. Cooley is listed as a starter for the bowl game after starting three games late in the season.

Cooley, who was with BSU from August 2003 to August 2005, made 37 tackles and an interception this season.

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Here's what to expect in tomorrow's edition of the Idaho Statesman:

• A feature on Oklahoma quarterback Paul Thompson, who was a wide receiver until early August. He held together the Sooners' offense.

"I really don‚t know where we would be if he hadn't stepped in," Oklahoma wide receiver Malcolm Kelly said. "You want to talk about a team player. He was on the verge of starting at wide receiver."

• Columnist Brian Murphy writes about the evolution of the Boise State football program.

• A feature on Boise State cornerback Kyle Wilson, who has made a huge impact as a redshirt freshman.

"He‚s a hell of a competitor," BSU defensive coordinator Justin Wilcox said. "He hates to lose. No. 1, thats what makes him a good player."

• A feature on the Oklahoma offensive line.

• Quick profiles of BSU fullback Brad Lau and Oklahoma kicker Garrett Hartley.

• Plus a couple of stories about Boise State fans.