Talib honored

KU junior Aqib Talib was named Big 12 defensive player of the week on Monday for his work in the Jayhawks’ 43-28 victory over Oklahoma State on Saturday.

Talib had nine tackles, a pass breakup and a crucial interception with 7:23 left that sealed KU’s victory.

It was a good night for Talib to shine – a representative for the Jim Thorpe Award, given to college football’s best defensive back, was credentialed for Saturday’s game.

Rodgers wishing well

As one might expect, the Jayhawks’ recent success has former players and coaches excited about Kansas football. KU coach Mark Mangino received one such reminder Monday.

“John Hadl received a call from Pepper Rodgers forwarded to me about how excited he is for our team,” Mangino said. “He’s been following us.”

Rodgers coached at KU from 1967-70, taking the Jayhawks to the Orange Bowl in 1968. Hadl currently is an associate athletic director at KU.

Pep rally set

KU will play host to the KU Border Showdown Spirit Rally on Nov. 23 in Prairie Village, the night before Kansas is to play Missouri at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Mo.

The event will start at 7 p.m. at the Corinth Square parking lot at 83rd and Mission Road.

Senior captain Brandon McAnderson and former coach Don Fambrough, famous for his hatred of Missouri, are expected to appear.

The rally will be free of charge and feature a performance by local band Sellout.