John Clay’s Sidelines

Oklahoma's Blake Griffin, who took an elbow to the face in win over Rice last week.

SEC links for Tuesday:

• Bob Holt of the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette writes that the Razorbacks are stepping up in class tonight to face No. 4 Oklahoma.
• In the Knoxville News-Sentinel, Wayne Chism plays a terrific game before being carried off on a stretcher in Tennessee’s win over Louisiana-Lafayette.
• Also in the News-Sentinel, John Adams writes that J.P. Prince’s return was a slam dunk.
• In the NW Arkansas Times, Nate Allen reports that Arkansas’ backup guard Jason Henry is out after knee surgery.
• Ian Rapoport of the Birmingham News reports that Alabama’s star offensive lineman Andre Smith has been suspended from Sugar Bowl for improper contact with an agent.
• Gentry Estes of the Huntsville Times writes on the Tide’s giant loss.
• In the Tuscaloosa News, Tommy Deas writes that even without Smith, Utah is not taking Bama lightly.
• Randy Rosetta of the Baton Rouge Advocate writes that from all appearances John Chavis will be LSU’s next defensive coordinator.
• Ron Morris of The State writes that having fun is supposed to be part of the bowl experience.
• Also in The State, Seth Emerson writes on a former Darrin Horn recruit who brings a twist to the South Carolina-Clemson hoops rivalry.
• Maurice Patton of the Tennessean writes that the Music City Bowl is leading Vandy’s D.J. Moore to a crossroads.
• Thomas Stinson of the AJC writes on the mystery that is Georgia running back Caleb King.
• Kevin Brockway of the Gainesville Sun writes on Chandler Parson’s bumpy ride.
• In the Montgomery Advertiser, Jay G. Tate reports that new Auburn offensive boss Gus Malzahn promises a different spread offense.