Handshake with Dawgs? Oklahoma State coach not sure

The Associated Press

Coach Mike Gundy says he’s torn over whether Oklahoma State should shake hands with the Georgia Bulldogs before their opening game. In an attempt to promote sportsmanship, the American Football Coaches Association has requested that all teams shake hands with their opponents before their opening game. But Gundy fears such a gesture might result in a brawl.

Gundy said the ninth-ranked Cowboys will have about 110 players in uniform Saturday and Georgia will have another 70 and if something happens, “I don’t know that we could get it broke up before the game.”

The AFCA has encouraged every team to have its players shake hands on the field before the kickoff, although it is not mandatory. Coaches are required to shake hands before and after games.

Gundy says he has respect for the AFCA and executive director Grant Teaff, but he’s having trouble with the decision.

Gundy’s comments add to what’s been a week full of bad news in Stillwater. Starting cornerback Perrish Cox was arrested for driving on a suspended license late last week. On Monday, starting linebacker Orie Lemon tore an ACL, ending his season. On Tuesday Gundy announced that starting tight end Jamal Mosley had left the team for personal reasons. And now Gundy may have handed the Bulldogs a little extra motivation for what’s being called Oklahoma State’s biggest opening game ever. And it’s only Wednesday.