James Franklin was 19 of 35 for 214 yards passing for the Tigers (2-3)
2012 OUTLOOK
Versatile talent who has an exciting combination of size, speed and athletic ability that he'll look to bring to the field ... Opens spring camp listed at No. 2 on the depth chart at the weakside linebacker spot, behind returning starter Zaviar Gooden ... (Last name is pronounced RUE-iss)...
2011 SEASON
Got accustomed to the college game, as he saw action in reserve fashion in 12 games, getting credit for a pair of tackles in all ... Closed spring camp by making 3 tackles and breaking up 2 passes in the Black & Gold Game...
2010 SEASON
Made big impressions throughout the year with his play and work ethic while taking a redshirt in his first year as a Tiger ... Earned the team's defensive back-up player of the week award for his work leading up to the season opener against Illinois.
HIGH SCHOOL
Ranked by Rivals.com as one of the top-100 talents to come out of the talent-rich state of Florida, and also as nation's No. 70 overall athlete prospect ... Was a two-way standout for Baker County, playing quarterback and safety primarily ... Helped lead his squad to a district championship in a sudden-death tiebreaker playoff system ... Won numerous regional and statewide awards for his play as a senior in 2009, which included over 600 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns and 4 receiving touchdowns on offense, to go with 3 interceptions playing on defense ... As a junior, had 5 interceptions and added 93 tackles, while contributing offensively with over 600 yards and 8 touchdowns on the ground ... High school coach - Bobby Johns.
PERSONAL
Parents - Chris Okeibunor & Marie Ruise ... Interested in studying in Mizzou's School of Business ... Lists hobbies as music, hunting and playing musical instruments ... Chose Mizzou over Tennessee, Georgia Tech, South Carolina and East Carolina, among others, and was very impressed with the family atmosphere, as well as the student support at Tiger games as things which stood out about his choosing MU.
