OU’s Joe Mixon answers only football-related questions at media day

Reporters at Orange Bowl media day were told that if they attempted to ask Mixon about the incident or any non-football questions, they would be asked to leave.

Oklahoma running back Joe Mixon addressed the media Tuesday for the first time as a member of the Sooner football team. 

Mixon arrived at the school before the start of the 2014 season. However, the running back was suspended for the entirety of the 2014 season after being investigated for allegedly assaulting an Oklahoma female student at a restaurant near Oklahoma’s campus.

During the Orange Bowl’s media day, Mixon announced that he was only there to answer football questions and had no interest in discussing anything other than the sport, including his suspension. 

In October, Mixon entered an Alford plea to a misdemeanor assault charge. He agreed to perform 100 hours of community service and undergo cognitive behavior counseling. He was also given a one-year deferred sentence.

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Mixon was reinstated to the football team this season. He was made available on media day because, according to College Football Playoff rules, each player on a team’s roster must be made available for questions at that time.

When asked if he felt that he had alienated female fans with his actions, Mixon requested the next question. He also added that when the situation is addressed to the media, his lawyer will be the one to do it.

Reporters were told that if they attempted to ask Mixon about the incident or any non-football questions, they would be asked to leave.

Mixon is Oklahoma’s second leading rusher this season with an average of 6.8 yards per carry. He has rushed for 749 yards and seven touchdowns this season.

The Sooners will take on undefeated Clemson in the Orange Bowl on Thursday.

- Xandria James