NOTEBOOK : Financially, Aztecs Likely Successful

ANAHEIM — Tulsa’s Ron Jackson quickly became an unlikely hero during Tulsa’s 28-17 victory over San Diego State in the Freedom Bowl Monday night.

Subbing for Chris Hughley, the nation’s fifth-leading rusher who was suspended for academic reasons, Jackson set a Freedom Bowl record with 46 carries. He gained 211 yards.

“The week before the game, I was nervous and didn’t eat much,” Jackson said. “I was expecting to carry the ball 30 times. I’ve never carried the ball this much before. This is definitely the best game of my career.”