Bradford Gets Nod at Quarterback For Sooners

August 21, 2007 by CFP Staff and SoonerSports.com

Sam Bradford has been tabbed for the starting quarterback job at Oklahoma. OU head coach Bob Stoops made the announcement Tuesday.

Stoops said the decision was actually made Sunday and that Bradford took snaps with the first team during Monday's practice.

Bradford, a redshirt freshman from Oklahoma City, emerged from a battle with Joey Halzle, a junior, and Keith Nichol, a true freshman.

"We feel very good about all three of those guys," Stoops said. "All three have made great improvement and contributed a lot to our program.

"We are going with Sam because he earned the position. We expect both Joey and Keith to continue working hard and competing for playing time just like all our players do at every position. There may be an opportunity for them at some point and it will be important for them to be ready."

Bradford, the son of former Sooner offensive lineman Kent Bradford, redshirted at OU last season. During his prep career at Putnam City North High School he was an all-state selection after throwing for 2,422 yards and 19 touchdowns in his senior season.

Bradford also was a standout for the PC North basketball and golf teams.

Oklahoma opens the 2007 season Sept. 1 when it hosts North Texas. Kickoff is set for 6 p.m., and the game is sold out.