Peterson says major injury would mean return to OU Sooner running back still wants national championship, Heisman Trophy and Billy Sims' rushing record
By Blake Jackson
Published: September 12, 2006
NORMAN — Adrian Peterson said Monday the only thing certain that would keep him at Oklahoma another season would be a major injury.
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The junior running back is looking to rush for 2,200 yards this season and shatter Billy Sims' OU record. He wants to win the Heisman Trophy. And he'd like another crack at the national title.
But Peterson said if doesn't accomplish those goals this season, he may never have another chance.
"My goals when I got here were win a national championship first and then have an opportunity to win the Heisman," Peterson said.
"Those are things I want to do, but the only thing right now I know for a fact that would keep me back next year is a major injury. God willing, that won't happen."
To anyone who has followed Peterson's career at OU, the possibility of the superstar leaving early should come as no surprise.
He rushed for a freshman NCAA-record 1,925 yards. He placed second in the Heisman voting — highest ever by a frosh — and was a consensus All-American. At the time, it seemed certain he would turn pro as soon as he was able.
But after an injury-riddled sophomore campaign, Peterson decided it best to return to Oklahoma for his junior year. Through two games he's gained 304 yards.
His 3,337 career yards rushing leave him 781 yards shy of Billy Sims' school record.
"Anything could happen," Peterson said. "I've just got to take it game by game. It's all going to depend on how I feel. The career rushing record. (Billy Sims') rushing record. Sometimes I think, ‘It's a once in a lifetime opportunity to do that. Once you leave, there's no coming back.'
"I've just got a lot to think about. It will be a hard decision."
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