Trace Ford Explains Transfer to Rival Sooners: ‘I’ve Always Liked OU’

Trace Ford’s decision to transfer from Oklahoma State to Oklahoma darn near broke the internet locally and sent folks into temper tantrums as he crossed the line of the in-state rivalry. But speaking extensively about it this week, Ford explained why he did what he did and made clear it came down to two things: business and family.

“I like the culture here,” said Ford. “It’s like the Clemson culture; it’s very family-oriented. That’s what I’m all about.

“I looked at the facts, not the emotions, and I saw where I’d be the best fit [at OU],” he continued. “I thought this was the place for me.”

This is where ya gotta close your ears if you’re an OSU, because business and family are nice reasons, but Ford gave a little peek behind the curtain as to some other motives, too. Including . . .

“I grew up coming to Oklahoma games. . . I’ve always liked OU, so I just went with it,” he said.

Ford leaves as an OSU grad but leaves for Norman where he will play out the string of eligibility for the Sooners under Brent Venables. That will include, of course, the final Bedlam game in Stillwater with both OU and OSU in the same conference. And you know Ford has already circled that date.

“Walking into Stillwater and playing [OSU], I’m very excited about that day,” he said.