The story of 3 OU quarterbacks who stayed, prospered

NORMAN — Kid Nichol hit the road last week, ending his Oklahoma quarterback career before it ever really began, and dime-store analysis will say that modern phenoms just aren't patient or tough or willing to invest the time necessary for success.

Remember one thing. Just because it comes from the dime store — am I dating myself with that term? — doesn't mean it's not solid.

But truth is, football players have been seeking greener grass for going on a century. And those who stuck around didn't always do it because of allegiance to the old alma mater and the good raising they got from mom and pops.

Did Nichol make the right decision? No way of knowing, even if we could climb inside his head and heart. No way of knowing even four years from now, when the Kid's college script will be written.

And sometimes, the guys who did stick it out and became championship quarterbacks didn't endure because of patience. Three quick stories from Sooner QBs who we figured had every reason to transfer but didn't:

1. Paul Thompson. Tall Paul quarterbacked OU to the 2006 Big 12 title in his fifth season as a Sooner but his lone year as the starter.

Thompson said transferring never entered his mind, but not for the reason you think. PT stuck around because he always thought he was on the verge of starting.

As a freshman backing up Nate Hybl in 2002, and with Jason White's career in ravaged-knee jeopardy, Thompson figured he could have the job quickly.

"That's what kept me around,” Thompson said Sunday. "I always felt possibly next year.”

You know the rest. White came back, terrorized college football for two years, then when Thompson finally got his shot, in the 2005 season opener against TCU, disaster ensued, and Bob Stoops handed the job to Rhett Bomar.

With only one year left, Thompson decided to shift to flanker. Bomar's fall from NCAA grace gave Thompson another chance, and thus came the 2006 Big 12 title.

Thompson's take on Nichol?

"After Sam (Bradford) has the year he has, that's a big chunk of your future,” Thompson said. Now comes another tall drink of water, freshman