When an OU QB controversy would be a very good thing

Originally Published: Dec 17, 2009 8:54 PM CDT

OU is in the running for a big—literally and perhaps figuratively—JUCO QB. Cam Newton goes 6-6 by 245.  Newton is rated the No. 2 dual threat QB in the countfhplays at Blinn College in Texas and has become a priority for the OU staff. Wise move. Landry Jones may be the next Johnny Unitas—or Sam Bradford. However, the chances are much greater that his upside is to be a very good QB and probably not a true difference-maker.

So, instead of sitting back and stubbornly not recruiting another QB to come in and get into a spring competition for the starting QB position, Bob Stoops and Co. are dead serious about signing Newton. An inside source told me today, “he’s a really big guy who’s really good or we would not be going after him.”

OU likes the fact that Newton was reportedly the favorite to become the starter at Florida next season in the post-Tebow era. If that is indeed true, I say full-court press the guy. Coming in at semester gives the guy a legit shot at getting playing time?perhaps to even win the job. Minimally, Newton would be given an opportunity to compete for the job.

You are dead wrong if you think Stoops has any intention of sitting back after a five-loss season and hand any position to anyone. Much less the most important position on the field. He’s proven time and time again to live up to his promise of playing the best player, regardless of age, height, weight, relatives or political affiliation. He and the rest of his coaches want a QB who can get them back to the promised land. Sooner than later.

OU will have to hump it to get Newton. He’s also seriously considering Auburn and Mississippi State. Two years ago Auburn would not have had a sniff as their offense was stuck in the mud. But with a new head coach and OC and a revved up offensive philosophy, the Tigers will be tough to beat. After beating the Sooners on a top JUCO O-lineman yesterday is proof that the SEC school can whip the Big 12 power.

I believe that no underclassmen will leave early, although DE Jeremy Beale is still a possible early out and apparently so is  RB DeMarco Murray. I have it on good authority that Beale would be no higher than a third round pick and Murray would not go that high.  I believe the 2010 team will be better than a lot of spoiled fans and critical media expect. Ample talent returns and athletic youths are waiting in the wings.

Add a big-time QB and let’s see an authentic spring-time duel.

This is one time a good old-fashioned quarterback controversy would be a good thing.