Trophy News from TAHLEQUAH, Oklahoma……
Bradford Wins Heisman Trophy

Cherokee citizen and University of Oklahoma Sooners quarterback Sam Bradford became the first Native American, fifth Sooner and 74th player to receive the coveted Heisman Trophy Dec. 13 in New York City.
Bradford beat out fellow quarterbacks Colt McCoy of Texas and 2008 Heisman winner Tim Tebow of Florida for the bronze statue. He garnered 1,726 points for the win, with McCoy placing second at 1,604 points and Tebow third with 1,575 points.
“Wow, I really don’t think I can put it into words. It’s kind of a surreal experience,” Bradford said moments after winning.
But as usual, he was quick to give credit to family and coaches.
“I would like to thank my parents. From a young age they pushed me for greatness. They instilled a hard work ethic in me,” Bradford said. “I’ve got to thank my coaches. Coach (Bob) Stoops probably puts in more hours than any coach in the country. I’ve got to give a special thanks to coach (Josh) Heupel. He was one of my heroes growing up. I dreamed about playing for Oklahoma and watching him play. Now to call him my coach and learn from him everyday and everything he does for me, I can’t thank him enough.”
He also thanked his teammates, who helped him post the gaudy statistics to win the award.
“I was surrounded by such a strong supporting cast. I feel like I’m up here representing them,” Bradford said. “This is an individual award, but I feel like I’m receiving it on behalf of them.”
With his teammates’ help, Bradford has put together a record-breaking season. He has attempted 442 passes, completing 302 for a 68.3 completion percentage. He has thrown for 4,464 yards and 48 touchdowns and is the triggerman for an offense that has scored a NCAA-record 702 points. The team has also scored 60 or more points in five straight games.
Bradford is the second sophomore in NCAA history to win the award – following Tebow – and the second Sooner in five years to win the Heisman. Former Sooners quarterback Jason White won it in 2003. (more…)