Risk of injury won't slow Peterson

Risk of injury won't slow Peterson

NORMAN, Okla. – Oklahoma running back Adrian Peterson will sit down with coach Bob Stoops before the Christmas break and discuss his future.

If the junior decides to declare for the NFL draft, Adrian Peterson could be risking millions of dollars by playing in the Tostitos Fiesta Bowl against No. 9 Boise State.
But Adrian Peterson said Wednesday he isn't worried about injuring his collarbone again. He just wants back on the field to try and become OU's all-time rushing leader. Adrian Peterson needs 151 yards to break Billy Sims' mark of 4,118 yards set from 1975 through 1979.

"I've been playing the game since I was 7," Adrian Peterson said. "A lot of guys speculate and say that I'm not coming back or why should he play? But I love the game. That's why I play. I love the game, I love the guys that I play with.

"God's decided for me to be back out there, so I'm just ready to get back in the groove and play."

Adrian Peterson has not spoken publicly since the week after breaking his collarbone on Oct. 14. He dove into the end zone on a 53-yard touchdown run against Iowa State and knew something was wrong.

It's widely assumed that Adrian Peterson will declare for the NFL draft. So why would a player with a history of health issues (separated shoulder, sprained ankle and broken collarbone) who could become a top-10 pick put that in jeopardy?

"There are a lot of good reasons why these guys want to finish their careers and years and play," Stoops said.
Adrian Peterson said he's heard different points of view from almost everyone imaginable.

"When it boils down to it, it's my decision and what I feel like is best for me," Adrian Peterson said. "I really don't let outside things influence my decision. I'm the one that's going to have to live with it."

Stoops has already indicated Adrian Peterson will start against Boise State. That would relegate Allen Patrick to a backup role. Patrick started seven games in Adrian Peterson's absence, and his play was a major reason OU is even in the Fiesta Bowl.

Patrick didn't seem fazed at the idea that his carries will decrease so Adrian Peterson can play and possibly get Sims' record.

"I'm looking forward to seeing him break the records and put on a show for everybody," Patrick said.

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