Barry Sanders Jr. will finish his college football career at his famous father's school.
The Stanford running back confirmed he will attend Oklahoma State in 2016 as a graduate transfer. The son of the former Detroit Lions great and Pro Football Hall of Famer has been a career reserve at Stanford, and did not figure to see significantly more playing time next year behind Heisman Trophy finalist Christian McCaffrey.
"They've got my full commitment and I'm looking forward to being there come late June," Sanders told The Oklahoman.
According to the report, Sanders still must complete Stanford graduation requirements, but expects to do so this summer. Sanders watched McCaffrey break his father's NCAA record for single-season all-purpose yards last year, which vaulted the sophomore into the national spotlight that will make him a Heisman favorite going into 2016.
Sanders indicated his father supports the decision.
"His message to me was to keep an open mind," Sanders said. "I think that he would have wanted me to look at more schools. He definitely didn't want me to make a decision without considering other options. What I told him was that this was something I've been thinking about for some time. I just knew this was the right decision and the right fit for a variety of different reasons. So when I kind of explained my reasons behind it, he was pretty comfortable with it and he's just as excited as I am."
As are the Cowboys. Despite reaching the Sugar Bowl, Oklahoma State's rushing attack lacked a consistent threat last season, one that Sanders could provide. No Oklahoma State rusher reached 600 yards last season, so Sanders is certainly entering a better opportunity for playing time.
*Follow Chase Goodbread on Twitter **@ChaseGoodbread*.
