OU running back Ford transferring

NORMAN, Okla. (AP) – Oklahoma running back Keith Ford is transferring.

A school spokesman confirmed Ford’s decision on Wednesday.

Ford was suspended indefinitely in March for academic and team rules violations. He was Oklahoma’s top rusher and one of the Sooners’ top receivers last season before he broke his right leg in the third game against Tennessee and missed the next five games.

Samaje Perine took over as the lead back and finished with 1,713 yards rushing and 21 touchdowns. Ford finished last season with 392 yards and five touchdowns rushing and 140 yards and another score receiving.

Ford would have had to compete with speedster Alex Ross and highly touted newcomers Joe Mixon and Rodney Anderson. Mixon, one of the nation’s top recruits last year, is available after a season-long suspension.