USU has had several fine quarterbacks, including Eric Hipple, who started 57 games in the NFL; Bob Gagliano, who played in Kansas City, San Francisco, Detroit and San Diego; and Anthony Calvillo, who became a star in the CFL.

But the move to Provo is understandable, especially for a quarterback. BYU is a high-profile passing program, one NFL scouts closely monitor. Nelson will be surrounded by more talent than in Logan.

Then there are the religious aspects. LDS missionaries often feel a kinship to BYU, which is owned and operated by the LDS Church. Missionaries regularly reference BYU football when they're in the field; they seldom talk about USU.

Not that Nelson is the first important Aggie to transfer to BYU. James Dye, a shifty-fast return man, jumped to BYU in 1995 and became a two-year all-conference selection. Linebacker Kelly Poppinga moved to Provo for the 2006 and 2007 seasons, earning second-team all-MWC honors.

Barring unforeseen events, Max Hall will be BYU's starter for the next two years. Still, Nelson's transfer is one terrific gut-punch for USU. It sends a message the school can't even keep its most loyal sons. At least not those who have options.

BYU didn't just take the Aggies' quarterback of the future, it took their spirit.

Considering BYU has won 24 of the last 27 against USU, maybe that happened long ago.

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E-mail: rock@desnews.com