Earlier this week, Ohio State center Brian Bobek hinted that he could be leaning to either a Big Ten or Big 12 school — the latter was believed to be West Virginia — as a possible destination for transfer.
Saturday, Bobek put all speculation to rest. And, indeed, he will be transferring within the Big Ten conference.
Bobek confirmed to multiple media outlets that he will be moving on to Minnesota to finish his final two years of eligibility. To satisfy NCAA rules, Bobek will sit out the 2012 season.
Here’s what Bobek said to the paper via a statement:
“I am excited to announce that I have given my commitment to Coaches Kill and Limegrover are exceptional coaches, and I am confident they and the rest of the staff are on the way to restoring the winning tradition of the Minnesota football program. I look forward to making a contribution to Minnesota football and, once eligible, having an opportunity to achieve my personal goals as a football player.to announce that I have given my commitment to Coaches Jerry Kill and Matt Limegrover to join the University of Minnesota football program. Minnesota was one of the first schools my family and I had contacted when I made the decision to transfer, and the coaches responded as soon as they got permission from Ohio State to contact me.
“The University of Minnesota offers a quality education, and I hope to take advantage of the many opportunities of going to school in a great city like Minneapolis. Also, my family and I are happy for me to have the chance to continue to compete in the Big Ten, one of the best football conferences in the country.
“I once again want to thank the athletic department and football program at The Ohio State University for their consideration and assistance in easing my transition to the University of Minnesota and the Minnesota Golden Gopher football program.
“Go Gophers!”
Bobek was a four-star member of the Buckeyes’ 2011 recruiting class and played sparingly last season. With the departure of Michael Brewster, Bobek was expected to move into a starting role under first-year coach Urban Meyer. However, Bobek was not listed on the team’s most recent two-deep heading into voluntary summer workouts.
I guess Urban’s offense is not a good fit for some of players from the former regime. I hope the kid made a wise choice.
That’s a shame. Wish he’d wanted to be a Mountaineer. Can’t blame him though, at least he went to another top-tier football program. What? He chose Minnesota?
Nice pick up for the program and a great confirmation of Coach Kill. Congratulations to all involved.
Rah, Rah, Ska U Mah
I guess if he didnt even make the 2 deep chart for Urban Meyer, then he is JUST right for W.va or Minnesota.