Nelson leaving U football team

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Minnesota quarterback Philip Nelson says he intends to transfer to another school that runs an offense "that centers more around the passing game."

The sophomore made the surprise announcement Thursday when he first released the statement to KFXN-FM in Minneapolis. Nelson completed 50.5 percent of his passes for 1,306 yards with nine touchdowns and six interceptions last season. He also rushed for 364 yards and six touchdowns while sharing quarterback duties with Mitch Leidner.

Nelson played poorly in the Texas Bowl loss to Syracuse, going just 2 for 7 for 18 yards.

Golden Gophers coach Jerry Kill released this statement:

" Philip is a terrific young man, and I wish him all the best as he continues his education and football career elsewhere,” said Kill, who is on the road recruiting. “I want to thank Philip for the contributions he made to our football program both on and off the field, and I will do anything I can to help him both now and in the future.”