Former Gophers QB picks Rutgers

Published 8:47 am Thursday, January 30, 2014

MINNEAPOLIS — Former Minnesota quarterback Philip Nelson has decided to transfer to Rutgers.

The sophomore’s father, Pat Nelson, told both Twin Cities newspapers Wednesday that his son will enroll at the New Jersey school after visiting there Sunday and Monday. Nelson announced two weeks ago his intent to leave the Gophers after two years, preferring a program with more of an emphasis on the passing game.

Nelson attempted more than 24 passes in a game only once, in 2012 against Michigan.

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Nelson will have to redshirt the 2014 season but will have two years of eligibility remaining after that. Rutgers becomes a Big Ten member this summer, and the Scarlet Knights are scheduled to play at Minnesota on Oct. 22, 2016, when Nelson would be a senior.