Minnesota’s Philip Nelson to Transfer to Rutgers

Dec 27, 2013; Houston, TX, USA; Minnesota Golden Gophers quarterback Philip Nelson (9) calls a play at the line of scrimmage during the first quarter of the Texas Bowl against the Syracuse Orange at Reliant Stadium . Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

Just days after signing new offensive coordinator Ralph Friedgen, Rutgers have picked up a shiny new toy for him to play it in Minnesota transfer Philip Nelson, according to CBS. After some deliberation, Nelson plumped for the Scarlet Knights, citing an offense that suits his skills as a passer.

Nelson was a regular starter for the Golden Gophers over the last 2 years, starting 16 games, but he never had a complete hold on the starting job last season as he split time with redshirt freshman Mitch Leidner. With his grasp on the starting job tenuous at best going into 2014, Nelson decided transferring was the best option.

Nelson will have to sit out next season due to the transfer rule, but it will give him an extra season to get accustomed to the new offensive system. His knowledge of Big Ten opponents will certainly stand in his favor in 2015.

To date, Nelson has completed 169 of 338 passes (50%) for 2179 yards and 17 TDs, with 14 interceptions. He has also rushed for 548 yards and 6 TDs on 162 carries.

Leidner will be the most experienced quarterback left on the Minnesota roster next season.