Offensive lineman Brian Bobek, who announced earlier this month that he would transfer from Ohio State, is headed to play for Minnesota.

Bobek on Saturday released a statement to several media outlets, including ESPN.com, confirming his move to the Gophers. Because of Big Ten rules about transferring between conference members, Bobek will lose a season of eligibility in 2012 as he sits out because of NCAA transfer rules. He will have two years of eligibility remaining beginning in 2013. Bobek will pay his own way this fall because Minnesota is at its scholarship maximum (85). He will be on scholarship with the Gophers beginning in January 2013.

Bobek says in his statement that Minnesota was one of the first schools to contact him when he announced his intention to transfer. Head coach Jerry Kill and offensive coordinator Matt Limegrover reached out after receiving permission from Ohio State.

"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," Bobek's statement reads. "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. 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."

Bobek played a bit as a freshman last season for the Buckeyes. A highly touted recruit, he had been projected as the successor to four-year starter Michael Brewster at center, but he slipped to No. 3 on the depth chart this spring.

The 6-foot-2, 275-pound Bobek is a good pickup for Minnesota, which is looking to upgrade depth on the offensive line and restore its reputation in the trenches.