OSU's Bobek to transfer to Gophers

Ohio State offensive lineman Brian Bobek is transferring to Minnesota, ESPN reported Saturday.

The 6-foot-2-inch, 275-pound Bobek will be ineligible to compete in 2012 because of Big Ten rules regarding transfers within the conference. He will have two years of eligibility starting in 2013.

Bobek praised Gophers head coach Jerry Kill and offensive coordinator Matt Limegrover in a statement announcing the transfer.

"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 said in the statement. "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."

A highly touted recruit, Bobek slipped to No. 3 on the Buckeyes' depth chart last season. But he will be much more likely to start for the Gophers, whose offensive line has struggled in recent years.