“After a great deal of deliberation, I have decided to remain at Ohio State for 2008 to complete my degree and my football career.

“I don’t feel that I’ve accomplished everything I can accomplish in college football, and there’s still a lot for me to conquer and shoot for: the national championship, another Big Ten championship, the Thorpe Award. And I really look forward to the honors and perks associated with being a senior on this team.

“We have a great schedule next year, which should be a whole lot of fun. I’m on track to graduate next spring in communications, which will make my mom very happy.

“I have received a lot of good advice from coaches, friends and family and it has boiled down to one message: Figure out what’s important to you and follow your heart.

“My whole class is still here; we came in together and always planned on leaving at the same time. I’m just having fun right now and there are some things you can’t put a price on. I’m not sure I want to turn football into a career just yet.”