Purdue QB Austin Appleby transferring to Florida

Jan 5, 2016 - 5:33 AM GAINESVILLE, Fla. (AP) Purdue quarterback Austin Appleby is transferring to Florida.

A fourth-year junior who graduated last month, Appleby announced his intentions on his Twitter page Monday. He would be eligible to play for the Gators next season under the NCAA's graduate-transfer rule.

''It is now time for me to turn the page and begin a new chapter in my life,'' Appleby tweeted. ''I have made a decision to continue my college career at the University of Florida. I am very excited about this opportunity and all the great things that are in store for Gator Nation!''

Appleby played in five games this season, completing 57.5 percent of his passes for 1,260 yards with eight touchdowns and eight interceptions. He started the first three games before getting benched in favor of redshirt freshman David Blough. Appleby regained the starting job in the season finale because Blough was sidelined with a concussion.

Appleby also started the final seven games in 2014. The 6-foot-5, 239-pound North Canton, Ohio, native, has thrown for 2,777 yards, with 19 touchdowns and 19 interceptions in three seasons. He also has 290 yards rushing and nine scores.

''I have lived my dream to be a Big Ten quarterback along with earning my degree from one of the most prestigious universities in the world,'' Appleby tweeted. ''What I have experienced and the relationships I have established will influence me the rest of my life. I am forever grateful for the opportunities I had as a Boilermaker.''

Appleby is expected to compete with Treon Harris and former Alabama and Oregon State quarterback Luke Del Rio for the starting job. The Gators also have freshmen Feleipe Franks and Kyle Trask on campus. They are expected to take part in spring practice and also could be in the mix.

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