For the better part of his Division I football career, Ki-Jana Carter, Penn State's tailback, has delighted thousands of Nittany Lion fans with his athletic ability and off-field persona.

After establishing himself as Coach Joe Paterno's No. 1 tailback this season, Carter blossomed into one of college football's most talented backs. He was the Heisman Trophy runner-up, earning consensus All-America honors as well.

And with a year of eligibility remaining, Carter was primed for another stellar season in Happy Valley.

But yesterday, Carter decided to take his game -- a blend of power and grace -- to the National Football League.

"After extensive thoughts with my family, my friends, Coach Paterno and a lot of other people in the University," Carter said, "I've decided to waive my fifth year of eligibility at Penn State and petition for the NFL draft."

Last fall, there was speculation surrounding Carter's future in a Penn State uniform after the 1994 season concluded. As the season progressed, it became more apparent that Carter was leaning toward turning professional.

Growing up in Westerville, Ohio, a suburb of Columbus, Carter dreamed of one day getting the opportunity to play in the NFL.

"I've finally made it," he said. "I just want to make it in the NFL. I don't care where I get drafted at."

"Hopefully, God bless me, I can show everybody what I have," he added.

The 5-foot-10-inch, 219-pound tailback stated many factors that led to his decision. Most importantly, Carter said he wanted to provide his family with the financial security an NFL contract would bring.

"My mom has worked so hard to provide for me and my little brother (Nathan) that I don't want her to work anymore," Carter said. "God blessed me with some money . . . I'm gonna take care of her so she can retire and do what she wants."

With that comment, Kathy Carter looked at her son and then rolled her eyes.

"Thank you, God," she said.

But before he leaves the University, Carter must fulfill a promise he once made to his mother -- to graduate. Right now, he only needs 20 credit hours to complete his degree requirements. Carter said 15 of those credits should be completed after Spring Semester, with the remaining five to be completed during Intersession.

Carter also said his move to the NFL gives Penn State's other tailbacks -- specifically Mike Archie and Stephen Pitts -- a chance to shine next season. Archie and Pitts played second fiddle to Carter, who garnered numerous accolades this season.

When asked to recall his fondest memory at Penn State, Carter became emotional.

"There are so many memories here," he said, fighting back tears. "There hasn't been one perfect one. They've all been good."

This past season, Carter provided Penn State fans with a lot of memories. The senior rushed for 1,539 yards, scoring 23 touchdowns along the way. He gained an average of 7.8 yards each time he touched the ball.

"The kid amazes me," Lion backup quarterback Mike McQueary said earlier this season. "When you watch Ki-Jana run, it doesn't even look like he is trying, yet you know he is so fast. He just flows like he's running on air."

In the 81st Rose Bowl game on Jan. 2, Carter showcased his running ability in front of a worldwide audience. He amassed 156 yards on 21 carries and scored three touchdowns -- a Penn State bowl record. On the Nittany Lions' first play from scrimmage, Carter scored on an 83-yard run. For his efforts, he was named co-most valuable player with Oregon's Danny O'Neil.

"He's made a great contribution to this institution," Paterno said, "not only because he was such a good football player but the way he handled himself. "He was never bigger than the program. He was always a guy who was a delight to coach. I'm gonna miss him not only as a player but as a person," Paterno said.