Penn State has lost its second-string quarterback just weeks away from its Rose Bowl appearance.
Former backup signal caller Pat Devlin informed Joe Paterno of his intentions to transfer, according to a statement issued by the athletic department Wednesday night.
"[Devlin] will not participate with the team in the Rose Bowl," the statement read. "The Penn State football program wishes him well at his new school."
Devlin did not return calls Wednesday night, and his destination is unknown.
The redshirt sophomore quarterback battled current Nittany Lion starter Daryll Clark for the starting job before the start of this season. After Clark won the job, speculation swirled that Devlin, who holds numerous Pennsylvania high school passing records, would transfer.
Devlin denied these rumors, as did numerous sources close to him throughout the season. The quarterback's high school coach, Michael Matta, said earlier this season Devlin "is not a transfer guy."
After losing the chance to start the season, Devlin noted he had some difficulty at times accepting his role as a backup.
"It comes into your head now and then," Devlin said Aug. 30 about transferring. "But I love it here, and I think this is the place for me."
Numerous Penn State football players acknowledged "rumors" of Devlin's leaving.
Clark said he heard the speculation in the locker room on Wednesday afternoon.
Penn State wideout Graham Zug -- one of Devlin's roommates -- said he was unaware of his apartment-mate's intentions.
Reached by phone Wednesday night, Devlin's father, Mark Devlin, said, "I haven't heard from Pat."
Fifth-year senior Paul Cianciolo should assume back-up duties to Clark. In addition to Clark and Cianciolo, the Lions have only one other quarterback -- walk-on true freshman Matt McGloin -- listed on the roster.
McGloin was not listed on Penn State's most recent travel roster.
The Lions have only one quarterback on scholarship for next season and have not publicly received any verbal commitments from quarterback recruits.
Penn State quarterbacks coach Jay Paterno, other Penn State football coaches and Devlin's former high school coach could not be reached for comment on Devlin's decision.
Devlin's destination is not yet known, but Football Championship Subdivision schools could be possible options. By enrolling at an FCS school, Devlin could play immediately. If Devlin chooses a Football Bowl Subdivision school, he would have to sit out for a year because of NCAA rules.
Devlin saw action in 10 games this season and completed 25-of-47 passes for 459 yards, four touchdowns and no interceptions. His touchdown sneak with 6:25 to play against Ohio State was the go-ahead touchdown in Penn State's 13-6 win.
