Houston's King to redshirt rest of season and return in 2020
Houston quarterback D'Eriq King will sit out the rest of the season, taking a redshirt year while remaining eligible in 2020 as a fifth-year senior.
"I came here to play football for the University of Houston and that is not changing," he said on Monday in a statement. "After carefully thinking through this process with my family and coach (Dana) Holgorsen, I have decided the opportunity to redshirt this season gives me the best chance to develop as a player, earn my degree, and set me up for the best success in the future. I'm looking forward to being a part of the success of this program going forward."
The NCAA approved a new rule before the 2018 season that allows players to redshirt if they play fewer than five games. Most players taking advantage of the rule have done so after losing playing time or being sidelined by an injury. Neither situation applies to King.
King has been one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in the country since taking over Houston's starting job late in the 2017 season. He's less than a week removed from posting his 15th straight game with both a passing and rushing touchdown, breaking Tim Tebow's FBS record.
In four appearances this season for the 1-3 Cougars, King threw for 663 yards with six touchdowns and two interceptions, adding six scores on the ground.
Before King clarified his intention to remain at Houston, his father told Mark Berman of Fox 26 that his son is leaving and will transfer for his final season of eligibility.
"It's the best decision for him at this point," Eric King said. "Very, very tough (decision). He's got a lot of teammates riding on him. Sometimes you got to be a little self-centered and do what's best for you.
"You have to do what's in your best interest. As a family, me, D'Eriq, and his mom, we decided that's the best thing for him to do right now."
King could still test the transfer portal if he changes his mind about returning to the Cougars. Sophomore Clayton Tune will likely take over as Houston's starting pivot the rest of the year.
Wide receiver Keith Corbin will also redshirt and return to Houston for his final year in 2020. The Beaumont, Texas native has recorded 192 receiving yards and two touchdowns this year.