Tue Jan 8 17:18:30 2008

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Rutgers RB Rice declares for draft

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Piscataway, NJ (Sports Network) - All-American running back Ray Rice announced Tuesday he will skip his senior season, and enter the NFL Draft.

This past season, Rice became the first player in Rutgers and Big East Conference history to rush for 2,000 yards in a season with 2,012. He ran for 280 yards and scored four touchdowns in a 52-30 win over Ball State in the International Bowl Saturday.

"I have always dreamed of playing in the NFL, and I felt the time is right to pursue the opportunity to play at the next level," said Rice.

In his three seasons, the Scarlet Knights were 26-12 and made three straight bowl appearances, winning the last two.

"I am very happy for Ray and his family," said Rutgers coach Greg Schiano. "He has been one of the elite players in college football during his career at Rutgers. Although we will miss him greatly, we all look forward to watching him play on Sundays."

Rice leaves Rutgers as the school's all-time leader in many categories, including career rushing yards (4,926), career rushing touchdowns (49) and yards rushing in a season (2,012) and game (280). He was named to the The Associated Press' All-American second team as a sophomore and junior.