CORVALLIS - Joe Rudulph left the Oregon State football program Tuesday after being suspended from the team for more than two weeks for on-the-field issues.

Coach Mike Riley would not comment further, but Rudulph said the parting was mutual and there are no hard feelings from either side.

Rudulph is a junior defensive end who would have seen significant playing time this season as a second-string player. He's a high-profile name due to his off-the-field problems.

"We both decided to go our separate ways," Rudulph said. "It's good for both of us to have a fresh start."

Rudulph had the option to stay on scholarship for the year, but he plans to transfer down to an NCAA Division I-AA program and play right away with two years of eligibility. He's two terms from graduating, and leaves OSU in good academic standing.

There are a few offers available, but he's leaning toward Sacramento State to be able to go back to his hometown.

"We both knew I had to keep playing," Rudulph said. "I can't give up on my dream. I have enough time to play somewhere."

Rudulph had a troubled time at OSU. It started in November 2004 when he was in the highly publicized Headline Cafe fight. Rudulph and three other underaged teammates were in the bar after hours when he hit a National Guardsman.

He spent five days in jail and served community service. Rudulph appeared sorry for the incident. However, he always had a temper, which was the root of his problems.

"It wasn't one thing, it was compilation of things," Rudulph said. "There was the Headline Cafe. It was forgiven, but not forgotten. Riley forgave me, but others didn't."

There was an incident in the spring, and Riley told Rudulph it was his last chance. Then there was another problem on the field this fall.

"It was minor for any other player but me," Rudulph said.

He said Riley took the two weeks of his suspension to think and consult with the other coaches. Rudulph wanted to stay on the team, but realized it wasn't going to work in the last meeting.

"I still love coach Riley and my team," Rudulph said. "I know he would be there for me if I need him outside of football. He's doesn't want to comment on this because it's a distraction this close to the season. They have a good chance to go to the Rose Bowl. He has a job to do now, and so do I."

By Cliff Kirkpatrick

For the Democrat-Herald