Texas A&M QB Long to transfer to Sam Houston

COLLEGE STATION, Texas (AP) -- Texas A&M quarterback Dustin Long, who lost the starting job to Reggie McNeal last season, will transfer to Sam Houston State University for his senior season.

"This decision is based solely on playing time," Long said in a statement Friday. "I have an opportunity to maximize my playing time as a senior at Sam Houston State."

As a sophomore in 2001, Long set school records for single game passing yards (399 against Kansas) and with seven touchdown passes against Texas Tech. But he was replaced last season by McNeal.

Long completed 63 of 104 passes for 709 yards for the season.

"I have a lot of admiration and respect and good feelings for him and we all wish him well," A&M coach Dennis Franchione said.

Long had his best game of the season in a 45-22 loss to Missouri, complete 23 of 29 passes for 252 yards and he started the final game of the season against the Texas Longhorns.

Still, he decided to move on.

"Texas A&M is a great school and I've enjoyed my time here," Long said. "My decision is based simply on what I think is best for me. It has nothing to do with coach Fran or the coaching staff here at A&M."