Bell leaving Nebraska, but denied transfer to Oregon State

Running back Greg Bell, who started three games for Nebraska this season, requested and was granted his release for the purpose of transferring. One thing unusual about the letter granting him his release is that he is not allowed to transfer to Oregon State. On Monday night, Bell announced his decision to leave via Twitter. "Thank you to Coach Frost The Support Staff And The Fan Base For The Opportunity. Forever thankful. I have decided to transfer. Considering all opportunities." He included a copy of his release letter. Included among the schools denied permission to talk to Bell about a possible transfer were all Big Ten school, all the nonconference teams Nebraska will face in the next three years, and Oregon State. Fifteen players, including Bell, have left Nebraska since Scott Frost took over, and three of them have transferred to Oregon State -- quarterback Tristan Gebbia, wide receiver Tyjon Lindsey and linebacker Avery Roberts. Former Nebraska linebackers coach Trent Bray is now linebackers coach at Oregon State, and Mike Riley, who was the Cornhuskers' head coach last season, is listed on the Oregon State staff as a football analyst. Bell rushed for 173 yards in five games for the 0-5 Cornhuskers this season, and that ranks third on the team. He had a big game in Nebraska's season opener, running for 104 yards in the loss to Colorado. The Omaha World-Herald reported that, starting Oct. 15, no NCAA institution can block athletes from transferring. The athlete will not even need to get a release; he simply must tell the school that he is leaving.