Jan. 15, 2005
SportsLine.com wire reports

MINNEAPOLIS -- Minnesota running back Marion Barber III announced Saturday that he will enter the NFL Draft, giving up his final season of eligibility.

Barber, the school's third-leading career rusher with 3,276 yards, has gained more than 1,000 yards each of the past two seasons. He and Laurence Maroney became the first teammates in Division I-A history to each rush for 1,000 yards in back-to-back seasons.

Barber finished with 1,269 yards rushing with 11 touchdowns this past season.

Before the Gophers played in the Music City Bowl three weeks ago, Barber said he would return in 2005. He then rushed for 187 yards in Minnesota's 20-16 win over Alabama and won the MVP award.

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