Shortell’s camp distances themselves from transferring Barker

Oct 1, 2011; Ann Arbor, MI, USA; Minnesota Golden Gophers offensive listens to quarterback Max Shortell (11) during a huddle in the first half against the Michigan Wolverines at Michigan Stadium. Michigan won 58-0. Mandatory Credit: Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports

The news of sophomore quarterback Max Shortell’s intention to transfer from the University of Minnesota is the second notable transfer this season, following former wide receiver A.J. Barker’s public announcement via social media.

Shortell’s departure was conducted with class, but anything is in contrast to Barker’s method publicly shaming the football program and igniting a public relations frenzy within the athletic department.

Shortell’s father, Tom, made it clear to Star Tribune’s Phil Miller, that Shortell did not have any bad experiences with the football program and coach Jerry Kill.

“I just want people to know, Max absolutely loved it there. The city, the university, the people there, his teammates, his coaches — he had a great experience,” Tom Shortell told Miller. “Coach [Jerry] Kill is a great guy, and he was always very supportive of Max…he tried to talk Max out of transferring. I know Max really wishes it had worked out there.”

Tom would acknowledge that his son’s departure from the school is not in anyway related to the departure of Barker, who is more or less an outcast of the football program following accusations and tough words for Kill.

It was smart of Shortell’s father to put out any speculation of collusion before it had a chance to develop into a rumor — three of Barker’s touchdowns this year have come on Shortell’s passes — so forget any scenario where the former Gopher quarterback and receiver hook up at another school. (Side note: we’d be crazy if we saw Max “Red Rocket” Shortell in a badgers uniform two seasons from now?)

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