Backup quarterback Josh Skinner will transfer to Northern Colorado University along with Dylan Micus, the team's top receiver.

Defensive tackle Kasey Jackson, billed in the team's media guide as the strongest player on the team, will transfer to Dixie College in Utah.

UH coach Fred vonAppen says it's unfortunate that the players, especially Skinner, are choosing to leave, but he wishes them the best of luck.

The coach says Skinner was homesick to return to his native Colorado and was frustrated about the past season.

"That pretty much sums it up," Skinner said, adding that being closer to his family was a big part of his decision.

Micus also is a Colorado native and also wants to be closer to friends and family. He led the team with 27 catches for 366 yards.

"I just want to be happy," Micus said. "Things aren't getting changed. That has some bearing on my decision."

Jackson said he didn't see improved prospects for more playing time next season. "Things weren't working out too well for me," he said.

The coach said Jackson, the first Utah high school player to commit to UH in more than a decade, felt he should be playing more.

"His feeling was we didn't recognize his playing ability," vonAppen said. "In our estimation, he played commensurate with what his abilities were."