Iowa RB Marcus Coker leaves program

IOWA CITY, Iowa (AP) -- Suspended Iowa running back Marcus Coker is leaving the Hawkeyes after leading the team in rushing in 2011.

The school said Tuesday that Coker has asked for and been granted a release from his scholarship. It didn't disclose any details or reasons.

Coker rushed for 1,384 yards and 15 touchdowns as a sophomore last season. He was suspended last month for the Insight Bowl after violating the student-athlete code of conduct for unspecified behavior.

The move leaves Iowa thin at running back for 2012. Freshman Jordan Canzeri, who led the team with 58 yards rushing in a 31-14 loss to Oklahoma in the bowl game, would appear to be in line for the starting job.

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