TEMPE, Ariz. - Chris Gamble, one of the most versatile players in college football, will skip his senior season at Ohio State to enter the NFL draft.

Gamble, who starts at cornerback, plays some at receiver and returns punts, made the announcement after the Buckeyes beat Kansas State 35-28 in the Fiesta Bowl on Friday night.

''I always had it in the back of my mind what I was going to do,'' Gamble said. ''I talked it over with my parents and they told me to make an announcement after the game.''

Gamble, an all-Big Ten selection the past two seasons, intercepted a pass to set up a touchdown, had three tackles and broke up four passes against Kansas State.

''I knew I was always ready to play in the NFL,'' he said. ''I had some bad games this year but I just wanted to bounce back and play real good this game. I think I did. I think I'm just ready right now.

''I just want to work hard and play with the best athletes in the world.''