Central Florida's Kevin Smith, the nation's leading rusher this season, changed his mind and will turn pro, he confirmed Sunday night. Smith seriously challenged Barry Sanders' NCAA record of 2,628 rushing yards in a season but finished 61 yards short. The running back was hailed as a hero three weeks ago for deciding to stay in school to earn a degree and help build UCF's burgeoning program. "When I had the press conference a few weeks ago, that's how I felt then," Smith told the Orlando Sentinel. "I think people know with decision people know you're gonna go back and forth and change your mind until you realize what you really want to do. Two weeks ago I had every intention of going back and being a knight. My true supporters will understand and realize I'm doing what's best for me." Another season would have put Smith well within reach of former Wisconsin back Ron Dayne's NCAA career record.