SOUTH BEND, Ind. (AP) — Quarterback Everett Golson has been suspended from the University of Notre Dame for the fall semester for what he called poor academic judgment and indicated he will be given the opportunity to return in January.

“I take full responsibility for my poor choices and will do all that is asked of me to regain the trust of my family, friends, teammates, coaches and the entire Notre Dame community,” he wrote in a letter released by the university Sunday.

Golson was officially no longer enrolled at Notre Dame as of Friday, university spokesman Dennis Brown said Saturday night.

Golson had helped the Irish go 12-0 during the regular season, regain the No. 1 ranking for the first time in nearly two decades and get to the national title game against Alabama in January. He was being counted on to play an even bigger role in 2013.

Golson wrote that he understands that because of his suspension his integrity could be in question.

“But I want to reassure my supporters that through this experience I will return a better student athlete as well as a better individual,” he said.

He also thanked the university for the opportunity it already has given him and the opportunity to retain his eligibility in January.

“At this point, I understand how my integrity could be in question but I want to reassure my supporters that through this experience I will return a better student athlete as well as a better individual,” said. “Lastly, I want to thank the University of Notre Dame for the opportunity already granted and also the opportunity going forth to regain my eligibility in the winter of 2014.”

Golson’s abrupt exit leaves the Irish unsettled at a position they were hoping would be a strength in 2013.

The most likely replacement is Tommy Rees, the 2011 starter who played key roles in four victories last season when Golson either struggled or was injured.

Other candidates are Tommy Hendrix, a senior with no career starts, and freshman Malik Zaire.

Freshman Gunner Kiel left in the spring before even trying to challenge Golson for the starter’s job during spring practice. Kiel transferred to Cincinnati.

NCAA rules would permit Kiel to return, but texted “I’m a Bearcat” to The (Cincinnati) Enquirer.