By Jeff Skrzypek

EUGENE, Ore. -- He is considered by many as the face of Oregon football. He's also the latest university figure to make big news.

Mike Bellotti is stepping down as athletic director to take a job at ESPN. Bellotti calls it one of the most difficult decisions he's ever had to make. He's not only leaving his post as athletic director, but he's also walking away from a university he's called home for the last two decades.

"One of the toughest decisions in my life was about one year and one day ago, and that was to walk away from the football job here at the University of Oregon. The second most difficult is today," said Bellotti.

First he left as coach, now Mike Bellotti is leaving the University of Oregon altogether. ESPN offered Bellotti a job as a football analyst and a chance to focus on what he truly loves.

"It quickly became apparent to me that I like and enjoy college athletics. I love college football...This new opportunity with ESPN I think allows me to continue to pursue that, to utilize my experience, my expertise and my passion and staying connected to the game," he said. "I'm just excited about it, and yet at the same time I feel bad at the timing of my leave."

The timing of course coming on the heels of what can only be described as one of the most tumultuous runs any athletic director has ever seen. Between Duck athletes in court and Ernie Kent being let go, some wondered whether it all ended up being more trouble than it was worth. Bellotti says that wasn't the case.

"I want to make sure that everyone understand that I'm not running from anything at all. I've faced much more difficult situations as the football coach and weathered those, and I was planning on weathering these storms also," said Bellotti.

The move also raises questions about his decision to hand his football team to Chip Kelly, but Bellotti maintains he has no regrets.

"It was absolutely my decision at the time. I think this is the right decision," he said.

As far as coaching again, he says he doesn't rule it out but added that's not why he's making this move. Bellotti's new job as a college football analyst with ESPN could start as soon as April. He's penned to make his TV debut at his new post on April 17 for an Auburn spring football game.