Florida Gators' Pouncey twins to split up

12:34 P.M. -- GAINESVILLE - For the first time since birth, the Pouncey twins are splitting up. Maurkice Pouncey, who won the Rimington Award as the nation's top center as a junior this season, announced Monday he will leave school early for the NFL. Twin brother Mike, however, will remain at UF for his senior season.

Also, Florida junior defensive end Carlos Dunlap announced in his hometown of North Charleston, S.C., on Monday morning that he is also departing for the NFL.

Dunlap had a team-high nine sacks in 2009, despite missing the SEC title game after a DUI charge which remains unsettled. He had 19.5 sacks in his college career as was the Defensive MVP of the 2008 national title win against Oklahoma.

"This took a lot of thought and prayer between me and my family, and we decided that this was the best direction for me to take,'' Dunlap said. "I've loved having the chance to play at Florida for Coach (Urban) Meyer, and playing for Coach Charlie Strong. I wouldn't be the person or the player I am today without them and the other coaches who have helped me along the way.''

He was named All-SEC by the SEC coaches, the Associated Press and Sporting News and was a semifinalist for the Lombardi Award.

"Carlos has all of the physical tools to be successful at the next level," said Meyer. "I believe if he continues to grow and mature he will have a very long career in the NFL. He provided matchup problems for opposing teams and was a big part of our success during the last several years. We wish him the best of luck."

(Edit:Ruby)