Meyer now says he'll take leave of absence

NEW ORLEANS, Dec. 27 (UPI) -- Florida football Coach Urban Meyer announced a change in plans Sunday, saying he'll take an indefinite leave of absence instead of resigning.

Offensive coordinator Steve Addazio will coach the team in Meyer's absence.

The 45-year-old Meyer announced the change a day after he said he would resign for health and family reasons. He had said Florida's Sugar Bowl game against Cincinnati New Year's Day would be his last as coach of the Gators.

Meyer spoke to his players in Gainesville, Fla., before the team left for New Orleans, telling them of his decision.

"During the past couple of days I was offered and encouraged to take a leave of absence," Meyer said. "I've accepted this offer to improve on my health."

Meyer has a 56-10 record in five seasons as Florida's coach. His teams won the national title following the 2006 and 2008 seasons.

Florida is 12-1 this year. The Gators had won 22 straight games before losing 32-13 to Alabama in the SEC championship game Dec. 5.

Meyer's overall record as a college coach is 95-18. He also coached at Bowling Green and Utah.