COLUMBUS, Ohio — A judge on Wednesday cleared the way for ex-Ohio State football star Maurice Clarett to move to a smaller detention facility in Columbus.

Clarett, who led the Buckeyes to the 2002 national championship in his only college season, served 3½ years in prison for aggravated robbery and carrying a concealed weapon.

Franklin County Common Pleas Court Judge David Fais said 26-year-old Clarett had met terms of his original sentencing when he pleaded guilty in September 2006 and permitted the move to a community-based correction facility.

Clarett spoke briefly, saying he was humbled. Employment, education and family considerations will be evaluated at the facility. He will be there at least 4 months but no more than 6 months before being released, pending good behavior.