HONOLULU -- The University of Hawaii on Thursday ruled senior quarterback Tyler Graunke academically eligible.

Graunke spent a spring and summer dealing with what he called academic issues.

UH head coach Greg McMackin and Graunke said the ruling opens the door for his return to the team.

He must still clear a physical exam, and papers must be processed.

KITV 4 Island Sports has learned that steps have been taken to welcome Graunke back to the defending Western Athletic Conference Champion Warriors for his senior season.

Having Graunke returning to a game-type situation is still unclear at this point, McMackin said.

What is clear is that the only player in UH history to throw a Bowl Championship Series touchdown pass will not accompany his team to Florida for the Aug. 30, for the season opener.

In three seasons with UH, Graunke has played in 25 games, passed for 2,041 yards and 16 touchdowns. He also went 2-0 as a starter last season.

Last week, McMackin announced sophomore Brent Rausch as the starting quarterback against the No. 5 Gators.