The NCAA has returned its decision in the case of Baylor University's once-homeless running back Silas Nacita, ruling him permanently ineligible.

Speaking with Bleacher Report, Nacita confirmed his playing status and discussed his inspiring story and how he reacted to the ruling. Baylor also confirmed to Bleacher Report that Nacita had been dismissed from the football team.

Nacita's story became public at the end of Dec. when Sports Illustrated published a profile on him written by Ken Rodriguez. The article detailed Nacita's unlikely journey to fulfill his dream to play Division I college football.

Along the way, he hitchhiked, rested his head in public places and accepted help from people who lent him floor space to sleep or food when he did not have a meal. The NCAA determined that latter part to be a direct violation and ruled Nacita received impermissible benefits.

A school official informed Nacita of his suspension Feb. 24. The investigation lasted about a month and supported the NCAA's original finding.

"I worked so hard for 12 years for this game, and I have lost it," Nacita told Bleacher Report. "Whatever it is [I need to do to play again], it would be worth it."

When he was informed of his suspension, he said he "didn't really understand" and left the meeting dazed, returning to the locker room to sit in silence. His teammates knew his story and admired him for it, but Nacita was especially popular on the team for his reputation as a superb teammate and a hard worker.

"It's been really tough. But through it all, I know God is good," Nacita said. "He blessed me with the opportunities that I've had, and he's always taken care of me. I've been through some pretty tough things in my life, but through it all, God is not surprised. He knows what's going to happen. I have trust in him and know he has a plan for me."

The wheels are already in motion for the running back finding his way back to a football field, as he told Bleacher Report he is looking into schools that play at the NAIA level.

"If I am going to go out, I want it to be on my terms," he said. "I want to be satisfied with how it ended. I know it's cliche, but I want to leave it out all on the field. I don't want to just leave it in a meeting room somewhere. I love the game and want to play more than ever."