SAN DIEGO -- Southwestern College quarterback Drew Westling took a roundabout route to San Diego State, but he said he probably belonged with the Aztecs all along.

"My aunt (Donna Bell) has worked at San Diego State for 25 years, so I've always followed the Aztecs and liked them," Westling said. "My first year at Tulsa (2005), we played Oklahoma, so I was familiar with Chuck Long and the offense. San Diego State seems like the best fit for me."

Westling, a 6-foot-3, 215-pounder, said he accepted a scholarship offer from Long -- now in his second year as SDSU's head coach -- and will join the team in the spring with two years of eligibility remaining.

He began his college career at Tulsa University out of Aliso Niguel High in Orange County. He redshirted his first year and played three games in 2006, completing the only pass he attempted for 37 yards.

But after Tulsa coach Steve Kragthorpe left for Louisville, Westling said he decided to return home to a California junior college to gain playing time rather than face the uncertainty of a new coaching staff.

At Chula Vista's Southwestern, which went 3-6 this season, Westling completed 173-of-325 passes (53.2 percent) for 2,087 yards with 14 touchdowns and 12 interceptions.

Westling fills a gap on the depth chart between departing senior Kevin O'Connell and redshirt freshman Kelsey Sokoloski and true freshman Ryan Lindley.

"I by no means think I'm the guy," Westling said. "I know they have some great quarterbacks on the roster, and I have to go in there and compete for the job. I'm grateful for the opportunity to play for Coach Long and Coach (Del) Miller (offensive coordinator). I'm coming to contribute any way I can."

Westling said he canceled a scheduled visit to Boston College and also received interest from Hawaii, Utah, Colorado State and San Jose State.