Cimarron’s Miller commits to Utah

Spencer Patterson

Wednesday, Jan. 5, 2000 | 10:23 a.m.

The first day of college football's signing period is still nearly a month away, and already it's looking like a banner year for Las Vegas' prep players.

On Tuesday, Cimarron-Memorial linebacker Taylor Miller became the third area senior to commit to a Division I school, verbally agreeing to accept a full scholarship at the University of Utah.

Miller, the Sun's 1999 State Defensive Player of the Year, said he chose the Utes in large part because the school will allow him to go on a two-year Mormon mission beginning this summer.

"When I get back, my scholarship will be waiting for me," Miller said. "If I have a chance to work out on my mission, that will be great, but if not then when I get back I'll have to hit it even harder."

The defensive leader of the Spartans' back-to-back 4A state title teams, the 6-2, 215-pound Miller racked up 114 tackles, including 15 for losses, last fall.

"I think I need to improve my speed and strength," said Miller, who was recruited to play his familiar inside linebacker position. "But I think I have good linebacker instincts, and that should play a big role. I also think my work ethic will help me a lot."

Miller becomes the second local player to commit in the past month. In December, Las Vegas High linebacker Jonathan Pollard chose Oregon State.

Chaparral offensive lineman John Ream made his college selection as a junior, verbally committing to UCLA.

Several other players from Southern Nevada have garnered considerable attention from Division I schools, including Durango safety Jamaal Brimmer, Chaparral running back/receiver Mario Hagan, Western lineman Marcus Levi, Las Vegas quarterback Anthony Marini, Cheyenne lineman Lynn McGruder and Bonanza linebacker Adam Seward.

Football players can begin signing with colleges on Feb. 2.