BYU received pledge from All-American QB
The quarterback era after Max Hall just got more dramatic on Memorial Day when one of the most prolific quarterbacks in high school history announced he would sign with BYU.
Riley Nelson, a Parade All-America QB from Logan, who attended Utah State as a freshman before going on an LDS mission, will play at BYU upon his return from Barcelona, Spain in March 2009, according to his father, Keith Nelson.
With permission from his mission president, Nelson and BYU coaches have communicated through e-mail and came to an understanding about Nelson transferring to BYU. Nelson informed his parents of the decision on Monday morning, a national holiday.
“He looked at this from an emotional, academic and athletic perspective and decided this was the best thing for him to do,” according to Keith Nelson.
At 6 foot-1, Nelson was one of the bright spots for the Aggies when he took over QB duties during a dismal season two years ago.
Nelson’s football resume is as good as they come – regardless of competition.
“Riley believes he has a lot to learn from BYU quarterback coach Brandon Doman. He respects him and is looking forward to working with him. Riley wanted to get this decision out of the way so he could focus on the most important thing in his life right now, his mission work, which he loves,” said Keith.
Here is a breakout of his profile on Utah State’s website:
He was named a Parade All-American… Named Mr. Football in the state of Utah by the Deseret Morning News… Was the Gatorade Utah Football Player of the Year as well… Was an all-state selection and the class 3A MVP… Set a national record accounting for 84 touchdowns (53 passing and 31 rushing) as a senior… Also set national record for six touchdowns per game… Finished his high school career with nine Utah state records, including career total touchdowns (130), career passing touchdowns (79), season completions (277), season passing yards (4,041), season passing touchdowns (53), season total touchdowns (84), season total yards (5,815), single-game completions (38) and single-game touchdown passes (seven)… Led Logan to the 3A state championship as a senior… Also played baseball for three years and was a two-time all-region selection… Played basketball one season… Born June 2, 1988 in Salt Lake City, Utah… Son of Keith and Joni Nelson… Father played football at USU, while his grandfather Rod Tueller was an Aggie basketball coach and athletics director…
As a reader/fan what impact do you thing this will have on both programs?