Miller soars his way into Eagles program
Published 12:00 am Tuesday, July 3, 2007
Chad Miller is the handyman of high school football. He’ll take that trade to the Morehead State Eagles.
The Ironton Fighting Tigers versatile All-Ohio standout committed Wednesday to play next fall for the Eagles who plan to take advantage of his many skills.
Although he wants to play safety in college, Miller doesn’t mind the fact Morehead State is also looking at him as a running back, quarterback, wide receiver, punter and kick returner.
“The running back coach recruited me and the coaches are pretty sure they want me as a halfback, but I’m going to try any position to try and play,” Miller said.
Ironton coach Merril Triplett Jr. said being an outstanding all-around athlete is what attracted the Eagles coaching staff.
“They watched him and got excited,” Triplett said. “Chad’s the most versatile athlete we had on our team. He’s an impact player. He’s a halfback, a receiver, a defensive back and he can play special teams.
“He’s the best athlete I’ve coached in my 25 years. He can do a lot for their program.”
Miller said he liked Morehead State because it was a smaller school and “it was a good fit. I get a chance to play my freshman year and that’s what I looked at.”
Miller, who was also All-Ohio in basketball and is a four-year starter in baseball, put up numbers this past season that reflected his versatility.
As a running back, Miller ran 134 times for 835 yards and a 6.2 yards per carry average in 11 games to lead Ironton. He also led the team by scoring 12 touchdowns.
As a quarterback, Miller was 15 of 36 for 307 yards and two touchdowns.
Triplett said Miller’s contributions went beyond the playing field.
“He was someone for the young kids to look up to and see a guy who has no quit in him. That was one great role model for our young kids,” Triplett said.
Chad is the son of Teresa and Cecil Miller of Ironton.