CEDAR CITY, Utah - As the 2023 season approaches, excitement is building for Southern Utah Thunderbirds football, and all eyes are drawn to one of the most important positions on the field, the quarterback. Among the standout athletes to watch out for this season in the Thunderbird offense is quarterback Justin Miller, who has been named to the prestigious 2023 Walter Payton Award Watch List. Miller's remarkable talent and potential for breaking several Southern Utah program records make him a player to watch during the upcoming season.
Coach DeLane Fitzgerald Said
"We feel fortunate to have Justin as our quarterback. Anytime you return a three-year starter that has an opportunity to break all the passing records in school history you are in a good situation.
Our coaching staff's charge for Justin this fall is for him to finish drives, finish halves, and finish close games. With all of Justin's game experience, we are expecting him to get over the hump in the win/loss column. It's not a huge ask. Everyone expects him to finish a winner."
Justin Miller: A Record-Breaking Career
Justin Miller, our talented quarterback, has consistently demonstrated excellence on the field and has become a leader in the building success of the Southern Utah Thunderbirds. Looking back at his past seasons with us, it is evident that Miller is on the path to becoming a program legend.
In the Fall of 2022, Miller put on a phenomenal performance, starting all 11 games for the Thunderbirds. He threw for a career-best 2,824 yards and recorded an impressive 20 touchdowns, displaying his remarkable arm talent. Additionally, his ability to stay calm under pressure and deliver on high-percentage throws has been remarkable.
Even before the 2022 season, Miller showcased his potential in the Fall of 2021, leading the Thunderbirds with 2,416 passing yards and nine touchdowns. One of the standout moments came during our game against Tarleton State, where he threw for 304 yards and four touchdowns, solidifying his status as a top offensive player.
During the Spring 2021 season, Miller continued to shine, starting all six games and amassing 1,713 passing yards and 15 touchdowns. His consistent and outstanding performance earned him a spot on the HERO Sports FCS Sophomore All-America Team, showcasing his rising star status.
As we head into the 2023 season, the anticipation is high, as Justin Miller is on the verge of making history at Southern Utah. He is on track to break several program records, including total plays, total yards, passing attempts, completions, and passing touchdowns. With his dedication, skill, and incredible performances, Miller is poised to etch his name into our program's storied history.
The Quarterback Landscape: A Season of Excitement
While Justin Miller takes center stage, the quarterback position as a whole promises to be a key factor in our team's success during the 2023 season. As the leader of the offense, the quarterback will play a crucial role in guiding the Thunderbirds to victory.
Offensive Coordinator Tye Hiatt said
"The Quarterbacks have been making strides during camp. Installing a new scheme is never easy but the guys have done a nice job of picking up the details within the offense.
Justin has been a great leader for the group as he is a true professional. He shows up to work every day with a great attitude and is helping everyone improve. Grady (Robison) is dynamic with the ball in his hands and Jackson (Berry) has been making better decisions with the football as we have progressed through camp.
I'm encouraged by the improvement of the entire group but we need to take another step in our development in order for us to be successful on a daily basis."
With a talented roster of quarterbacks ready to compete and contribute to the team's success. This could be an exhilarating season of Southern Utah Thunderbirds football.
Single Game Tickets
Single-game tickets for the 2023 season are now available for purchase. Get over to tbirdtickets.com to get your seats for this year's home games!
About the Walter Payton Award:
The Walter Payton Award, presented by FedEx Ground, is awarded annually to the most outstanding offensive player in Division I FCS college football. Named after the legendary NFL running back Walter Payton, the award recognizes excellence, leadership, and exceptional contributions to the sport.
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