Fresno State Athletics
Miller's Time to Shine
8/21/2007 12:00:00 AM | Football
Aug. 21, 2007
FRESNO, Calif. - With Dwayne Wright in the NFL, room has been made for a new star running back at Fresno State. Lonyae Miller is the expected replacement and with good reason. Looking strong in training camp, Miller comes into 2007 after gaining valuable experience as a true freshman under Wright.
"He's a great athlete and showed great leadership," Miller said of Wright. "I looked up to the way he carried himself on and off the field, as a family man as well. He's been through a lot of struggles, especially with his injury. It is how he fought through it. Especially with the accomplishments he has made like going to the NFL. He makes me want to work harder."
In 2006, Miller stepped up and showed off his talents when he led the team with 16 carries for 113 yards and a touchdown against Hawaii. With a six-year tradition of accomplished running backs on his mind, Miller feels entitled to live up to expectations but most importantly to satisfy his personal goals. His task is to be the seventh straight running back to rush for 1,000 yards. Miller also has his eye on Wright's school-record 295 yards against Louisiana Tech.
The 5-11 Fontana native looks forward to having his chance to shine and has been working hard for the upcoming season. Coaches and fans have noticed.
"He is a year stronger and understanding the game better," said running backs coach Tim Skipper. "He is a God-gifted athlete with a lot of power. He has many talents, not just running. He has speed, good hands and he's strong. That is the type of player he is and we need."
Working hard is just what Miller is doing. His off-season has consisted of individual practices and staying in the weight room, lifting four times a week. Not only is he working out but he also admits to studying the playbook and making sure he knows what the team is going to do this year.
"His main improvement this year is pass protection," Skipper said. "He's been working on being firm and not letting guys get by him."
Looking to improve personally and on the team's last season, this sophomore knows to stay focused.
"We need a turn-around," Miller said. "We need to build our program from the ground up and that starts with me and the offense."
With a dream to one day follow Wright's lead and enter the NFL, Miller's main focus is to get a degree and care for his family. With classes about to begin, Miller is not worried about the hectic schedule.
As an honor roll student last year, Miller is expecting another good year in school and plans to make big moves on the field.
"We have a nice little schedule with school and camp," Miller said. "Everything should be fine. My main thing is to stay focused in the classroom."
Miller's preparation for the season is in full swing and fans and coaches can't wait to see what he will bring to Bulldog football.
"He's got the tools to perform," Skipper said. "And we're going to use him the best we can."
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