Feb. 4, 2009

2009 SIGNING DAY CENTRAL

LAS VEGAS - UNLV's fifth, and arguably best, football recruiting class under head coach Mike Sanford was announced on the initial day of the national signing period Wednesday with 22 student-athletes making up the list of future Rebels for the second straight season.

"We have an excellent nucleus of players returning to this team and we felt like we needed to add to the existing group to take the next step, and that is to compete for the Mountain West Conference championship," Sanford said. "This is the best class we have signed in my time here and gives us a great opportunity to reach our goals. There are players in this class that are going to make an immediate impact, especially the junior college guys, but we also signed a lot of players who are going to add competition now and be starters in the future."

The group boasts eight players who were assigned at least three stars by either Scout or Rivals, which is the most on record for the program. In addition, no less than seven players were ranked among the nation's top 100 at their respective positions by Scout, Rivals or Scouts, Inc.

"Our biggest needs going into recruiting were defensive secondary and speed, and we've answered both of those important questions. We signed five junior college players, four of which will play in the defensive backfield, and dramatically improved our team speed."

UNLV's class consists of student-athletes whose hometowns are spread among five states: 12 from California, five from Nevada, two each from Texas and Arizona and one from Maryland.

"We made it known that we would always put a big emphasis on recruiting California and that was the reality with 12 signees from there this year," Sanford said. "This class also continues to emphasize the point that we are serious about recruiting this state because we signed five more to go with the 19 Nevada kids currently on the roster."

The total of five signees from the Las Vegas area marks the most announced in a UNLV recruiting class from the state of Nevada since Sanford's initial class and ties with four years for the most on record (2005, 2001, 1999 and 1994).

The recruits list, which does not include four grayshirts who signed a year ago but joined the program this semester as true freshmen, features five junior-college players, three of which signed during December's early period and are currently enrolled at UNLV.

The class leans toward defense with 12 players hailing from that side of the ball. The secondary dominates the list as eight defensive backs signed on to help rebuild the Rebel backfield. The full breakdown is as follows: 8 DB, 4 OL, 4 WR, 2 LB, 2 DL, 1 RB and 1 QB.

"I believe that the eight defensive backs that we signed make up a great group that will make a dramatic change in the competition, the depth and possibly the starters in our secondary starting right now."

A complete list of UNLV's 2009 football signees follows.

2008 MIDYEAR JUNIOR COLLEGE SIGNEES

KENNY BROWN
CB 5-10 160 SO-TR Palmdale, CA Paraclete HS/College of the Canyons
A three-star recruit who is one of a trio of midyear signees that all play defensive back, Brown enrolled at UNLV in January and will take part in spring practice ... A sophomore JC transfer who has three years of eligibility remaining ... The younger brother of BYU's all-time leading rusher Curtis Brown (2002, 2004-06) and a product of the same high school as former Rebel running back Erick Jackson (2003-06). COLLEGE OF THE CANYONS: Played just one season at the junior college in Santa Clarita, Calif., after enrolling in January 2008 ... Totaled 16 tackles (14 solo), four pass breakups and a forced fumble ... The Cougars went 12-0 before losing 51-44 to Mount San Antonio College in the Southern California regional semifinals. HIGH SCHOOL: Graduated in 2007 from Paraclete HS in Lancaster, CA ... Lettered twice for the Spirits under coach Norm Dahlia. PERSONAL: Kenneth Isiah Brown was born on April 13, 1989, in Fontana, CA ... The son of Cheryl and Herman Brown ... Has an older brother, Curtis, and a sister, Stephanie.
SANFORD ON BROWN: "Kenny Brown is a great competitor and a leader from a winning junior college football team. He is a great addition to our football program."

ALEX DE GIACOMO
S 6-1 190 JR-TR Westminster, CA Westminster HS/El Camino College
A three-star recruit who is a midyear signee at safety who enrolled in January and will take part in spring practice with the Rebels ... Will look to challenge for immediate playing time this fall ... Also made an official visit to Kansas State. EL CAMINO: Led the junior college program in total tackles with 57 in 2008 ... Added one interception and three pass breakups for coach John Featherstone's program ... Helped Warriors to a 10-2 overall record. GOLDEN WEST COLLEGE: Played one season at the JC located in Huntington Beach, CA ... Made 27 tackles, deflected four passes and recorded one interception in 2007. HIGH SCHOOL: A 2005 graduate of Westminster HS in Westminster, CA... A three-year letterwinner for the Lions under coach Ted McMillan ... Earned first team all-league honors as a senior with 37 tackles, five pass deflections and two interceptions, one which was returned for a score ... Had 32 tackles and two picks during his junior season ... Also a four-year letterwinner in basketball. PERSONAL: Alexander Warren De Giacomo was born on Oct. 4, 1985, in Fountain Valley, CA ... The son of Beth and Mike De Giacomo ... Has two brothers, Michael and Tyler, and three sisters, Angela, Jazmine and Briana.
SANFORD ON DEGIACOMO: "We had a pressing need in the secondary, especially at the safety spot, so we are excited to get Alex De Giacomo. He is an excellent player from a very good program. He will make a big impact on our program."

WARREN ZEIGLER
CB 6-0 170 JR-TR San Leandro, CA San Leandro HS/College of Mateo
One of three JC cornerbacks signed by the Rebels this year and will look to vie for playing time in 2009 ... Enrolled at UNLV in January and will compete in spring practice with the Rebels. COLLEGE OF SAN MATEO: Played two seasons for the California junior college under coach Larry Owens ... As a sophomore Zeigler led the Bulldogs with 10 pass breakups to go with one interception and 28 total tackles. HIGH SCHOOL: A in 2007 graduate of San Leandro HS ... Helped the Pirates to a 12-1 overall record and a state championship in 2006 ... Picked off three passes and made 40 tackles during senior season ... Also rushed for more than 600 yards and scored nine touchdowns playing running back ... Earned All-Bay Area and second team all-conference honors. PERSONAL: Warren D. Zeigler was born on Sept. 16, 1988, in Long Beach, CA ... The son of Judy and Reginald Zeigler ... Has three brothers and a sister.
SANFORD ON ZEIGLER: "Warren Zeigler is an excellent man-to-man coverage defender who was a very strong prospect coming out of high school and has improved greatly playing in junior college."

2009 JUNIOR COLLEGE SIGNEES

B.J. BELL
DE 6-3 250 JR-TR Tustin, CA Tustin HS/Santa Ana College
A three-star recruit that ranks as the No. 45 Junior College prospect in the nation according to Rivals ... A 2008 J.C. Gridwire First Team All-American ... The third Bell brother to sign with the Rebels is a big, fast, pass-rushing force that will look for immediate time at an end spot ... Chose UNLV over offers from Kansas, San Diego State and Marshall. SANTA ANA: Turned in two dominating seasons at the California junior college ... As a sophomore recorded 72 tackles, including a stunning 24.5 tackles for loss and 10 sacks. HIGH SCHOOL: A 2006 graduate of Tustin HS in Tustin, CA ... Lettered twice for the Tillers under coach Miron Miller ... Helped his team to the CIF semifinals during his senior season ... Played on both sides of the ball ... Also lettered in lacrosse as a senior and track during his junior year. PERSONAL: Brian "B.J." Bell was born on July 8, 1987, in Orange, CA. ... The son of Joanne Wilson and Brian Bell ... Has two older brothers, Zach and Beau ... Is following in his older brother's footsteps and both Zach (2001-04) and Beau (2004-07) played linebacker for the Rebels ... Beau Bell, who was the 2007 Mountain West Conference Defensive Player of the Year, is currently in the NFL with the Cleveland Browns.
SANFORD ON BELL: "We needed to recruit a big-time pass rush defensive end and we were able to get that in B.J. Bell. He is an outstanding player in his own right but it is also great to have a third Bell brother come in to play for the Rebels to continue that legacy."

MIKE GRANT
DB 5-11 185 JR-TR Fresno, CA Laguna Creek HS/Sierra College
One of four JC defensive backs in this year's UNLV class ... A cornerback that will vie for immediate playing time in the secondary as well as compete for the squad's punt return duties. SIERRA COLLEGE: Played two seasons at the JC located in Rocklin, CA ... Picked off seven passes and made 32 tackles as a defensive back for the Wolverines in 2008 ... Also forced two fumbles, returned one fumble for a touchdown and returned a punt for a score ... Recorded six interceptions to go along with 49 tackles and four forced fumbles as a freshman. HIGH SCHOOL: A 2007 graduate of Laguna Creek HS in Elk Grove, CA ... Lettered twice for the Cardinals ... Picked off a pair of passes and recovered two fumbles as a senior ... Brought down 40 ball carriers, had six pass breakups and made two interceptions as a junior. PERSONAL: Michael Niel Grant was born on Sept. 3, 1989, in Fresno, CA ... The son of Latasha Grant and Mike Grant Sr. ... Has two brothers, Tyrone and Tyrell Jones, and a sister, Teyha Grant.
SANFORD ON GRANT: "We have been recruiting Mike Grant for a long time. He came to our camp before his senior season and we've had our eyes on him. He will be an excellent cover cornerback for us."

2009 HIGH SCHOOL SIGNEES

BRANDON BABINEAUX
WR 6-4 200 FR-HS Folsom, CA Folsom HS
A tall, rangy two-way prep player from an athletic family who will compete as a receiver for the Rebels. HIGH SCHOOL: A three-year letterwinner at Folsom HS under coach Kris Richardson ... A two-way player who started at both wide receiver and safety ... Hauled in 34 catches for 558 yards and nine touchdowns as a senior ... Recorded 24 catches for 295 yards and two scores as a junior and 16 receptions for 276 yards and one touchdown as a sophomore ... Earned 2008 Honorable Mention All-Metro by the Sacramento Bee ... Earned All-Delta River League honors three times (2006-08) ... Also a basketball player for the Bulldogs as a small forward. PERSONAL: Brandon Joseph Babineaux was born on July, 4, 1991, in Fairfield, CA ... The son of Karen and Joseph Babineaux ... Has three brothers, Justin, Kori and Chase, and a sister, Jordan ... Comes from a football family, as his father played cornerback at the University of Louisiana-Monroe in 1983-84 and he has two cousins who are playing in the NFL (Jordan Babineaux of the Seattle Seahawks and Jonathan Babineaux of the Atlanta Falcons) ... His brother Justin played collegiate basketball at Mississippi from 2002-05.
SANFORD ON BABINEAUX: "We have different job descriptions for our receivers and Brandon Babineaux fits in as a 'Big Receiver.' He is that kind of player who will be physically dominant and can also go up high and get the ball in the end zone."

MARK BAREFIELD
WR 6-0 185 FR-HS Wills Point, TX Wills Point HS
A speedy, versatile athlete who projects as a wide receiver for the Rebels ... An early commit who is one of two Texans in this year's class along with center Andrew Mack ... Also drew interest from Virginia. HIGH SCHOOL: Lettered four times in football during prep career ... Played three seasons at Wills Point HS before transferring to North Mesquite HS in Mesquite, TX, for his senior season ... Returned to -- and will graduate from -- WPHS this spring ... Named first team all-district as a junior with 36 receptions for 716 yards and three scores ... Made 21 receptions for 435 yards and four scores during his senior season ... Also returned a pair of kicks for scores and was named second team all-district on offense ... Lettered in both basketball and track and field as well. PERSONAL: Mark Edward Barefield was born on Sept. 9, 1990, in Dallas, TX ... The son of Vickie Feagin and Mark Barefield.
SANFORD ON BAREFIELD: "Mark Barefield fits the category of our 'Speed Receiver.' He is a difference maker as far as his ability to run and catch the ball."

JORDAN BARRETT
LB 6-3 225 FR-HS Oak Park, CA Notre Dame HS
A highly recruited three-star prospect from a top high school program ... Listed as the nation's No. 12 SLB by Scout, the No. 16 ILB by Scouts, Inc. and the No. 47 ILB by Rivals ... A strong, physical defender who is one of only two linebackers in this year's Rebel class ... Also ranked by Rivals as the No. 85 recruit in the state of California. HIGH SCHOOL: A four-time letterwinner at Notre Dame HS in Sherman Oaks, CA ... A first team all-district and all-league pick as a senior ... Named the Knights' defensive MVP during a senior campaign that featured 108 tackles, three sacks and one interception ... Brought down 100 ball carriers and made five sacks as a junior ... Lettered the past three years in track and field while competing in the shot put. PERSONAL: Jordan Jeffrey Barrett was born on Sept. 22, 1990, in Burbank, CA ... The son of Kim and Jeff Barrett ... Has three younger brothers ... His father played quarterback for Brown University.
SANFORD ON BARRETT: "Jordan Barrett was a highly recruited player who at one point was offered by Notre Dame and Washington. He is a big, tough player and we are very excited to get someone of his caliber in this class."

COURTNEY BRIDGET
DB 6-3 190 FR-HS Baltimore, MD Dunbar HS
A talented defensive back with good size who is believed to be the first Rebel football recruit from national athletic powerhouse Dunbar High in Baltimore, which is a perennial state champion on the gridiron ... Listed as the No. 99 cornerback in the nation by Scout and the No. 119 safety by Scouts, Inc. HIGH SCHOOL: Lettered three times at Paul Lawrence Dunbar HS ... Helped lead the Poets to a 13-1 overall record and the 2008 State 1A championship as a senior ... Also won the state with the 2007 championship team ... Made 43 tackles, picked off 10 passes, had seven deflections, two forced fumbles and one fumble recovery during final prep season ... Played under coach Lawrence Smith ... Lettered three times in track and field and also participated in basketball. PERSONAL: Courtney Duane Bridget Jr. was born on March 22, 1991, in Baltimore ... The son of Kijana and Courtney Bridget Sr. ... Has a younger sister.
SANFORD ON BRIDGET: "We went all the way to Baltimore to find a tall corner who is able to defend tall receivers and we believe he will be a great addition to our secondary. Comes from a very successful, championship program."

CHARLES CHILDERS
DB 6-0 185 FR-HS Las Vegas, NV Bishop Gorman HS
A big-hitting defensive back from local power prep program Bishop Gorman ... Listed as the No. 100 safety in the nation by Scouts, Inc. and the No. 131 safety by Scout ... Recorded six tackles for the West in the Offense-Defense All-American Bowl held in Conway, S.C. on Jan. 7 ... BGHS teammate and fellow UNLV signee John Therrell also competed in the all-star event ... Also joins former prep teammate Beau Orth on the Rebels. HIGH SCHOOL: Three-time letterwinner at Bishop Gorman HS ... Helped the Gaels to a 12-2 record as a senior after an undefeated 4A state championship campaign in 2007 ... Played safety as a junior and then moved to cornerback for his senior season ... Also competed in track and field. PERSONAL: Charles Anthony Childers IV was born on Oct. 18, 1990, in New York City ... The son of Donna and Charles Childers III ... Has a younger sister, Nicolle.
SANFORD ON CHILDERS: "Charles Childers is a tremendous local player from Bishop Gorman who should make an impact as a freshman. He really turned some heads in the all-star game in January and we are very happy to have him."

CALEB HERRING
QB 6-4 175 FR-HS Moreno Valley, CA Citrus Hill HS
A tall, talented two-time state champion signal-caller that was the program's first commitment of the year back in June 2008 ... The only quarterback signed by UNLV in this class ... A three-star recruit who is listed as the No. 34 pro-style quarterback in the nation by Rivals and the No. 64 signal-caller by Scout ... Ranked the No. 98 recruit in the state of California by the Contra Costa Times ... Competed in the Inland Empire All-Star Football Classic on Jan. 10 along with fellow Rebel signee Bradley Randle. HIGH SCHOOL: A four-year letterwinner at Citrus Hill HS in Perris, CA. ... Led the Hawks to back-to-back 14-0 records and consecutive CIF championships in 2007 and 2008 ... Threw for 3,050 yards and 36 touchdowns against just six interceptions as a senior ... That followed a strong junior campaign in which he threw for 2,400 yards to go with 26 scores and five interceptions under coach Doug DuBois ... Also plays guard/forward for the Hawk basketball team. PERSONAL: Caleb DeVon Herring was born on Feb. 3, 1991, in Long Beach, CA ... The son of Michelle and Mike Herring ... Has two brothers, Mike and Jacoby, and two sisters, Alyria and Tamara ... His father played college basketball at Northern Arizona (1987-88).
SANFORD ON HERRING: "Caleb Herring possesses a tremendous combination of throwing ability, running ability, height and athleticism. He can scramble or sit in the pocket and is very accurate. He committed to us in June and had a lot of interest in him but never wavered and we are excited he is a Rebel quarterback."

SIDNEY HODGE
DB 5-8 160 FR-HS North Las Vegas, NV Palo Verde HS
A two-way star for local power Palo Verde HS who projects as a defensive back for the Rebels ... Listed No. 157 in the nation as an Athlete by Scouts, Inc. HIGH SCHOOL: Lettered twice for Palo Verde HS after moving to Las Vegas from Texas ... Helped the Panthers to a 14-1 overall record and a runner-up finish in the state championship game as a senior for coach Darwin Rost ... Named second team all-state on defense ... Had 113 carries for 358 yards and eight touchdowns and 14 receptions for 233 yards and four more scores ... Made 39 tackles and seven interceptions from the defensive backfield ... Played his freshman and sophomore seasons at Moody HS in Corpus Christi. PERSONAL: Sidney Quinn Hodge was born on March 6, 1991, in Corpus Christi, TX ... The son of Brenda Jackson and George Hodge ... Has two brothers and one sister.
SANFORD ON HODGE: "Sidney Hodge is an excellent athlete from state runner-up Palo Verde, which is one of the top programs in the state. He played both running back and defensive back but he will concentrate on being a defensive back with us."

NATE HOLLOWAY
DL 6-3 320 FR-HS North Las Vegas, NV Spring Valley HS
A big run stopper in the middle who is the first Rebel football signee from local Spring Valley High ... A three-star recruit who is listed as the No. 68 defensive tackle in the nation by Rivals, the No. 73 DT by Scouts, Inc. and the No. 87 DT by Scout ... Also ranked as the No. 8 recruit in the state of Nevada by Rivals. HIGH SCHOOL: A four-year letterwinner at Spring Valley HS under coach Kelley Murphy ... Helped the Grizzlies to an 8-2 record in 2008 ... Earned first team All-Sunset Region as an offensive lineman and second team honors as a defensive lineman in 2008 ... Also named First Team All-Southwest Region on both sides of the ball ... A first team all-state selection on offense ... Also competed in baseball, basketball and track. PERSONAL: Nathaniel Iaone Holloway was born on June 3, 1991, in Tacoma, WA ... The son of Timena and John Holloway ... Has two sisters.
SANFORD ON HOLLOWAY: "Nate Holloway is a local guy who came to our Big Man camp in June and showed great physical size and excellent athletic ability to go along with that frame. Has a great future as a defensive lineman."

THOMAS KILGORE
OL 6-4 310 FR-HS Fresno, CA San Joaquin Memorial HS
One of four offensive linemen signed by the Rebels this year ... A nice-sized prospect who could play either guard or tackle in college and compete for time immediately ... Chose UNLV over offers from Bowling Green, UNR and San Diego State. HIGH SCHOOL: Lettered three times at San Joaquin Memorial HS in Fresno, CA ... Helped lead the Panthers to an 8-4 record and the 2008 North Yosemite League championship in 2008 ... Played under coach Anthony Goston ... Did not give up a sack while playing left tackle as a senior ... Created running lanes for a 1,000-yard rusher ... Earned first team all-state, first team all-league and second team all-valley as a senior ... Named first team all-league as a junior as well as a nose tackle ... Competed in the shot put in track and field. PERSONAL: Thomas Isaac Kilgore was born on Sept. 14, 1990, in San Luis Obispo, CA. ... The son of Jennifer and Ken Kilgore ... Has an older brother, Joseph.
SANFORD ON KILGORE: "Thomas Kilgore is a big, physical offensive lineman from Fresno who will add depth to an offensive line that continues to improve each year."

ANDREW MACK
C 6-2 285 FR-HS Plano, TX Plano West HS
One of two Texas recruits in this class who will join nine other Rebels from the Lone Star State on the current roster ... Expected to compete for time at center this fall. HIGH SCHOOL: A three-time letterwinner Plano West HS in Plano, TX ... Played for coach Mike Hughes ... A 2008 first team all-district selection at center ... Earned honorable mention all-district as a sophomore and junior ... Also played hockey in high school. PERSONAL: Andrew Michael Mack was born on Nov. 10, 1990, in Belleville, IL ... The son of Debbie and Michael Mack ... Has two brothers, Danny and Ryan, and a sister, Mandi ... Brother Danny played collegiate soccer at St. Louis and his sister played soccer for Brown University.
SANFORD ON MACK: "In this class we wanted to get a center with experience as a shotgun snapper and Andrew Mack fills that bill. He was a very good player in the top level of Texas football."

BRADLEY RANDLE
RB 5-8 195 FR-HS Murrieta, CA Vista Murrieta HS
A scintillating talent who starred on both sides of the ball against high-level high school competition and is expected to challenge for time at running back and kickoff returner as a freshman for the Rebels this fall ... Ranked as the No. 50 running back in the nation by both Scout and Rivals, who assigned him three stars ... Listed as the No. 57 recruit in the state of California by the Contra Costa Times ... Competed in the Inland Empire All-Star Football Classic on Jan. 10 along with fellow Rebel signee Caleb Herring ... The son of longtime pro baseball player Lenny Randle, who played for six different clubs during his MLB career from 1971-82, including five seasons with the Texas Rangers ... Chose the Rebels over offers from schools such as Washington State, Boise State and New Mexico. HIGH SCHOOL: Lettered three times for Vista Murrieta HS and coach Coley Candaele as a RB and CB... Tabbed All-Southern Section Inland Division at a utility player by the Orange County Register ... Named All-Southwest League at RB in 2007 and '08 ... Played in the 2008 Inland All-Stars Football Classic ... Rushed for 1,593 yards and 22 touchdowns as a senior ... Added 20 receptions for 206 yards three more scores ... Also returned eight kickoffs for 286 yards (35.8 YPR) ... As a junior ran for 976 yards and 11 touchdowns and caught 14 passes for 286 yards and four TDs. ... Helped the Broncos to 10-0 records and conference titles in both 2006 and '07 ... A three-sport star who also lettered in baseball and track & field ... A top student who earned multiple academic awards. PERSONAL: Bradley I. Randle was born on Sept. 17, 1990, in Anaheim, CA ... The son of Lenny and Linda Randle ... Has two older brothers, Ahmad and Ture.
SANFORD ON RANDLE: "Bradley Randle is a difference-making running back who drew a lot of interest from a lot of programs but committed to the Rebels and never looked back. He has the ability to make people miss and take it for a home run. He is also a top return guy who will compete to be on kickoffs."

IRSHAD STOLDEN
WR 5-9 160 FR-HS Rancho Cucamonga, CA Rancho Cucamonga HS
An exciting receiver who will help upgrade the program's team speed ... Chose the Rebels over an offer from Fresno State. HIGH SCHOOL: Earned three letters as a wide receiver and kick returner at Rancho Cucamonga HS ... Part of a Cougar squad that went 13-0-1 and won the CIF Southern Section Central Division championship under coach Nick Baiz ... Hauled in 48 catches for 946 yards and seven touchdowns ... Averaged 19.7 yards per catch on his way to being named First Team All-Baseline League and First Team All-CIF Central Division as a senior ... Named his team's best wide receiver and a San Bernardino County All-Star in 2008 ... Made 36 catches for 547 yards and five scores during his junior season ... Earned First Team All-Baseline League in 2007 ... Also was a sprinter on the track and field team. PERSONAL: Irshad Jamal Stolden was born on May 22, 1991, in Pomona, CA ... The son of Sheila Stolden.
SANFORD ON STOLDEN: "We wanted to address improvement of our team speed. Irshad Stolden helps us do that. He is a burner that will make plays for us."

MARCUS SULLIVAN
WR 5-10 170 FR-HS North Las Vegas, NV Cheyenne HS
A speedy, two-way local prep star that will play receiver for the Rebels ... Ranked the No. 14 recruit in the state of Nevada by Rivals ... May see immediate playing time. HIGH SCHOOL: Earned three letters at Cheyenne HS ... Helped the Eagles go 10-2 in 2008 ... Named the Sunset Offensive Player of the Year after he rushed for 1,626 yards and 22 touchdowns on 112 carries ... Averaged 11.4 yards per carry on his way to being named first team all-state and all-region as a senior ... His coach, Charles Anthony, was a standout DB for the Rebels from 1987-90 ... Also a sprinter on the track and field team and won 2007 state championship as part of the 4x400 relay team. PERSONAL: Vandrell LaMarcus Sullivan was born on March 1, 1991, in Jackson, MS ... Goes by Marcus ... The son of Venissa Lindsey ... Has two brothers and a sister.
SANFORD ON SULLIVAN: "It's great to get a local player who addresses several needs on our team. Marcus Sullivan is one of the fastest players in the state of Nevada. He will be an H-back for us and we expect him to make an immediate impact."

JOHN THERRELL
DB 6-1 170 FR-HS Las Vegas, NV Bishop Gorman HS
Another defender from local power Bishop Gorman High, joining fellow signee Charles Childers and current Rebel Beau Orth ... A playmaker with a nose for the football who led the state in interceptions last fall ... Competed for the West in the Offense-Defense All-American Bowl held in Conway, S.C. on Jan. 7 along with Childers ... Chose UNLV over Air Force and Navy. HIGH SCHOOL: Lettered in his only season at Bishop Gorman HS ... Transferred to the Las Vegas school from Kentucky where he played at Murray HS his first three seasons ... Caught 44 passes for 519 yards and seven TDs as a junior in the Blue Grass State ... Made 37 tackles and his eight interceptions led the state of Nevada in 2008 ... Was a First Team All-Sunset West selection and a Second Team All-Sunset pick as a senior ... Also named second team all-state ... Also has competed in track and field during his high school career. PERSONAL: John Edward Therrell was born on May 1, 1991, in Williamsport, PA ... The son of Dawn and Dennis Therrell ... Has a younger brother, Cody, and a younger sister, Abby ... His father is the defensive coordinator at UNLV.
SANFORD ON THERRELL: "John Therrell will come in and make an impact as a safety in our program. He has a history of creating turnovers, leading the state in interceptions last season."

REGGIE UMUOLO
LB 5-10 205 FR-HS Phoenix, AZ Centennial HS
A talented linebacker with good speed from a top Arizona football program ... One of the program's earliest commitments, making his choice during the summer ... Listed as the No. 105 WLB in the nation by Scout and No. 185 OLB by Scouts, Inc. HIGH SCHOOL: Earned three letters at Centennial HS in Peoria, AZ ... In that span he helped the Coyotes to a 41-1 combined record and three state championships, including 14-0 marks in 2006 and 2008 ... Played for coach Richard Taylor ... Made 88 tackles had 4.5 sacks and two interceptions as a senior ... Tallied 92 tackles and four sacks during junior season ... A two-time second team all-region selection (2007-08) ... Competed in the triple jump in track and field. PERSONAL: Reginald Trayvon Umuolo was born on March 29, 1991, in Phoenix ... The son of Olive and Humphrey Umuolo ... Has two brothers, Charles and Alston, and a sister, Monique ... His brother Charles is currently a tight end at San Diego State.
SANFORD ON UMUOLO: "Reggie Umuolo took an official visit during the season and stuck with us. He is an extremely fast linebacker who comes from one of the top football programs in the West."

ROBERT WATERMAN
OL 6-2 275 FR-HS Castaic, CA West Ranch HS
A still-growing offensive line prospect who is one of four blockers in this year's class ... A two-way lineman as a prepster who projects as an offensive tackle for the Rebels. HIGH SCHOOL: A three-time letterwinner at West Ranch HS in Stevenson, CA ... Played under coach Mike Kane ... Named First Team All-Foothill League as a junior and senior ... Had more than 100 pancake blocks over his final two prep seasons playing guard and tackle ... Also posted 16 tackles as a defensive tackle in 2008. PERSONAL: Robert Philip Waterman was born Sept. 16, 1991, in Panorama City, CA. ... The son of Carol and Wayne Waterman ... Has two brothers, Daniel and Nathan.
SANFORD ON WATERMAN: "Robert Waterman is a young offensive lineman who will develop into a big, physical offensive tackle for the Rebels."

DOUG ZISMANN
OL 6-3 285 FR-HS Phoenix, AZ Shadow Mountain HS
One of the nation's top centers who could play guard for the Rebels ... A three-star recruit that is listed as the No. 18 center in the country by Rivals, No. 29 by Scout and No. 37 by Scouts, Inc. ... Rivals also placed him No. 23 overall in the state of Arizona ... A strong, physical player who is also a top wrestler ... Chose UNLV over offers from the three service academies. HIGH SCHOOL: Lettered four times at Shadow Mountain HS in Phoenix ... Played along both the offensive and defensive line for the Matadors under coach Josh Sekoch ... A three-time all-region and two-time all-state selection as an offensive lineman ... Earned All Arizona Offensive Line in 2008 ... Also competed in wrestling and track and field. PERSONAL: Douglas Robert Zismann was born on Nov. 20, 1990, in Phoenix ... The son of Nancy and Robert Zismann ... Has a younger brother, Matthew.
SANFORD ON ZISMANN: "Doug Zismann will be an interior lineman center/guard who will have the opportunity to come in and compete to be in our top rotation right away."