Sophomore defensive tackle Sheldon Miller was one of many JV call-ups by coach Blair Roman this week, and the 220-pounder ended up seeing extensive action.
Miller was pressed into service when Cameron Radtke injured his knee in pre-game warm-ups prior to Friday’s 42-7 first-round playoff win over McQueen Friday night at the Jim Frank Track & Field Complex.
“I was going through the warm-up against the scout offensive team when I heard something pop,” Radtke said, as he watched the game in street clothes late in the fourth quarter.
“It might be my meniscus.”
“I don’t know what his status is for next week,” Roman said. “He’s had problems before.”
Radtke had injured his ankle last week, causing him to miss some practice time.
The injury forced defensive coordinator Steve Dilley and line coach Vic Castro to mix and match their personnel.
Miller was up to the task, getting to McQueen quarterback Johnathan Wethee for an 8-yard loss on a first-and-10 play in the first quarter. Wethee threw one of is four interceptions on the next play, which Carson turned into a Colby Brown TD and a 14-0 lead.
“I was really nervous,” Miller said.
“I had to get ready really fast. Getting the sack was really big.”
Miller wasn’t the only youngster who played well, as Roman emptied his bench in the fourth quarter.
Greg Wallace saw action on both offense and defense. He carried four times for 34 yards and also had a tackle. Freshman Abel Carter carried one time for a yard, and the play was called back when his older brother, Asa, was called for a penalty.
“Sheldon did a nice job,” Roman said. “He’s still learning. He’s a physical kid and he’ll help us. Greg (Wallace) is an outstanding athlete.”
Expect to see both next week against Reno.
