BYU receives pledge from All-American QB

The quarterback era after Max Hall just got more dramatic on Memorial Day when one of the most prolific quarterbacks in high school history announced he would sign with BYU.

Riley Nelson, a Parade All-America QB from Logan, who attended Utah State as a freshman before going on an LDS mission, will play at BYU upon his return from Barcelona, Spain in March 2009, according to his father, Keith Nelson.

With permission from his mission president, Nelson and BYU coaches have communicated through e-mail and came to an understanding about Nelson transferring to BYU. Nelson informed his parents of the decision on Monday morning, a national holiday.

"He looked at this from an emotional, academic and athletic perspective and decided this was the best thing for him to do," said Keith Nelson.

At 6 foot-1, Nelson was one of the bright spots for the Aggies when he took over QB duties during a dismal season two years ago.

Nelson he sat behind Leon Jackson III for the first five games and watched Jackson implode, and finally in Game 6 Nelson made his first start and led the Aggies to the 13-12 victory over Fresno State for their only win of the 2006 season.

For the year, he threw for 874 yards and six touchdowns, while throwing six interceptions. He also rushed for 277 yards, second-best on the team.

With that win, Nelson was the first Utah State quarterback since Anthony Calvillo in 1992 to win in his first career start.

While at Utah State, Nelson set the USU record for percent completions for a game by completing 21 of 24 passes (84 percent) against San Jose State. He was voted a 2006 year team captain (one of three) by teammates.

Nelson's football resume is as good as they come — regardless of competition.

"Riley believes he has a lot to learn from BYU quarterback coach Brandon Doman. He respects him and is looking forward to working with him. Riley wanted to get this decision out of the way so he could focus on the most important thing in his life right now, his mission work, which he loves," said Keith.