Utah football's recruiting efforts in Texas are paying dividends.

Over the past couple of days, three high school players from the Lone Star State have pledged to sign letters-of-intent with the Utes in February. That raises the number of Texans who have given non-binding early commitments for 2010 to four.

Jacoby Hale, a linebacker from Beaumont Central, announced his intentions earlier.

The newest additions include running backs Princeton Collins (Westwood HS, Round Rock) and Josh Huff (Nimitz HS, Aldine); as well as safety/wide receiver Terrell Reese (Brenham HS).

"I just like the way they run their offense," said Collins, who rushed for 1,525 yards and 13 touchdowns last season. The 6-foot, 190-pounder also caught 37 passes for 339 yards and three scores.

Huff, who is 5-foot-10 and 185 pounds, reeled off a list of reasons why he accepted Utah's offer.

The Sugar Bowl had an impact, Huff explained, as did the program's tradition of winning and progress. Academics were also a factor. Huff plans to pursue premed studies.

Reese, a 6-foot-2, 190-pound dual threat, vows to fit in wherever he is needed. Reese, who will most likely be a safety in college, was impressed with the Utes after watching the Sugar Bowl. Finishing the season ranked No. 2 in the nation was also a factor in choosing Utah over Nebraska.

"I'm very comfortable," he said of his decision.

The Texans are joined in the 2010 recruiting class, thus far, by Timpanogos defensive end Joe Kruger.

TRACKSTERS TO COMPETE AT NCAA CHAMPIONSHIPS: Senior Chelsea Shapard and junior Sarah Grimm will represent the Utes next week at the NCAA Track and Field Championships in Fayetteville, Ark. Shapard earned an automatic bid in the 400-meter hurdles while Grimm gained an at-large bid in the hammer throw.

CATCHER NAMED FRESHMAN ALL-AMERICAN: Utah freshman catcher and designated hitter C.J. Cron has been selected as a Louisville Slugger Freshman All-American, as chosen by Collegiate Baseball.

Cron, who was named as the Freshman of the Year in the Mountain West Conference, hit .337 for the year and led the Utes in hits (83), doubles (19), home runs (11) and RBI (58). He had a team-best 16-game hitting streak during the season and led Utah with 16 multiple RBI games. Cron also had 26 multiple hit games. He was named to the MWC All-Tournament team, hitting five doubles and driving in five runs during the tournament. Cron also hit two home runs and drove in six during the NCAA Regional. One of his biggest accomplishments this year was being the only player in the country to get three hits in a game off San Diego State ace and future potential No. 1 draft pick Stephen Strasburg.