Waubonsie's Merritt likes look of New Mexico

Spencer Merritt has quick reactions on the football field -- and off it, too.

It took one official college visit for the all-state Waubonsie Valley linebacker to make his choice.

His choice is New Mexico.

Last weekend on the Albuquerque campus, Merritt received a scholarship offer and gave his verbal commitment on the spot, according to Waubonsie Valley coach Paul Murphy, confirming a story by "Edgy" Tim O'Halloran on Rivals.com.

"That was his dream, to play Division I college football," Murphy said. "That's what he wanted to do and I don't think it could happen to a nicer young man."

Merritt could not be reached for comment.

Now 6-foot-2 and 195 pounds, Merritt was named the Upstate Eight Conference's defensive MVP in 2007, his second season as a starter.

An all-state middle linebacker who played outside his junior season, as a senior Merritt was credited with 94 solo tackles, 28 assists, 12 tackles for loss and 7 passes defended.

In his final high school game, a 10-6 playoff loss to Hinsdale Central, he led the Warriors with 6 solos and 5 assisted tackles.

A sprinter on the Waubonsie Valley track team, Merritt's speed and instincts drew an offer last summer from Wyoming. He also interested Southern Illinois and the service academies.

"He didn't see himself being an officer when he graduated," Murphy said.

Merritt was recruited by former University of Illinois assistant coach Osiah Lewis, now a linebackers coach at New Mexico.

The Lobos, out of the Mountain West Conference, finished 9-4 last season. They won their first bowl game in 46 years, 23-0 over Nevada in the New Mexico Bowl.

They just got a little quicker.

"He brings speed, agility and the ability to hit you hard," Murphy said of Merritt.

"He's a very determined young man, he's got a good nose for the football, and I think he'll fit very well in their scheme of things. They're talking about using him at outside linebacker to use his speed."