Kaysville (Utah) Davis defensive end James Cowser has made his college choice and he'll be staying in-state.
"James has committed to accept a full-ride scholarship to attend Southern Utah University," said his mother, Kelly. "There were a lot of factors that went into his decision. The opportunity to get an excellent education with a full scholarship was appealing."
Cowser was one of the top pass-rushers in the Beehive State this year, and was coming off a fine senior season.
His official visit to Southern Utah made a big impact on him.
"During his recruiting trip to SUU, James really felt a connection with the coaches and was very impressed with the direction this new coaching staff, one year in led by Coach Lamb is taking," said Kelly Cowser. "SUU is developing into a real class program with a strong focus on hard work, execution, team, skill development, character, and a commitment to winning."
The Thunderbird program is also widely regarded by the administration.
"SUU is also getting great support from their new university president, President Benson who is rallying the community and providing the resources needed to build a successful program," said Kelly Cowser. "James is excited about the opportunity to work his tail off, learn all he can from these great coaches, and have the chance to help build a tradition of winning at SUU. Southern Utah was also very supportive of James' plans to serve an LDS mission. He'll play a season first, and then head off after that."
Cowser finished his 2008 senior season with 94 tackles, 39 for loss, 19 hurries, 14 sacks, 14 knockdowns, a forced fumble and a fumble recovery for Davis. He was Named Region I Defensive Player of the Year, the Standard Examiner "Standard Star" Prep Athlete of the Week, Deseret News Defensive Player of the Week and Wendy's High School Heisman Award School Winner. He was also named First Team All-State as a senior by the Deseret News and the Salt Lake Tribune.