Brown

JACKSON TWP — Last season, C.J. Brown took a big step toward becoming one of the best quarterbacks in the WPIAL.

Last week, he took another important step.

Brown, a junior at Seneca Valley, verbally committed to accept a scholarship from the University of Maryland. He will sign a letter of intent later.

Maryland was one of several Division I schools who showed interest in the 6-foot-3, 190-pound resident of Cranberry Township.

That list included Virginia, Pittsburgh, Penn State, Northwestern, Stanford and Akron.

"I visited (Maryland) March 8 and again earlier this month," said Brown. "I really liked the college-town atmosphere and the fact that it's a large school.

"It's a place I can see myself at for four years," he added. "I met Coach (James) Franklin, who is the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach, and Coach (Ralph) Friedgen, the head coach. They run a spread offense and that caught my eye."

After limited playing time his sophomore year, Brown emerged as the leader of SV's offense in 2007.

He threw for 1,566 yards and 11 touchdowns and added 422 rushing yards and five scores on the ground.

His play helped the Raiders qualify for the WPIAL playoffs for the first time in five seasons.

"As a sophomore, we could see there was potential with his ability to escape pressure," said Raiders coach Ron Butschle. "And last year, his athletic ability allowed him to make plays within our offensive scheme."

Brown is pleased he was able to put such a big decision behind him.

"Making a decision now will allow me to relax and enjoy my senior season," Brown said. "It takes a lot of stress out of it."

Brown, who is considering a major in business, plans to attend Maryland's spring game Saturday.

He is also a star basketball player at SV.

"I enjoy playing basketball and I'm looking forward to my senior season. I wouldn't miss it."

Friedgen has coached Maryland for the last seven seasons and the Terrapins have compiled a 56-31 record in that span.

The program is coming off a 6-7 season, which included a 21-14 loss to Oregon State in the Emerald Bowl in December.