Hard-Working Miller Gives His All for Huskers

By Christina Deck
Lincoln -- I-Back Robin Miller entered his senior campaign boasting the necessary skills to make a difference on the field.

Last week at Southern Miss, Miller showcased those skills as he scored on a career-long touchdown run with a 47-yard scamper to finish as the leading rusher in the game. He was prepared for the moment despite having played in just eight games during his career, carrying 10 times for 38 yards and one touchdown.

"I had a great opportunity and I had to take advantage of it," Miller said. "Hopefully I can have a few more this year. The opportunities I do have, I want to make the most of."

Miller has been a physical player, seeing some time at fullback, but in last week's contest showed why he has also been a contender at the I-back spot.

"Mentally, it helped me to learn both of the positions better, whether I am seeing things or going through holes," Miller said. "I also worked on my blocking and it helped me in a lot of areas."

His experience at both positions has allowed him to be a more versatile performer on the playing field. Miller hopes to make more of an impact this season by contributing to Nebraska's run-oriented offense.

Miller is ready to play any role in the Husker backfield in his final season.

"He's very team-oriented. We ask Robin to do a lot of things. He's a backup at the I-back spot and getting reps at that position and when we have to have an extra-good look scout-team-wise, he's a guy who has no problem going out and giving our defense a look," I-backs coach Tim Albin said.

"When we're facing a team like Oklahoma State, he was Tatum Bell all that week. The wins are great, but working with great kids like Robin and all the I-backs, that's why coaching is a great profession."

Off the field, Miller has demonstrated that he is a hard worker. He made significant strides during the off-season, and was one of seven finalists for the NU Lifter-of-the-Year Award.

In addition, Miller had the highest Performance Index on the team at pre-winter conditioning with 2,587 points. During his Nebraska career he has improved his index by 568 points.

"It is something that I am pleased about," Miller said. "Coming in and working hard and getting results out of what I did, I was really happy about that. I enjoy working out all the time, it is something I look forward to."

A native of Kent, Wash., Miller is currently studying history and plans to graduate in May 2004. Before coming to Nebraska, he was a standout athlete at Kent-Meridian High School playing running back and outside linebacker.

Nebraska has become a second home to Miller. He has enjoyed the school's atmosphere and opportunities afforded to him. Miller said his years at Nebraska have provided experiences he will carry with him the rest of his life.

"I miss Washington in the summer, but it has been good getting the opportunity to meet different people and getting to know them," Miller said. "It has been a beneficial experience to me."