As LOI’s came flying there was more uncertainty than in recent years for the University of Utah, but there was one silent commit they weren’t sweating. San Pedro HS defensive linemen, Nick Ford took everyone to “the flagpole,” on Wednesday at 1PM PST, as the Utes won the fight for the freakishly athletic defensive lineman.

“It feels awesome. I know it’s a great place,” said Ford. “I love the city, I love the people there, and I’m going to rep it to the best of my ability and definitely make my mark.”

Ford caught up with Ute nation before his commitment became public, during which he said that everything about Utah just won him over during his official visit.

“I would just say, everything overall,” he said. “That was the best place I stayed, best people I’ve met—it was just overall, it topped out every other school. Don’t get me wrong, Colorado had a good program, Washington, and Cal, but other schools were like ‘A-’s’ and Utah was like an ‘A+,’ you know.”

Finding the right family vibe was key for Ford, but there was more to it, that stood out for the Utes. “They all had good family vibes. I think part of the reason Utah got to me a little more—Coach Shah is from Englewood, Davir (Hamilton) he’s from Long Beach,” said Ford. “There’s a lot of city boys, so we got to relate on certain things. They knew how it was growing up in LA and they showed that they really cared for everyone on the team. They’re going to do everything to make sure you’re alright and you’re doing the best that you can possibly do—academically, socially, and on the football field.”

His decision was made and the commitment was given, as Ford left Head Coach Kyle Whittingham’s office during his official. He asked that it be kept silent, but he informed only a few guys, including his lead recruiter, Shah. When given the news, Shah showed the same emotions he’s known for on the football field. “He just started screaming, ‘Oh yeah! I’m happy.’ He came up to me and gave me a big hug,” said Ford. “He was saying he’s so grateful and so excited for what’s to come.”

From there, Ford went home to inform his parents. “They just asked if I knew what I was getting myself into and I said, yeah,” according to Ford. “So, they told me, it’s my decision and they were proud of what I’ve done so far, but the work’s not over.”

Until he arrives on campus, Ford will continue being his normal self: working out, playing the piano, and going surfing while he still can. He’s been getting trained these last two years by, former Ute Pene Talamaivao, through Prime Time Polynesian.

“I feel like he was a major key in my development as the player I am today,” said Ford “I’ve been working out with him about two years, now. He’s a great guy to get to know. He’s very humble and he’s wiling to help everyone. He wants to do the best for every kid he comes in contact with.”

With that, Ford has one he wants to say to Ute Nation, after the team’s victory by “the flagpole,” today. “Feel free to any time you see me or want to reach out to me, go ahead and reach out. I’m a nice guy,” he said. “Utah’s one of the best places in the world. Go Utes!”

Westlee Tonga's Film Review on Nick Ford-

Nick is a big, solid player! He played both ways in high school, but Whittingham loves him for the defensive line, where he could be an asset immediately. He is nimble for his size, has great length, and the Utah strength program will do wonders for him.