Junior college QB Stanton commits to UNLV

The battle to become UNLV's next starting quarterback just became more intense.

Johnny Stanton of Saddleback College in Mission Viejo, Calif., said Sunday night he had committed to the Rebels.

"I liked what Coach (Tony) Sanchez is trying to do at the school," Stanton said. "He's bringing a winning mindset. He really knows what it's like to win in Las Vegas. He's doing all the things you need to do to turn around the program."

Stanton spent his first two seasons at Nebraska before transferring to Saddleback. At Nebraska, he played under Barney Cotton and John Garrison. Cotton is the Rebels' offensive coordinator and Garrison their offensive line coach.

"It's really nice having that familiarity with Coach Cotton and Coach Garrison," Stanton said. "They're really good coaches, and the whole team will do well under them."

Stanton (6 feet 2 inches, 230 pounds) gives the Rebels 12 commitments. His decision also means Cisco (Texas) College quarterback Richard Lagow won't be part of the Rebels' future. Lagow said he would decide today among UNLV, Indiana and Colorado State.

— Contact Mark Anderson at manderson@reviewjournal.com or 702-387-2914. Follow him on Twitter: @markanderson65