Three University of Utah students, including two...

Three University of Utah students, including two of last season’s top football players, appeared before a federal magistrate on charges alleging they conspired to distribute cocaine.

Magistrate Ronald Boyce ordered sophomore fullback Martel Black, from National City, Calif., and student Samuel A. Simmons of Los Angeles detained at a federal halfway house, allowing them both to be released for school and work, if they obtain jobs. Black quit the football team in spring.

Boyce ordered sophomore wide receiver Darren Hughes, from Lynwood, to report daily to probation officers, post $500 bond in one week and maintain enrollment. Last year Hughes was the Utes’ leading receiver and was fifth in the Western Athletic Conference in kickoff returns.