Burwell Commits to Iowa State

Sean Burwell, a Cleveland High running back-defensive back, verbally committed to Iowa State on Tuesday, choosing the Big Eight Conference school over Pacific 10 members Arizona, Oregon and Oregon State.

In addition, linemen Todd Steussie of Agoura and John Garrett of Glendale have verbally committed to attend Pac-10 schools. Steussie (6 feet, 6 inches, 235 pounds), a two-way starter, committed to Cal after a weekend trip to the Berkeley campus, and Garrett (6-4, 250) committed to Oregon State.

Burwell, a Times All-Valley selection as a defensive back, visited Iowa State in December and favored the Cyclones in part because they recruited him as a running back. Burwell (6-0, 185) rushed for 1,145 yards and averaged 8 yards a carry in 1988.

Steussie, an all-state defensive end and a first-team Times All-Valley selection, had taken one recruiting trip to Oregon State and had another to UCLA scheduled but cancelled after his 3-day trip to Cal.

Garrett, an All-Southern Section Division II selection as a defensive lineman, was named the Glendale Lineman of the Year by The Times.

Players may officially sign letters of intent next Wednesday.