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The Backstory: The Arizona State football program has earned a nickname over the years. "Tight end U." The number 86 has gone a long way in earning that name, as it was worn by Zach Miller from 2004-2006.
Miller was a local product, coming to Arizona State from Desert Vista high school in Phoenix. He was an All-American in high school and came to ASU with lofty expectations. And Miller exceeded them.
The Player: Zach Miller (2004-2006)
Miller was the Pac-10 Freshman of the Year in 2004, after starting all 12 games. He caught 56 passes for 552 yards and six touchdowns in 2004, breaking every major freshman receiving record at ASU and earning him second team All-American status by the Sporting News and Rivals.com.
In 2006, Miller became ASU's first consensus All-American since Terrell Suggs. Miller caught 50 passes for 484 yards and four touchdowns, earning him second team All-American by Associated Press. He was one of three finalists for the John Mackey Award (top TE).
The Phoenix native finished his career ranked sixth in school history in total receptions and finished as ASU's all-time leader in receptions and touchdown catches by a tight end.
After the 2006 season, Miller declared himself as an early entry for the NFL Draft.
Pro Career
Miller was drafted in the second round by the Oakland Radiers. He played four seasons in the Silver and Black, making the Pro Bowl in 2010. In 2011, he signed a contract with the Seattle Seahawks, where he currently plays.
Miller has amassed 3,341 receiving yards and 15 touchdowns in his professional career.
Honorable Mentions
Willie Scroggins (1975-1976)
Scroggins was a defensive tackle for the Sun Devils in the mid-70's. He was an All-WAC selection in 1975, leading Arizona State in tackles for loss (14) and finishing fourth in total tackles (102) that season.
Sam Johnson (1972-1973)
Johnson was a defensive end for the Sun Devils, being named to the All-WAC team in 1973.
Who wears it now
No. 86 is currently not worn by any current Sun Devil. However, one of the new tight end recruits would be wise to pick up these lucky digits.
Other famous 86s
Hines Ward: The Pittsburgh Steeler wide receiver was a four-time Pro Bowler and a two-time Super Bowl champion. Ward played from 1998-2011 with the Black and Gold and is the Steelers all-time leader in receptions, receiving yards and receiving touchdowns.