'Almost' at the arch
Brian ManzulloST. LOUIS - With more than 30,000 watching at the Scottrade Center Saturday, Mike Miller entered the center mat as a heavy underdog against the nation's top 174-pounder.
The sophomore was down 6-3 midway through the second period to Michigan's Steve Luke, and his hopes of a national title were slipping through his hands.
Miller was still struggling to gain his first takedown of the match.
"None of my stuff was working so I looked to coach," Miller said. "He had a different perspective on the mat. I looked to see if he had any suggestions for me on how to get a takedown and get back in the match."
When the final whistle blew, Miller lost a 8-4 decision.
Luke earned three takedowns during the match, but Miller was never able to get one of his own. Three escapes kept the match within four points, but Miller was unable to get any closer.
"I rushed some of my shots," Miller said. "He was able to get in on my leg too easily. I didn't stick to my game plan."
Luke capped off a perfect season with the win. The win was his 32nd consecutive.
"Nobody gives Luke the credit he deserves," Borrelli said. "He was undefeated all year, he was the No. 1 seed coming into the tournament. He was a finalist last year, but he kind of flew under the radar."
Miller continued to attack Luke as the finals seconds ticked off the clock, but he was never able to earn the takedown he needed.
Luke dropped to his knees when the match was over and relished his last victory of his college career. Miller helped Luke to his feet, hugged him, shook his hand and stepped off the mat. After the match, Miller thought ahead to next season.
"I have 12 months to get better," Miller said. "When people are eliminating my technique, I have to learn to adapt and overcome."
Miller advanced to the finals after defeating No. 3 seed Brandon Browne from Nebraska and No. 2 seed Michael Cannon from American University.
Miller earned All-America honors for the second time after taking an Olympic redshirt in 2007-08.
"I think I am on track to be a national champion," Miller said. "That was my goal when I first got to college. I want to be a national champion. That's my goal for next year."
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