Sunlake High running back Nathan Merriman picked up a college football offer Friday from Minot State University in North Dakota.

The offer comes four days after Merriman, a senior, broke the Seahawks' single-game rushing record with 262 yards on 30 carries in a 27-20 win over Tampa's Wharton on Monday. As we reported Wednesday, that performance shattered the previous mark of 235 yards.

"Blessed and honored to receive an offer from Minot State University! Huge thank you to the coaching staff for believing in me and giving me this opportunity," Merriman wrote on X Friday.

Minot State plays in NCAA Division II

Minot State competes in NCAA Division II's Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference in Minot, North Dakota.

The 5-foot-10, 180-pound tailback wears No. 21 and lists a 4.40-second 40-yard dash and a 38-inch vertical jump on his recruiting profile. He is a Class of 2027 senior at Sunlake in Land O' Lakes.

Coach praises back's speed, physicality

Merriman missed most of the 2025 season with an injury. He returned this fall and has rushed for 377 yards and two touchdowns on 40 carries through two games played. He also placed third at the state weightlifting championship in June.

First-year Sunlake head coach Chris DiGiacomo told On3 on Wednesday that Merriman "is a tough and physical player with top level speed" who "excels both running between the tackles and outside."

DiGiacomo added that a number of college coaches have recruited Merriman but that he believes the back is still flying under the radar and deserves more attention.

Seahawks sit at 2-2 this season

The Seahawks opened the 2026 season with a 13-6 win over Central before falling 20-14 to Bradenton Bayshore on Aug. 28, according to the Tampa Bay Beacons. Sunlake then beat Wharton in the record-breaking game and now sits at 2-2.

Merriman posted his senior highlight reel on Tuesday, writing on X: "Missing time last year only made me hungrier. Huge shoutout to my O-line and coaches for putting me in a position to make plays. ..."

Next game set for Sept. 25

The Sunlake recruiting account amplified the Minot State news Friday, calling it a milestone for the program.

Sunlake's next game is Friday, Sept. 25, against Wiregrass Ranch.