Aurora Christian Defense: Twin's Injury Spurs Solo Record
Brayden Miller leads his team to a state playoff berth after his identical twin brother broke a leg in October.
By Mariam Saleh ·
Aurora Christian football fans watched their team advance to the Class 2A state quarterfinals after a winning streak began in mid-October. The Eagles defeated Maroa-Forsyth 27-6 last week, securing their spot in the state tournament. They play El Paso-Gridley at 5 p.m. on Saturday. This progress came after the team lost its starting linebacker in the fifth week of the season.
Brayden Miller, a junior linebacker and tight end, has played without his identical twin brother Bryce since a loss to Bishop McNamara on October 17. Bryce suffered a broken fibula during that 42-22 defeat. He has worn a walking boot since the injury. Miller said he struggled to focus on the game immediately after the incident because he worried about his brother's well-being.
The twins, both listed at 5-foot-10 and 165 pounds, moved to Aurora Christian in the middle of sixth grade. Their physical similarity often confuses teammates. Middle linebacker Justin Douglas said he can distinguish between them now after knowing them for years. He noted that seeing them side by side can be difficult for new observers. The twins also compete in basketball, where they frequently play one-on-one.
Douglas and Miller have engaged in a personal competition for the team lead in total tackles. Douglas entered the recent game with a one-tackle advantage over Miller. Miller finished the contest with 105 total tackles, while Douglas recorded 109. The Eagles' defense held Maroa-Forsyth scoreless in the second half of that game. Miller credited the team's halftime adjustment for the improved performance.
Miller recorded 49 solo tackles during the regular season. This total sets a new single-season record for Aurora Christian. The previous best was 48, set by safety Brandon Mayes in 2012. Mayes later played college football at Northern Illinois. Coach David Beebe said Miller usually plays on the outside but can move inside depending on the play call. Beebe noted that Douglas often asks the coach who is currently leading the tackle count.
Miller has also contributed on offense as a tight end. He caught five passes for 51 yards in limited playing time. The Eagles manage with a small roster, typically having only 25 to 29 players available per game. Miller said the smaller group creates better chemistry among players. He also noted that the team uses pickle juice to manage muscle cramps during late-game plays in warm weather.
Bryce Miller recorded 14 tackles and one interception in his four games before the injury. He is expected to remove his walking boot soon. Beebe said the brothers performed at a similar level early in the season. The coach described them as being cut from the same mold. Bryce previously missed time before last season due to appendix surgery.
