By DAVID VANTRESS

For the Northwest News

Carroll High School outside linebacker Solomon Oduma has signed a national letter of intent to play football at Illinois State University in Normal, Illinois.

Carroll head coach Doug Dinan said Oduma contributed as a junior in 2021, but really came into his own as a senior this past season.

“He really had a tremendous senior year,” Dinan said. “He’s a very physical player, very rangy, very athletic.”

And as important as his athletic skills were for Carroll, Dinan said Oduma brought much more to the table.

“His character, his personal attributes, his love for his teammates and his work ethic exceed all his athletic skills,” Dinan said. “He’s just a great kid and we’re very excited for him.”

Oduma said Illinois State stood out in his search. It was also his mom’s favorite, he added with a smile.

“I’m a hard worker, so I’m going to get there, work hard and see what happens,” Oduma said.

The Chargers were 13-1 in 2022, finishing as runner-up to state champion Center Grove in the Class 6A state title game Nov. 25.

The Redbirds compete in the Football Championship Subdivision in the Missouri Valley Football Conference. They were 6-5 in 2022.