Malvern's Nilan commits to Marist

Joe Nilan, a 6-foot, 220-pound senior linebacker who helped Malvern Prep win the Inter-Academic League championship last season, has committed to Marist.

Nilan, named the Inter-Ac's most valuable player, chose Marist over a number of Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference schools, including West Chester. He also considered Bucknell.

"I took a visit to Marist two weeks ago," said the 18-year-old, who doubled as a fullback for the Friars. "I like the campus, which sits right next to the Hudson River; the Marist coaches; and I got along well with all the players."

The Springfield (Delaware County) resident was an Inquirer first-team all-Southeastern Pennsylvania selection at linebacker.

Brown to Lehigh. Central Bucks South's Dan Brown, a speedy senior tailback and kick returner, will play at Lehigh.

In 12 games last season, the 5-10, 190-pounder rushed 213 times for 1,875 yards and 37 touchdowns. A first-team all-area pick, he finished with 44 scores.

Brown shined after missing all of the 2010 campaign with a torn left anterior cruciate ligament. He also received interest from Richmond, Holy Cross, and Bryant.

Contact staff writer Rick O'Brien at 610-313-8019, robrien@phillynews.com, or @ozoneinq on Twitter. Read his blog, "The O'Zone," at www.philly.com/ozone.