Two locals announce college commitments

Two senior local high school football players from Mater Dei signed letters of intent, Costa Mesa resident Ben Tauanuu, an offensive lineman, with Montana State University, and Newport Beach resident Patrick Duffy, a kicker, with Harvard University.

Tauanuu, a 6-foot-5, 281-pounder, helped protect Newport Beach resident and junior quarterback Matt Barkley, the Gatorade National Player of the Year leading the Monarchs to 9-2 overall, 3-1 in the Trinity League, and the quarterfinals of the CIF Southern Section Pac-5 Division playoffs.

Duffy made five field goals, converted 53 of 54 extra points, and recorded 14 touchbacks.

— From staff reports