UP CLOSE: Russell Tialavea

Nickname: Truss

Favorite cold cereal: cereal doesn’t fill me up.

Favorite Bronco Mendenhall Quote: “Run to the ball.”

Why did I choose to play football over other sports: I was big.

Before a football game, I: Listen to Enya and read the scriptures.

How did I spend my off-season: Basketball.

Who is the best player I’ve ever faced: Jake Locker.

What would I like to do sometime in my life: Serve a mission.

One place I would like to visit: Santiago, Chile West.

Who has had the greatest influence on my football career and why: Momz and Pops because they are goodly parents.

What do I want to be doing 20 years from now: Raise a family.

How did I select my jersey number: I closed my eyes and picked the jersey.

What is my favorite hobby or activity away from football: Basketball and movies.

What is the best book I’ve ever read: El Libro de Mormon.

People say I look like: Salim Malik.

What is my most memorable athletic achievement or moment: Beating Utah in 2006.

My most interesting class I’ve taken at BYU: Victor Narsimulu, Anthropology.

My favorite scripture: Alma 22:15

My favorite website: BYU.edu

My advice to youngsters: Surround yourselves with good people.

If I were hosting you on a recruiting visit to Provo, the most impressive thing I’d have to show you is: Provo 7th, ya dig!!

If I were on “Who Wants to be a Millionaire,” the person I’d call for my lifeline is: Latika (Saleia) Mata’afa because with Salim its destiny!

My least favorite trip is and why: Back home because Happyville is the bizz.

One rule I’d change in college football is: No double teams! This one is for Rom, Vita and Jordan.

If I could invite any three people to dinner, who would they be: Father, Mother and future wife.

On game day my friends and relatives: Watch me on the sidelines.