Helena High football standout Ryan Fetherston has verbally committed to play for the University of Montana.

Fetherston, who is 6-foot-4 and 205 pounds, started at both linebacker and quarterback last fall for the Bengals and helped the team reach the semifinals of the Class AA playoffs.

He was also a state wrestling champion at 189 pounds last season. He is currently undefeated at 215 this year.

"I think he will fit in great," said Helena High coach Tony Arntson, a former Grizzly football player. "He is a good Montana football kid. He is tough and physical."

Montana State and Carroll College also recruited Fetherston.

Fetherston was a first-team all-state selection as a linebacker last season and a second-team all-state pick as junior.

"I am really excited about choosing to play for the university," Fetherston said. "I like the program and coaches."

Fetherston is slated to be redshirted next season and will likely play at either defensive end or outside linebacker.

"I like playing defense a little better," he said. "You get to give hits instead of taking hits."

He joins fellow Helena High alumni Dan Carpenter and Mike Ferriter on the team.

"They took me under their wing (in high school)," Fetherston said. "Hopefully they will do the same thing when I go there."