Tahj Mowry used to be known as the little brother of Tia and Tamara, but those days are long gone. He's now a teen heartthrob in his own right. But apparently, he doesn't want that title either. What title would he like? The title of scholar athlete. Mowry is a 17-year-old senior at Westlake Village in Southern Cali., and he'spulled off something that has never been accomplished before. He has gone from child TV star to high school running back standout in football at a mere 5 feet 8 inches and weighing only 165 pounds.

As if the size factor wasn't an obstacle, so was his acting commitment. He was the star of the WB Network sitcom, Smart Guy that aired from 1997 to 1999. He has continued to star in Disney movies and is the voice of Wade in the Disney animated series, Kim Possible. He rushed for 1,432 yards and scored 19 touchdowns for a 14-0 winning season for the Westlake team and won the Southern Section Division IV championship.

Mowry's outstanding abilities on the field have earned him a free ride to Savannah State, an NCAA Division I-AA school in Savannah, Ga. His speed and ability to take a hit were key factors in convincing college recruiters to give him the chance to play at the next level.

Here's a kid that can definitely get it done from a standpoint of holding on to the football and running between the tackles, Westlake Coach Jim Benkert told the LA Times. There's something about a back who's very shifty running behind a big offensive line and finding openings among the trees. He's a kid who plays with a lot of heart.

Mowry may be a talented football player, but there still may be room for acting. He gave a little insight into his future.

It's like I love it, he said. It's my life. Maybe [acting] later down the road, but football is my thing.