Interview with Bonner Springs (Kansas) 1,300-Yard 2020 RB/LB Bryce Krone
Written by Charlie Beuttel
Twitter: @charlie_cds3
Bonner Springs High School, located just west of Kansas City, had an up and down season in 2018 as the Braves finished the regular season 4-4 but unfortunately lost to rival, Piper, to end the season and in the first round of the playoffs (46-40). In 2019, the Braves are looking to build off the experiences from last year and make an even deeper playoff run. One of the stars of the team who will lead the charge is senior Bryce Krone. Krone is a playmaker for the Braves at running back and linebacker.
Krone had a monstrous junior campaign where he rushed for 1,313 yards and 16 touchdowns as was named honorable mention All-State and second-team All-League after the season. The 6’1”, 220-pound, runner uses his great vision to find holes and speed make plays on both sides of the ball. The Class of 2020 prospect currently has five college offers and is also drawing interest from several Big 12 programs including Kansas and Kansas State.
Not only does Krone excel on the football field but is also a National Champion power-lifter. In his sophomore year he won squat, bench, and deadlift at Nationals. In the classroom, the senior athlete has a 3.67 GPA and wants to study aviation or business in college.
In an exclusive Recruiting News Guru, I sat down with Bryce to talk about his high school career and his recruiting process.
Interview
Bryce, what are your thoughts on the 2018 season?
“The 2018 season was a long one. We went through a lot of ups and downs throughout the season with injuries and adversity that we had to deal with. We lost some of the games that we shouldn’t have that could’ve put ourselves in a better position for the playoffs, and a shot to go deep.”
What are your thoughts on your individual performance last year?
“Last year, my performance was one of my best. I had a great season running the ball and tackling. All I know is I have a chip on my shoulder and I’m going to have to prove myself and go even harder that I have.”
What are your strengths on the football field?
“On the football field, I have really good vision and know my surroundings. I am very vocal and loud to help lead my teammates. Everyone looks to me during rough times and I help them through it.”
Did you receive any individual honors?
“Last year I earned honorable mention All-State for running back and second-team All-League.”
Do you have any college offers?
“I currently have five offers from Northwest Missouri State, Missouri Western, Augustana, Northeastern State and Minnesota State-Mankato.”
Are you receiving interest from any other schools?
“Yes. I am receiving interest from Kansas, Kansas State, South Dakota, Southern Illinois, and Illinois State.”
What was your most memorable moment from your junior season?
“The most memorable moment from last season was when we were playing Piper and we called an inside run and the line just blew up their defensive line. A hole opened, I ran through it shedding a tackle from the linebacker and scored a 65-yard touchdown.
“It stuck with me because after I scored it, the game was tied and the whole offense came to the end zone and celebrated knowing that we were back in it and fighting. We went on defense the next drive and we stuffed them in the red zone. Our crowd was going loco.”
Did you attend any camps this summer?
“This summer I went to Northwest Missouri State for a camp, Kansas State for a camp and a combine that was hosted at my high school. I also went to the 810 combine in Liberty, Missouri.”
What did you work on the most this past off-season?
“The thing I worked on the most would be my pass coverage and on one-on-ones.”
What are your individual and team goals this season?
“My individual goals this season are to take over the school’s rushing record and lead my team to a deep playoff run, and hopefully a state championship.”
What game on your upcoming schedule are you most looking forward to playing?
“The Piper game. Last year it was a high-intensity game with loaded stands on each side. It will be a blood bath for the win since there are high tensions. We are coming to knock heads with them this year with vengeance and we want revenge.”
Is there an NFL player that you like to compare yourself too?
“I like to compare myself to Luke Kuechly (Panthers). He isn’t too flashy and is a great leader on the field. Luke is a hard-nosed player and delivers the blow.”
What is your GPA?
“3.67.”
What do you want to study in college?
“In college, I want to study aviation or business.”
Do you have a favorite quote?
“The world is a jungle, you either fight and dominate or hide and evaporate.”
Thank you for your time and good luck this upcoming season.
“Thank you, sir.”
Photo credits: Mary Sanchez; Bonner Springs RB Bryce Krone in action