Kansas Football: Interview with Bishop Miege Speedy RB Jaylen Burch
Written by Charlie Beuttel
Twitter: @charlie_cds3
Bishop Miege had another solid season in 2020 as the Stags finished 5-5 advancing to the state 4A semifinals. One of the stars of the offense, which averaged 38.7 points a game, was junior running back Jaylen Burch. The speedster racked up 921 rushing yards, 11 rushing touchdowns, and 88 receiving yards during his junior campaign.
Using his blazing speed, the 5’8″, 175-pound, talent has tremendous cutting ability and athleticism to escape tackles and break past defenders turning routine runs into explosive plays. The Class of 2022 recruit is working hard both on the practice field and in the weight room to earn his first college offer and has his eyes set on having an even bigger senior season.
In an exclusive Recruiting News Guru interview, I caught up with Jaylen to talk about his junior season, his preparations for his senior campaign, and get an update on his recruiting process.
Interview
Jaylen, how would you grade your performance during your junior season?
I feel like I had a great season. It was my first time playing high school football.
What would you say was your best game and why?
The semi-finals game against St. James was my best. Personally, it was my best because I was the most comfortable.
What are your strengths on the football field?
I would say my strength is my jump cut and being able to use my speed at the right time.
Did you receive any individual honors?
I got an honorable mention this year.
What do you like most about playing running back?
I feel like it challenges me a lot and helps me get strong mentally.
What kind of offense does Bishop Miege run?
We run a Spread offense.
How do your skills fit into this offense?
I’m able to catch out the backfield and using my speed. You have to be pretty fast to run out in this offense.
What area of your game did you see improvement in over the course of the season?
I saw improvement in my passing blocking and being able to get my footwork right.
What is your fastest 40-yard dash time?
4.5.
Is there an NFL player that you try to model your game after?
Yes, Alvin Kamara. He’s just a patient running back.
What do you like most about playing at Bishop Miege?
I just love playing at Miege because you got so much support and it’s just a big family.
Do you play any other sports in high school?
I run track.
Who is your biggest role model?
My biggest role model is Inky Johnson, he’s a motivational speaker.
Do you have a favorite quote?
“If every decision and choice you make is just about you at a certain point you gonna hit something that’s a lot tougher than you and it’s gonna make you quit because you don’t have a driving force for what you do.” – Inky Johnson. It’s my favorite quote.
Are you receiving interest from any colleges?
Yes, the University of St. Thomas.
What is your GPA?
3.4.
What are your goals for the offseason?
My goal is to be better than I was last year and gain weight.
Thank you for your time today.
Thank you, sir.
Photo credit: AzeroPhoto; Bishop Miege RB Jaylen Burch