Overlooked 2019 All-Southern California OLB Blake Beecher Talks Football and Recruiting
Written by Ryan Wright
Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG
College football is changing, thanks to more and more teams running a spread and/or run-pass option attack. Yet, most defenses have been slow to adjust still thinking in prototypical terms seeking 6-4, 240-pound, linebackers that are only fluid against the run. The future of the game for high-achieving defenses seeking to stop high-tempo schemes with quarterbacks who can run are defenders in the box who can do a little bit of everything… guys like Class of 2019 linebacker Blake Beecher.
Over the last two seasons Beecher has proven his talents against California competition suiting up for Norco High School. He ended his junior campaign with 92 tackles, 42 solo, 14.5 tackles for a loss, eight sacks, four forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries, and a pick. The growth on the field was not stunted seeing Beecher bring his game to another level during his senior year with 141 stops, 64 solo, 27 tackles for a loss, 10.5 sacks, five forced fumbles, and two fumble recoveries.
The stats show his versatility against the run, pressuring the quarterback, coverage, and the absolute hammer he brings at the point of contact with nine forced fumbles in two seasons. He ended his senior year earning first team All-Inland Empire, first team All-Southern California, first team All-League (twice), and was named Team MVP for the Cougars 9-3 season. Additionally, the 5-11, 210-pound, wrecking crew is a high-achiever in the classroom carrying a 4.25 cumulative GPA with a 1310 scored on the SAT.
Offers have come in for Beecher from Division II and Division III programs, but the Division I teams are missing out on a do-everything talent seemingly only because of an inch or two in height despite the play on the field.
In an RNG exclusive, I sat down with one of California’s top overlooked Class of 2019 linebackers learning more about his game and recruiting process ahead of National Signing Day 2019.
Interview
Blake, you were highly productive during your junior year but took it to another level in 2018. What were some of the big gains you made in the offseason allowing you to have such a successful senior year?
“I focused on my speed. I knew that was something I needed to improve upon. I was not as mobile my junior year. I slimmed down and worked on my fast-twitch muscles. That helped.”
You lined up on the inside and outside, you covered, stuffed the run and rushed the quarterback. What else were your responsibilities within the Cougars defense?
“My coaches saw that I played better when they turned me loose and let me go play football. I had no real set responsibilities overall. It all fluctuated game by game. It was more about me making plays for my team.”
Where do you feel is a natural fit for you on the field with your skills and abilities?
“I like playing linebacker. I feel I can play outside linebacker at the next level, even though my height is not prototypical. I can plan nickelback or strong safety as well. I know I can fit those roles.”
What do you feel are the overall strengths to your game?
“My knowledge of the game and my quickness to the ball. I may not beat a high-end running back in the 40, but in the first 10 yards to the ball, I challenge anyone to beat me there.”
Is there an area of your game that might get overlooked because it does not show up in the stat sheet? I give you one of mine, when you come to the ball, you are bringing all you got.
“My biggest thing is the way I play. I bring a lot to the ball. I am bringing everything I can. I am playing just as big as the 6-foot 4-inch linebacker but in a smaller package.”
The Cougars played some very talented teams during your senior year, of all the games played which was your best?
“I’d say the Upland game. I had 16 tackles in that game. There were a couple of games I played really well but the stats did not show it. I also had another 16-tackle game.”
I know you have some D-II and D-III offers, which schools are showing interest but have not offered yet?
“I am receiving interest from Eastern Washington, University of San Diego, Montana, UPenn, UNLV, UC-Davis – just talking to my head coach the other day, Colorado State, and some D-II and D-III academic schools.”
During the season, did you get a chance to take any unofficial visits?
“Yes. I took an unofficial to UNLV for their game against Nevada.”
How did the visit go?
“It was good. I really like campus, the coaches, and the atmosphere there. UNLV would be a really fun place to play football and go to school.”
Last question. If a college coach reads this interview but is not familiar with you and wants to start showing interest, what type of student-athlete is he investing time in to bring to his 2019 recruiting class?
“They are recruiting a type of student-athlete who matches grades to the play on the field. I have been on the honor roll since I started school, I am always over a 4.0 GPA. My play on the field reflects that same focus. I am still doing two-a-days to get better. I want to prove to people I am who I am. People don’t look at me thinking I am an athlete. That makes me play with a chip on my shoulder. I am always out to prove people wrong.”
I like it. Blake, thanks for your time today and good luck on the recruiting trail.
“Thank you.”
Photo credit: Beecher family; No. 15 Blake Beecher