The history of top linebackers coming out of Cincinnati (Ohio) St. Xavier is long. Headlined by Luke Kuechly, the Bombers always seem to find players with high football IQs and toughness on the defensive side of the ball.
Junior linebacker Noah Beck looks like another in the long line of backers ready to take their game to the college level.
We recently spoke with Beck about a recent college visit and other programs showing early interest.
“I recently visited Miami for a game,” said Beck. “I got a chance to meet with Coach (Chuck) Martin and linebacker coach Joe Bowen. Miami is a school of high interest, as my father attended there. So when we visited, I had a chance to meet many of his friends. It was a good experience overall.
What would an offer from the RedHawks mean to Beck?
“A Miami offer would mean a lot,” he stressed. “I already have Miami gear, and my dad knows all about the campus area and all the great places to eat. I’ve attended games before, but this visit allowed me to see many things I’ve not seen before. I was very impressed with their indoor facility and weight room as they are some of the best I’ve seen.”
Like Miami, Beck was no stranger to St. Xavier as he’s another generation in the “Long Blue Line” with strong family ties.
“It all started with my grandfather,” explained Beck. “My dad and his brothers all went there. I had a chance to go to Elder, but it meant a lot to me carrying on the tradition. It was the right decision for me.”
After losing many top seniors a year ago, this season has proven to be one of the new players looking to prove themselves. While the Bombers have struggled, Beck knows they’re being coached right, and the playoffs could be a time to put everything together.
“I feel I’ve improved greatly with my technique,” he said. “The coaches had me working on it, and I feel I’ve improved my pass coverage. Our coaches are outstanding and do a great job helping all the kids improve.
“We’ve learned a lot this season. We know we need to stick together and not get down and point fingers at each other. We need to play together and make a run in the playoffs.”
What is Beck looking for in a school?
“I’m looking for a school to get a great education,” he stressed. “I’m also looking for a place to improve as a player and have fun doing what I love to do, play football.”
The RedHawks are not the only program showing early interest, and Beck talks about programs he’s hoping to visit soon.
“I’m hoping to visit Kent State and Toledo,” he said. “I’m talking with Coach (Lee) Stalker at Kent State. He’s been trying to get me up there for a visit. At Toledo, I’m talking with Coach (Mark) Staten. So I’m also trying to get up there for a visit. But I’m open to all schools right now.”
This season, the 6-foot-2, 225-pound Beck has posted 58 tackles with 3.5 sacks and forced a fumble. The Bombers open postseason play against Fairfield on Friday night.
The following are highlights from this season.
