Indiana Football: Interview with Andrean 4-Star Linebacker Drayk Bowen
Written by Charlie Beuttel
Twitter: @charlie_cds3
Drayk Bowen burst onto the scene during his sophomore campaign in 2020 as he helped lead the Fighting 59ers to an 11-2 record and an appearance in the state quarterfinals by finishing with over 80 tackles including 15 for a loss, five sacks, four forced fumbles, three fumble recoveries, two blocked punts, one interception, and one blocked field goal. He added to the team’s success rushing for 177 yards off just 15 carries with five trips into the end zone.
The four-star linebacker has incredible athleticism and plays with great intensity until the whistle. This 6’3”, 204-pound, monster also has tremendous footwork and tackling ability. The Class of 2023 recruit currently holds four college offers including Indiana and Arkansas.
In an exclusive Recruiting News Guru interview, I caught up with Drayk to talk about his sophomore and get an update on his recruiting process.
Interview
Drayk, how would you grade your individual performance during your sophomore season?
I thought my individual performance was pretty good this year. Of course, there is always room for improvement.
What are your strengths on the football field?
My motor, mind, and intensity. I can read offenses and know a lot of what will or what could happen.
What would you say was your best game this season and why?
Our game against Highland, we were down early and I came up with a strip-sack which was really the momentum shifter of the game. Later in the game, I broke off a 60-yard run.
How would you describe what kind of player you are?
I would describe myself as a very high motored player. I play with a lot of intensity and love for this game.
How would you describe what kind of teammate you are?
I would describe myself as a selfless teammate. If I can take on a couple of blocks and allow one of my teammates to come free then I would do that.
Did you face any challenges this season?
Yes, at the beginning of the season I didn’t have very good hands so I would get blocked very easily.
How did you overcome these challenges?
As the season went on, I got better by working on them during practices and at home with a pad.
What are your maxes in the weight room?
My max squat is 440, max bench is 250, max clean is 260, and max front squat is 340.
How do your skills translate to your team’s defensive scheme?
I think my skills translate to my team because in our defense we need guys who are fast and athletic so I think it helps that I am.
What is one area of your game that you say the most improvement in over the course of the season?
I saw my pass drops and handwork get better as the season went along.
Do you play any sports in high school?
I also play baseball.
What is your favorite subject in school and why?
My favorite subject is probably history because I love the teacher and because I love learning about it.
What is your GPA?
4.2.
Do you have any college offers?
Indiana, Cincinnati, Arkansas, and Ball State.
Are you receiving interest from any other schools?
Just a few other schools but can’t name them right now.
Do you have a favorite quote?
My favorite quote is probably is Me vs Me because this helps push myself to always be better than myself the day before.
Thank you for your time today.
Thank you, sir.
Photo credit: Chicago Tribune; Andrean LB Drayk Bowen