Interview: 3-Star 2020 LB Ben Kreul Already Dominating Wisconsin Competition

Written by Ryan Wright

Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG

Statistics in sports do not always tell the tale; thank goodness for game reel. Looking over season stats for linebacker Ben Kreul during the 2017 season, one may come to the conclusion that he had a solid season thus an okay linebacker, but nothing could be further from the truth. Kreul is that do-everything Class of 2020 linebacker just scratching the surface of his overall talents.

Promise and upside meeting with size, speed, and productivity makes a beast on defense, and that beast for Memorial Catholic is Ben Kreul. Kreul roam the Wisconsin high school gridirons during his sophomore season coming up with 72 stops, three tackles for a loss, and two picks. Again, the stats do not paint the entire picture. At 6-3, 220 pounds, most ball carriers prefer the path that leads away from the three-star recruit. Running the opposite away effect does not stop or slow down Kruel’s motor. He is a true sideline to sideline player who never gives up on the play. Unofficial stats for the 2018 season already has Kruel with 21 tackles, a couple of tackles for a loss, a fumble recovery, and interception in two games played.

The total package as a defender has drawn college recruiters to the Waukesha area with offers extended from Nebraska and Iowa State while a heavy grouping of colleges eagerly await his early season reel. Those showing interest includes Notre Dame, Michigan, Michigan State, and Wisconsin, to name a few.

In a Recruiting News Guru exclusive interview, I sat down with Kruel to learn more about the man laying out Wisconsin running backs with a quick update on his recruiting process.

Interview

Ben, the Crusaders are off to a great start with a 2-0 record and the defense has put the lid on the opposition getting into the end zone. What all is clicking for you guys on that side of the ball early in the season?

“We are a young team, but our coach gets us in the right spots. We are quick defensively, and we are all on the same page. No one is playing hero ball out there. We are all are playing our roles. Our head coach, Bill Young, emphasizes being physical. We want to be the most physical defenses the offenses we play will face all season.”

What kind of defensive front do the Crusaders typically execute?

“We run a 3-4, usually, but we can go into a 3-3.”

You play inside linebacker in the defense, what are your responsibilities play to play within the scheme?

“This year, I made the change to add outside linebacker to my game. My first game was at outside linebacker and the second game was at inside linebacker. The game this week, I will be at inside linebacker. It is a week to week thing. In the long run it will help me be more versatile as a linebacker.”

There are a lot of areas of your game that pop off the reel, your speed, nose for the ball, and you do not give up on plays, what are some of the other things you feel you do well playing linebacker?

“My strengths… you have to be physical. Linebackers are not typically that great against the pass, but I am good at reading quarterbacks and making plays against the pass.”

Are you playing some offense this year?

“Yes, sir. I am at the Y, a tight end that splits out, and sometimes I am in the backfield.”

How is it going on offense?

“I love it. It is good for me to have both mindsets. Going over film now, I know more about what an offensive player is doing and thinking. Plus, playing on offense keeps me in good shape makes me more versatile as an athlete.”

You guys get Arrowhead on Friday, what kind of game are you expecting from them?

“We are expecting a dogfight. They are a good team. They have played a tough schedule. Friday will be their first home game. They will be fired up. We are locked in on them. Friday is our biggest game of our season right now. We take it week by week.”

What other games are big rivalry games left on the schedule or games you personally are pumped to play?

“I love football. There are some games you get up for, but every game is the same to me. Every team we play will put up a fight. We play in the best conference in the state. If you are not ready to play, you will lose. There is not one specific team I am fired up to play over the others this year.”

What personal goals have you set for your junior year?

“My personal goals are to have over 100 tackles, up to 5 interceptions, and some sacks. My biggest goal is a championship. We will make the playoffs, from there we will make a run.”

Which schools are showing recruiting interest in you?

“Wisconsin, Notre Dame, Iowa, Michigan State, Michigan, Stanford, and Miami-Ohio are all showing interest.”

Have you received any offers yet?

“Yes, sir. I have two. I have one from Nebraska and one from Iowa State.”

Did you get to visit any colleges this summer or during the offseason?

“Yes. I took a visit to Nebraska and over the spring I went to Iowa State, Iowa, and Wisconsin.”

Do you have any planned visits for this fall?

“Yes. I am going to Notre Dame and Nebraska. I am not sure on other visits yet.”

What are college coaches telling you they like about your game?

“The biggest thing they like are my frame, I am 6-3, 220, which is a big linebacker. And, I am only 16-years old. I will fill in a little more. They like my size and physicality.”

Ben, it has been fun learning more about your game today. Thanks for your time and good luck on Friday.

“Thank you.”

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Photo credit: Kruel family; Ben Kruel at Nebraska and in action