Kansas Football: Interview with Newton Class of 2022 Defensive Back Luke Hirsh
Written by Charlie Beuttel
Twitter: @charlie_cds3
Luke Hirsh had another solid season at Newton High School as the junior defensive back racked up 47 total tackles including seven for a loss with five pass break-ups and four forced fumbles. The 6’0”, 175-pound, playmaker has the tremendous speed to cover all areas of the field and the strength and physicality to deliver big hits to his opponents. He also has good field vision and a high football IQ.
This Class of 2022 prospect already has one offer from Bethel (KS) and is receiving interest from several other big-time schools including Air Force and Iowa State.
In an exclusive Recruiting News Guru interview, I caught up with Luke to talk about his junior season, his preparations for his senior season and get an update on his recruiting process.
Interview
Luke, how would you grade your individual performance during your junior season?
I would give my junior year about a B. Last season I didn’t even come close to my full potential, and, honestly, looking back at last season it makes me cringe sometimes.
What would you say was your best game and why?
I think my best game was probably Game 1 against Andover Central. I caused two fumbles, had a pass breakup, and had a ton of tackles despite two injuries that happened mid-game.
What are your strengths on the football field?
My strengths on the football field are definitely my physicality and speed. Last season I wasn’t very physical so I made that my number one priority to get better at and now I’ve become much more physical. My speed has been a strength of mine ever since middle school.
What kind of defensive scheme does your team run?
We run a 4-3-4 with lots of Cover 4 and Cover 2.
How do your skills fit into this scheme?
This fits me very well because I’m always guarding the deep threat which is where I can show off my speed, and at the same time come down and make hard-hitting tackles, force fumbles, etc.
What is your favorite thing about playing defensive back?
My favorite thing about playing defensive back is the ability to fly around and make plays. Most of the time you have the freedom to let your instincts take over and I just like defense because I truly believe defense is the deciding factor in most games.
What is your fastest 40-yard dash time?
My fastest 40 ever timed is a 4.48 but it isn’t “official”. I recorded myself then put the video into iMovie and then synced a stopwatch to start from my first movement to when I cross 40 yards. My fastest official 40 is a 4.5 at Iowa State.
Is there an NFL player that you try to model your game after?
I try to model my game to be like Tyrann Matthieu and Daniel Sorensen. They are both extremely physical and have that dog mentality that I love.
Do you play any other sports in high school?
Throughout my high school career I’ve also done track, baseball, and swim.
Have you been to any camps this summer?
I have been to Kansas State, Iowa State, and SMU.
Are you receiving interest from any schools?
Currently I have interest from Kansas State, Iowa State, Tulsa, Air Force, Montana, North Dakota State, and Northern Iowa
Do you have any college offers?
Currently holding just one offer from Bethel.
What are you working on the most this offseason?
This offseason I’m focusing really hard on improving my physicality, ball-playing ability, and creating smoother hips.
What is your GPA?
3.8.
What is your favorite quote?
“Success is never owned, it’s leased. And rent is due every day.”
What are your goals for your senior season?
My goals for my senior season are to lead our team to a winning season for the first time in over a decade, earn Division I FBS offers, and prove doubters wrong.
Thank you for your time today.
Thank you, sir.
Photo credit: Hirsh family; Luke Hirsh at SMU