Wednesday, February 6, 2013
UW lands 3-star LB Bierria after late visit
By Mason Kelley
Washington added a fourth linebacker to its 2013 class Wednesday with Keishawn Bierria (Harbor City, Calif./Narbonne) committing to the Huskies on signing day.
The three-star prospect, who was high school teammates with early enrollee Troy Williams, picked Washington over Oregon State and Arizona State.
Bierria was in Seattle over the weekend for his official visit. Washington coach Steve Sarkisian offered him a scholarship early in the trip and that made an impression.
“I felt like I was more of a priority to the team, and that’s huge,” Bierria said after his trip. “Usually, when a school comes in late, they don’t consider you much of a need.”
The 6-foot-1, 210-pound senior is the 23rd member of the Huskies’ current class, the 13th recruit from California to commit to a college career in Seattle.
What is the impact of Bierria's decision?
Instant Analysis
What it means for Washington: Bierria’s commitment gives the Huskies an under-the-radar talent. Washington jumped in late on the three-star outside linebacker, but he could end up being one of the prize prospects in this class with his knack for being a tenacious tackler who is also good in coverage.
What it means for Arizona State, Oregon State: This seems to be a bigger loss for the Beavers than Sun Devils. Oregon State was considered a front-runner for Bierria until the Huskies made a late push. The Beavers lost out on a recruit who could develop into a hidden gem.
Turning point: When Bierria arrived in Seattle for his official visit Feb. 1, he didn’t have an offer from the Huskies. Washington coach Steve Sarkisian quickly changed that, pulling him aside before sitting down with all of the official visitors for a meal early in the trip. That showed Bierria that Washington wanted him. The rest of the visit convinced him he wanted to play college football for the Huskies, but he waited until Wednesday to announce his decision.
Surprise (scale of 1-5): 2. He seemed sold on the Huskies as soon as he returned from his visit. It was only a matter of time before he announced his intentions to join his high school teammate, quarterback Troy Williams, at Washington.
Immediate impact (scale of 1-5): 3. Washington has a strong core group of linebackers returning, led by Travis Feeney and John Timu. The Huskies also have three other linebackers in this class. All that means Bierria won’t be pressured to contribute right away. If he earns a spot, he will see the field in his first year. Otherwise, he will be given a chance learn and develop during a redshirt season.
