Sophomore Brandon Beachum of Youngstown Cardinal Mooney is quickly becoming one of the top prospects in the class of 2008. Beachum, 6-1 and 215 pounds, is a two-way player in high school , starring as a running back and a linebacker.

Beachum attended a one day camp at Akron University on Sunday and tested extremely well for someone so young. Brandon ran a 4.62 forty, ran a 4.4 pro shuttle, and broad jumped 8-8. These are remarkable numbers for a player his size.

It's no wonder Beachum is drawing the attention of recruiters across the land.

What did Brandon Beachum think of his performance at Akron?

"I think I did okay," said Beachum modestly. "I was hoping to do a lot better and I think I can do better. I've gotten stronger and faster the past few months. I work out a lot and I'll continue to work to get better."

Beachum spoke highly of the Akron coaches and their facilities.

"The coaches were great," said Beachum. "It's easy to see why they're so successful. I love their facilities. The weight room and the indoor football field are great."

Beachum, who carries a 3.3 grade point average, talked about some day playing football at the next level.

"I'm going to play football in college some day," said Beachum. "Getting an education is very important to me and my family. I really have no favorite at this time but I like the schools close to home. I went to Ohio State for the Michigan State game and loved it. I met Jim Tressel before the game and got to be on the field with the players before the game. It was an awesome atmosphere."

Beachum also talked about what position he sees himself playing in college.

"I definitely see myself as a defensive player at the next level," said Beachum. "I'm a decent running back but defense is just a better fit for me in the future. I prefer to hit people. Even when I run the football I'm looking to run someone over rather than go around them. I believe I will be recruited as a linebacker and that's great with me."

Beachum, who is listed as one of the top players in his class by Ohio High magazine, is a very mature person for a sophomore and figures to have a bright future on and off the football field. He is a player we will follow very closely to monitor his progress.