Boise State gains verbal from talented San Diego linebacker

Just before Boise State tipped off against New Mexico last night, Bryan Harsin lit the official commit beacon on his Twitter account, signifying that another recruit was ready to attack the future in blue and orange. Of course, this type of teaser is usually paid off in fairly short order but by the time the Broncos were digging a nice comfy hole for themselves at Taco Bell Arena, no news had dropped about the identity of the new recruit. All Bronco fans had to go on was the (since deleted) follow-up Tweet from Boise State director of recruiting and player personnel Darren Uscher...which added the not-so-mysterious #LBP hashtag to the news.

Some wondered if the hashtag stood for “Long Beach Poly”, the alma mater of Deandre Pierce and hopeful recruiting pipeline. Others thought the initials may stand for “Love Big Polynesians”...which let’s be honest, don’t we all? The lion’s share agreed that #LBP stood for “Linebacker Pride” as it adorns the twitter bio of Bronco DC and ex-backers coach Andy Avalos. So, which linebacker had the Broncos near the top of his wishlist? Most eyes turned to Helix (San Diego) star Ezekiel Noa. Well, we waited a bit longer than is customary, but this morning the Helix football account spilled the proverbial beans:

This commitment isn’t a huge surprise to those that follow recruiting closely. Noa had visited the Broncos before the dead period and was rather smitten with Boise State and was conflicted afterward as to whether he’d even be taking other visits. Alas, it looks like the Broncos won out on the Noa sweepstakes and in all likelihood will receive a letter-of-intent from the talented ‘backer on February 1st. Noa, a 3-star recruit, is currently listed at 6'0" and 230 lbs. and holds standing offers from Colorado, Colorado State, Nevada, SDSU, Washington State, and Wisconsin. Noa was the 2016 Defensive Player of the Year at Helix, which happens to be the same high school that produced Bronco great Jamar Taylor. Zeke’s highlight video (below) suggests he’s a high-motor player that hits like a Mack Truck, but more importantly:

Noa is the second linebacker commit in this 2017 class, joining Texas ‘backer Breydon Boyd. Verbal commitments are non-binding...but wouldn’t it be great if they were? Two more weeks, folks.