Recruiting junkies have been aware of Brenham (TX) linebacker Marqez Bimage for some time, but only recently was his name elevated to the main stage. The former Houston commit became a Longhorn target the minute Tom Herman left the Cougars for Austin. Bimage added his name to the ever expanding Longhorn recruiting class today, and he talked with Horn Sports about his decision. “Not everyone gets to experience what it’s like to play for the Longhorns, and I have that opportunity. I want to seize it,†said Bimage. Many kids in the lone star state grow up with dreams of college football glory, but Bimage is also focusing on the opportunities off the field. “Not everyone is able to receive a degree from the University of Texas. That played a huge part in my decisionâ€.
Bimage actually grew up a fan of nearby Texas A&M, but a visit to campus his sophomore year changed his perception. “Growing up in Texas you were either a Longhorn or an Aggie,†Bimage told us. “I grew up an Aggie. My sophomore year I visited Texas and the atmosphere was crazy. The fans were all for the players, and the game was incredible. I believe since then my whole mindset changed.†The Longhorns have been successful recruiting players from Brenham. Stars such as Limas Sweed and Malcom Brown were big time players in Austin, while others like Tim Cole and Ryan Roberson contributed to team success. The Brenham pipeline ended up being a big factor for Bimage. “Guys that went from Brenham to Texas tend to be successful not only as players, but also as people. That influence was definitely a big factor.â€
The 6’3 223 lbs. defender played mostly on the edge in high school, but the Longhorns are targeting him for a spot at inside linebacker. Bimage is excited for the opportunity no matter where he lines up. “I’m excited. Wherever I play on defense I’ll be happy to be there. I’m a firm believer in Todd Orlando’s defensive scheme. It will be a lot of fun.†Bimage is set to take his official visit to Austin on January 14th, and he summed up what he’s looking forward to in Austin. “The culture of the school. It feels like there’s so much tradition that ties into it all. I just want to experience it.†This commitment will fill a big need at inside linebacker, and the coaches have been pitching Bimage on early playing time at the position. The Longhorns are starting to heat up on the recruiting trail, and fans should expect to see more commitments over the coming weeks. Herman’s staff is doing a good job of filling holes in the depth chart with quality players as they look to finish strong and spring board into the 2018 class.
