Although the Bearcats could still add a player or two to their 2010 recruiting class, one overlooked Cincinnatian told Bearcat Lair earlier this week that he has verbally committed to become a walk-on for Butch Jones’ program next season.
In 2009, Kidd helped lead the Trojans to their first ever perfect 10-0 regular season before a first round loss to Carlisle in the state tournament ended their season.
North College Hill head coach Bruce Baarendse talked about his star. “He’s a four year starter for us and would up third on the school’s career tackling list. He’s a tremendous worker, tremendous effort and unbelievable type heart player. He’s probably the hardest worker I’ve had in 27 years He’s just a winner.”
Earlier in the year, it appeared Kidd would become an Ivy Leaguer, but those plans recently changed.
“I was supposed to go to Princeton (University) but also had some interest from some black colleges,” said Kidd. “I want to stay at home and play ball at UC in front of my family and friends, but originally I was going to go to Princeton.”
Kidd said he currently holds a 3.65 GPA and wants to major in business management at the University of Cincinnati.
As good as Kidd performs on the field, he’s just as impressive in the classroom according to his coach.
“He’s in the Top 5 in his class and scored in the upper 20’s on his ACT. He’s a tremendous student and does mentoring at our school. He’s the total package.”
The NCH star looks like another very good get for the Cincinnati football program as more and more local stars are spurning very good opportunities elsewhere to become Bearcats. Elder’s Tony Miliano (PK), CHCA’s John Lloyd (P) and Elder’s Corey Mason (LB) are three other quality walk-ons that reportedly passed up scholarship offers elsewhere to play football in their hometown.
North College Hill is a member of the Miami Valley Conference, and Kidd has been one of its most celebrated athletes. He was the league’s “Wrestler of the Year” as a junior and followed that by being named “Player of the Year” in football this season.
With estimated 4.56 forty speed, Kidd said he is expecting to play on offense for the Bearcats.
“They want me to play running back.” He described his style of running. “I’m more of a downhill runner. I make a move and just plant and go.”
After rushing only 17 times for 133 yards as a junior, Kidd rushed for 1,040 yards on 123 carries last season, an 8.5 yard per carry average.
Coach Baarendse likes Kidd’s chances at running back. “This was his first year as our feature back, and he really flourished in that role. He had over 1,000 yards rushing and probably another 200 or 300 yards receiving.”
