Cincinnati Bearcats defensive lineman Curtis Brooks is a player to watch out for this upcoming 2021-2022 football season. Brooks, who is a leader on defense, is a veteran of UC’s ball club. Brooks is going into his 5th-year eligibility looking to make a statement. The FrontOfficeNews got a chance to speak to Brooks during Camp Higher Ground practice, Brooks stated he was excited for the upcoming season after an offseason with minor knee surgery and rehabbing, Brooks says “I’m feeling better than ever.” Coming off his 2020-2021 season, he played in all 10 games during the AAC Championship campaign with four starts. The 5th year senior is a key part of Cincinnati’s defense which led the AAC in rushing, scoring, pass efficiency and total defense.
UC featured an elite defense that ranked in the NCAA’s Top-15 in five categories, including tied for No. 3 in both interceptions with 16 and No. 3 in team passing efficiency defense (101.26). Brooks totaled 27 tackles, including 3.0 tackles for a loss with 2.5 sacks in the 2020-2021 season. Cincinnati’s front seven limited defenders to 3.1 yards per rush on the year. Brooks forced his first career fumble at SMU. Tied his career-high with five tackles at UCF. Had four tackles, a sack, and a quarterback hurry in the AAC Championship game against Tulsa.
Earned his bachelor’s degree and elected to return to Cincinnati in 2021 to use his extra year of eligibility. Brooks told the “Frontofficenews” He expects the Bearcats to go undefeated this upcoming season, stating “undefeated as the ultimate team goal”, building on the success of past seasons this proclamation is one that Bearcats fans would agree with. Brooks stated that he is excited to have fans back in the stadium, “having the crowd rocking.” It will be an exciting year for the defense with their new defensive coordinator Mike Tressel as well as the veteran personal planning to have their way against opposing offenses. We look forward to seeing Curtis Brooks succeed and watching his super senior campaign.
