Balom recaps Paradise, plans return visit this weekend

2020 Miramar (FL) 3-star S Brian Balom had been flying under the radar to most Power 5 schools the majority of the cycle, and although the local Hurricanes had been keeping tabs on him, they hadn’t shown enough interest to throw him an offer. That all changed when Balom was out at Paradise Camp late last month, where he impressed the Miami staff enough in-person to earn a verbal scholarship from safeties coach Ephraim Banda.

“It felt great earning the offer, coach Banda told me about the offer after Paradise Camp,” Balom said. “I felt that I played alright, I know I could’ve done better. I had a few pass break-ups that should’ve been interceptions.”

As for the event itself, Balom felt that he enjoyed his time at Paradise Camp, and also said he was getting some pointers from a current NFL safety.

“It was an amazing experience, being coached by alumni’s and coach Banda,” Balom said. “Rayshawn Jenkins, he helped me during the 1-on-1’s and 7-on-7’s. I was just chopping it up with him, talking about college life, staying focused, and coverage techniques.”

The 6-0 180 pound prospect was also on campus early last month for a Manny Diaz camp event and Balom wants to continue his presence on Miami campus. He’s been invited and will attend UM’s recruiting event this weekend coming out of the dead period.

“I’m looking forward to chilling with coach Banda and watching film,” Balom said.

Describing his game, Balom feels he could bring a lot to the Miami defense as a versatile prospect.

“Banda sees me as a rover/free safety,” Balom said. “I’m a physical safety who isn’t scared to hit and could also be a ballhawk. I am like a QB on defense.”

What are his overall feelings on Miami heading into his next UM visit?

“They are in the mix,” Balom said. “Their academics and their football program are one of a kind. Especially the type of players they breed.”

As for other programs, Balom is planning to make trips to Louisville and West Virginia before he makes a choice this fall.

“I would want to make a decision around September or October,” Balom said. “I’ll be focusing on the quality of the education, the depth of the roster, and if I feel at home or like a family there.”

Balom has focused much of his off-season on his goals for his senior season, which he has well-outlined in his head.

“I want to get 80+ tackles, 10+ interceptions, and at least 4 forced fumbles. And the biggest goal is a state ring.”

At the Opening Miami Regional in February, Balom recorded a 4.63 40-yard dash, a 4.34 shuttle, and a 32.50 vertical leap.