BROOMFIELD — Broomfield quarterback Cole LaCrue made his final decision on where he’ll play college football live on television Monday night at the high school, choosing the University of Wisconsin over his other top-three destinations in Colorado and Tulane.
The recruiting trail had picked up for the touted dual-threat quarterback at the end of October, where his top-three offers came over five days, allowing him to take part in an esteemed signing day tradition reserved for nationally touted players. Basically a player sets three hats out in front of them and picks the winner live on video in front of family and friends.
Business-like, LaCrue showed up to the Eagles gymnasium in a slick navy suit and a light brown briefcase. When 9News sports reporter Scotty Gange gave the floor to the senior, he put the white Badgers hat on and extracted a black Wisconsin flag out of his case.
Broomfield QB Cole LacRue has chosen his college destination @BoCoPreps @CHSAA @coloradopreps @lacruecole18 @Eagle_athletics pic.twitter.com/je0zHP3gsX
— Brent W. New (@BrentWNew) November 8, 2022
“Obviously it was a very tough decision. Being a hometown kid, I wanted to play for the Buffaloes, Tulane is a really good program, and Wisconsin is Wisconsin,” LaCrue said. “I loved everything about Wisconsin. I loved my visit out there. I think it’s a place where I can really succeed, and I really wanted to bring Badger nation back up top. I think I am the guy to do that. I think I’m a winner and I’m excited to bring them back.”
LaCrue has been the state’s quarterback darling this fall, showcasing an elite arm and a strong ability to run while leading Broomfield to an undefeated regular season. He has thrown for 1,854 yards, ran for 672 and has 34 total touchdowns as the Eagles host the second round of the Class 4A postseason this Saturday.
Broomfield coach Blair Hubbard said LaCrue has brought an energy and a spark to the program from the first time he took the field for them on Oct. 9, 2020. That night he led the Eagles from behind to beat Monarch with two passing TDs and two scores on the ground.
Hubbard, who said he stresses to his players to pick the college that “feels like home”, said that Badgers fans are “getting a very athletic, dual-threat quarterback who has the arm to make all the throws they need to.”
Adding, “He can throw with all the arm angles. I’ve compared him to a little bit of (Kansas City Chiefs QB) Patrick Mahomes with the way he can throw the ball at different angles. I think he is going to be an exciting addition to their program.”
LaCrue — with teachers, coaches, family and more than 100 students behind him Monday night — dedicated the pinnacle moment to his late father. LaCrue said his father Joe died of complications from the coronavirus on Nov. 29, 2020.
“Everything I’ve done from that point on has been for him,” LaCrue said. “I wouldn’t be here without him and obviously this is a huge moment in my life, and I wish I could spend it with him, but I don’t have the chance. Everything I’m going to do is for him and my brothers. I’m going to be the best role model for kids and I’m going to be the best person for kids.”
