Darrian Beavers has developed into versatile leader for No. 7 Cincinnati's defense

Darrian Beavers was the local recruit who slipped away from University of Cincinnati football coach Luke Fickell and defensive coordinator Marcus Freeman.

Now, nearly four years later, Beavers is back in his hometown and has worked his way into being an indispensable member of a UC defense that is one of the most dominant defenses in college football.

Entering Friday's late game against East Carolina, Beavers had started every game at linebacker for the No. 7 Bearcats (both Associated Press and Coaches polls), ranking third on the team with 27 tackles (15 solo). That trails only Joel Dublanko's 28 and Jerell White's team-high 58.

Beavers also has an interception for a unit that ranks fifth…