Answer Monday! (Part 2) | Inside USC with Scott Wolf

Here’s a look at some of the 2012 recruits USC covets in this segment.

Q: SCMBA said:
For 2012, which recruits are USC making the biggest push for? Of these guys, which do we have the best shot at and who would be the biggest losses if we can’t close the deal (assuming 15 scholarships next year)? Thanks

A: Right now, it’s all about offensive linemen. USC’s offered Andrus Peat (6-7, 280) of Tempe, Ronnie Stanley (6-6, 285) of Las Vegas, Jordan Simmons of Encino Crespi, Kyle Murphy (6-6, 270) of San Clemente.
They also want DBs and DEs: Defensive ends Dalvin Tomlinson (6-3, 270) of McDonough, Ga.) and Tyriq McCord (6-3, 209, Tampa. Defensive backs Terry Richardson (5-9, 160) of Detroit and Tee Shepard (6-1, 175) of Fresno and Geno Smith (6-0, 165) of Atlanta.

Q: Zovoz said:
I asked this in an earlier forum, but I didn’t see an answer. Apologies if I missed it.
Given all of the focus on the offensive line recently, how come we don’t hear much about Giovanni Di Poalo? What’s his status?

A: He’s redshirted last season and has always been considered a bit of a project. So he’s not going to get a lot of buzz unless he surprises the coaches in spring drills. But he will definitely get a long look in spring because of the depth problems along the offensive line.

Trojan Conquest

I find it interesting that a 4 Star recruit (both Rivals & Scout) would be “always considered a bit of a project”.
Evil Robot

Almost all offensive linemen are projects and usually need a few years before they are ready. In this case you are talking about a guy who played in a lower division and rarely played against guys his size, but now needs to add 30-40lbs and take a huge jump in competition. This doesn’t mean he can’t end up being a great player, but don’t expect miracles right out of the gate. Being considered project isn’t necessarily a bad thing and it is often the reality of any player who is going to play at 300lbs.