Four-star athlete Talanoa Hufanga commits to USC

He’s the No. 1 prospect from Oregon.

Four-star athlete Talanoa Hufanga committed to USC on Thursday evening. The prospect out of Corvallis (Ore.) Crescent Valley chose USC from 21 offers, including ones from Oregon, Michigan, and Nebraska. The 6’0, 193-pound athlete is the No. 2 athlete in the country per the 247Sports Composite, but he’s the No. 1 prospect out of the state of Oregon.

In the fall, Hufanga took visits to Utah, UCLA, Nebraska, USC, and Michigan. Although he’s listed as an athlete, he’s being primarily recruited as a defensive back. That’s where he practiced during the Nike Opening last July in Beaverton, Ore.

Given Hufanga’s skillset, he’s a big addition to USC’s 2018 class.

What makes Hufanga special?

Size, speed, and mentality. Hufanga moves like player who weighs 175 pounds, not nearly 200. On defense, that means he is getting to the ball carrier faster than expected. And when he arrives, it means the blow he is delivering is serious and substantial. In the era of spread football, having a safety with the ability to cover like a free safety, but play the run in space like a linebacker is a major asset, and that’s what Hufanga represents. Add in plus instincts, and it is easy to see how he is a special player. — Bud Elliott