Recruiting Spotlight: Sione Laulea

Recently one of Oregon’s top defensive targets trimmed his list to three programs. Which was a bit of a surprise.

Previously it was thought College of San Mateo (Calif.) defensive back Sione Laulea was likely a battle between Oregon and Penn State. However only Oregon made the newly released top three. The others to make the cut were USC and Miami.

The 6-foot-3, 180-pounder is the top-ranked JUCO player in the country. He has the length and athleticism to be a difference-maker at the next level.

Let’s take a closer look at the latest with Laulea.

The Contenders: Oregon, USC, Miami

The Commitment Date: None

My Current Prediction: Oregon (6.27)

Official Visits: Penn State (6/2), Miami (6/9), USC (June 16), Oregon (June 23)

Jhop’s Take:

This one has taken a few turns so far. The early thought was it was Oregon and USC, next it was Oregon and Penn State, now it’s back to Oregon and USC with Miami looming. If you’re keeping track, only Oregon was the mainstay in the three scenarios. Which feels like it should be a good thing for the Ducks.

But one thing has happened in the meantime, Oregon flipped USC commit Dakoda Fields in the process. That shouldn’t be enough to sway Laulea but you never know if it becomes a factor.

One of the comments that I keep circling back to is about family. And I think Oregon has a leg up with the family in this recruitment. However Laulea is older, he’s not a senior in high school. So the decision is likely all his.

I get the feeling this one will happen in the next 30 (ish) days. I don’t think Laulea really wants this hanging around for much of his season. So I think we could be seeing this one wind down. Miami feels like they are on the outside looking in with distance being the biggest obstacle.

For now I have my pick on Oregon but we definitely have to keep a close eye on USC throwing the kitchen sink at Laulea.

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