2024 Rankings Newcomers: OL
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In-depth analysis of the new 2024 OL prospects to the PRZ state rankings. Ikinasio Tupou CA #81 OL #12 HEIGHT 6'6" WEIGHT 270 POS OL CLASS 2024 View Profile Ikinasio Tupou State: California School: Palo Alto Tupou’s recruiting is picking…
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Continue ReadingIn-depth analysis of the new 2024 OL prospects to the PRZ state rankings.
Tupou’s recruiting is picking up steam with recent offers from Cal and Washington but still considered under recruited given his talent and upside. At 6’6” 240 lbs. he’s got great length for a college level OT with a lean frame capable of adding weight without sacrificing his natural movement skills and bend. He’s got good initial quickness to fire out of his stance and engage opponents before they can get set up. He’s a finisher that explodes through contact and strikes with force on initial contact. In pass pro, he’s effective getting into position with a quick kick step and good lateral agility to match movement. In addition to Cal and Washington he also holds an offer from San Jose State.
Originally from the Congo, Itete is a dual sport (football/basketball) guy with ideal physical traits for an OT at 6’5” 260 lbs. A plus athlete with good body control and flexibility in his lower half. Flashes good natural strength to move defenders once engaged, he’s balanced at the contact point and drives with power. Active and quick hands, he snaps them into position and uses them well to control defenders and sustain his block through the whistle. Shows good feet and lateral movement to be effective blocking in space and recovering from defenders moves. Nine offers so far from a variety of high level programs including Florida State, Oregon, UCLA, Vanderbilt, and USC. Possesses a strong foundational skillset to build on and develop.
Strong and powerful 6’6” 280 lb. frame for the OT out of Clayton Valley in the east bay. A plus run blocker that can execute different blocks effectively. Can reach to the outside, get to the second level linebackers, and work to the perimeter. Good hand usage and placement allowing him to stick to his blocks and sustain throughout the play. Solid punch with good extension to initiate contact. At the POA, he’s got a strong and well balanced base to move and overpower defenders. Also shows he can anchor down to sit and absorb an oncoming rush. UMass was the first to offer back in May but his recruitment is in the early stages and building. Expect more offers to come as he’s able to showcase his skillset.
Highlights
Impressive three sport athlete at 6’5” 260 lbs. with length. He’s got good movement skills, coordination, and initial quickness to explode off the ball and gain positional leverage on the snap. Takes good angles and flashes plus short area burst to be an effective puller and blocker in space. He’s a tough and aggressive finisher at the POA that is heavy handed and strikes with force using good leverage/pad level to generate power. A bully on the interior that shows good instincts and awareness to adjust as the play develops. Also plays DL at Loyola where his athleticism and movement skills show in his ability to redirect and pursue. Two offers to his name thus far first from Colorado State and then from Louisville right before the start of his junior season.