Matai Tagoa'i, nation's No. 14 linebacker, has high hopes for USC Trojans visit this weekend

San Clemente (California) four-star prospect Matai Tagoa'i is one of the top linebackers on the West Coast.

The 6-foot-5, 195-pound class of 2025 defender is rated the nation's No. 105 overall prospect and No. 13 linebacker and has racked up offers from more than 20 programs.

Alabama, Georgia, Miami. Michigan, Notre Dame, Oklahoma, Texas, USC and many others have already come calling, and there's no signs of his recruitment slowing down.

This weekend, Tagoa'i wants to get a closer look at one of his options, taking an unofficial visit to see the USC Trojans for the first time in more than a year.

But rather than looking forward to the gameday atmosphere or a tour of the facilities, Tagoa'i said he plans to watch the USC defense intently.

"To be honest with you, I’m probably the most excited to just be able to watch the schemes and defensive gameplan in person," he said. "Just getting to imagine myself in those several positions that I take pride in being able to play."

On-field fit is a key to Tagoa'i's recruitment, but there's another major key: relationship-building. 

"I'm excited just to build relationships with the coaches and finally get to talk to them after not being on campus for over a year," he said. "And I’m also excited to see the Vegas alums that are on the offensive side of the ball."

USC is still looking for its first pledge in the class of 2025, but has a top-20 collection of talent nationally in the 2024 cycle.

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