Defensive tackle finds fit at ASU

David Moala visited Arizona State this past weekend and heard everything he wanted to from the coaching staff and the players so the defensive tackle from Gardena (Calif.) Serra decided to commit.

The 6-foot-1, 285-pound prospect liked that the players were talking about rebuilding the program after a 6-6 season that included a lot of close losses. He also enjoyed hearing from the coaching staff that they wanted him to play defensive tackle after USC talked to him about moving to the offensive line.

Everything worked for Moala at Arizona State and he decided to end his recruitment.

"The ASU players really stood out," Moala said. "They turned their season around, they're really committed and they feel like they can turn the program around. I feel like they could, too.

"They lost a lot of close games but they didn't make any excuses. I want to be a part of that where ASU turns it around. Hopefully, we get to the Rose Bowl and I feel like we can do it and I feel like ASU is the place to be."

Southern Cal had shown some interest in Moala but as an offensive lineman and the aggressive and physical defensive tackle didn't want to switch positions. Oregon State was showing lots of interest but recently backed off.

Miami was a big-time favorite for Moala during the season - he would even flash the 'U' sign with his hands after big plays - but after visiting the Hurricanes last weekend with Serra teammates George Farmer and Marqise Lee, Moala didn't see himself in that setting.

"It was good over there but I didn't feel like I could play for them," Moala said of the Hurricanes. "It was a good trip but I didn't see myself there. I felt like ASU was the best place for me."

San Diego State and San Jose State also offered but after Arizona State got involved and after his visit this past weekend Moala felt comfortable making his decision

"I'm really excited about it," Moala said. "SC recruited me and Oregon State did, too. Oregon State pulled off and SC wanted me to play o-line. I didn't want to play a different position so I felt ASU was the place to be."