Things heating up for SoCal DL
Defensive tackle/offensive lineman Otis Jones (6-2.5, 273, 4.9) from Lawndale (Calif.) Leuzinger has seen his stock a bump upwards after an outstanding senior season.
"Arizona State came by the school last week and requested film," Leuzinger assistant coach in charge of recruiting, Ralph Oliver said. "Arizona State came back and offered Otis a trip on January 11th.
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"Both Arizona State and Washington State think the two local schools (UCLA and USC) are sleeping on a diamond in the rough," Oliver said. "Cal assistant coach Ron Gould compares Otis to former Bear standout now starting in the NFL, Brandon Mebane and Cal may trip him as well.
"Washington State assistant coach Steve Broussard said he's sold on Otis," Oliver said. "Now he has to sell him to the new defensive line coach and the new head coach.
"Oregon assistant coach Don Pellum saw him at the Last Chance Combine put on by Student Sports last where Otis was dominant," Oliver said. "Pellum took his tape and said he was going to let us know if Oregon is going to offer him or trip him.
"Iowa State had their home visit with him last week," Oliver said. "It went very well and Iowa State wanted to leave with a commitment, but Otis wasn't ready though he likes Iowa State a lot.
"Otis' teammate and UCLA commit Uona Kavienga took Otis' tape with him to give UCLA on his official visit last week," Oliver said. "I think that is why he wants more time."
As a senior, Jones accounted for 73 tackles, eight quarterback hurries, seven sacks and two fumble recoveries for one of the area's best defenses.