Mark Pszonak contributed to this report.
The class of 2017 is signed and sealed, so as we look back on how programs did, we thought it would be interesting to rank the best 1-2 punches at each position.
Today we take a look at the defensive tackles.
Note: Only teams signing two or more at this position are eligible.
1. FLORIDA STATE
The skinny: The Seminoles’ coaching staff worked overtime to pull in Wilson, and that effort should pay off immediately this fall. And while he will not receive as much hype as Wilson, also adding the No. 5 defensive tackle, Parks, to this class should solidify Florida State’s defensive interior line for years to come.
Farrell’s take: This is an amazing combination here. Wilson was probably the biggest out-of-state pull in the country, Najee Harris included.
2. USC
The skinny: Adding both Tufele, the No. 4 defensive tackle, and Tuipolotu, the No. 7 defensive tackle, during the last week of the recruiting cycle was huge for the Trojans. The coaching staff was able to pull Tufele away from Utah on Signing Day, while it flipped Tuipolotu from Washington in late January. Both have the potential to make an immediate impact this fall.
Farrell’s take: Two athletic, non-stop motor gap shooters here for USC and they complement each other very well. Both of these guys play with great leverage, have frames that can fill out and play the run well while also running plays down. This is a very athletic duo.
3. MICHIGAN
The skinny: Pulling an elite talent like Solomon out of SEC country on Signing Day is always a huge recruiting accomplishment for any Big Ten program. The Wolverines found Solomon an interior partner by also nabbing Jeter, the No. 13 defensive tackle, out of Pennsylvania. While not as dynamic as Solomon, Jeter should be able to add depth to the position early in his collegiate career.
Farrell’s take: Solomon is right up there with Wilson as an out-of-state get as this is huge for Michigan recruiting. Teaming him up with Jeter, who is powerful and very effective against the run, makes this is a dangerous duo. They are a perfect fit for what Don Brown likes to do with his tackles.
