Umodu checks out the Trojans

UCLA commit Tobi Umodu said when he committed to the Bruins, he wanted to keep his options open and followed through with that by taking in USC's Junior Day two weeks ago. What did the talented linebacker think and where is his recruitment going now?

Umodu, 5-11.5, 211 pounds has played defensive end the last two seasons recording 17 quarterbacks in both his sophomore and junior season. A year ago he earned all-state underclass second team honors but will make the move to linebacker in college.

"It's just a better fit for my size and ability to run," Umodu said. "At the Nike camp this weekend, I'm going to be working out with the linebacker and I'm excited to see how I'll do. I've been working really hard, training heavily for this camp. I just did 30 reps on the bench last week and I'm hoping to run in the 4.6 range as well."

Umodu committed to the Bruins during their Junior Day but said he still wanted to check out both USC and Cal and was at USC two weeks for the Trojans Junior Day.

"I really had a good time, there's a lot of energy there," Umodu said. "It was a lot fun to watch the team practice and see how intense everyone is. I liked the campus and it was fun meeting all the coaches.

"The main difference between the two Junior Days, USC and UCLA's was just how intense the USC coaches are. The coaches were so intense when they talked to us whereas the coaches at UCLA are a little more laid back. I don't think either is better from that standpoint, it's just what style you prefer better.

"For me, I'm kind of a combination of both. Off the field, I'm pretty quiet and laid back. On the field, I'm loud and very aggressive. Pete Carroll pulled me aside at one point and was joking with me about my commitment to UCLA but it was all in fun. They told me they're very interested in me and if they offered me, I would definitely have to consider it but I'm still very solid with UCLA right now.

"My whole family really likes UCLA and I'm very comfortable there too. There is a reason why I committed there early. USC hasn't told me if they plan to offer me or not but I know they will stay in contact. This Saturday, I'm going out to Cal for their Junior Day and then I'll fly back home in time for the Nike camp on Sunday."