USC lands stud from class of 09

You knew Compton (Calif.) Dominguez linebacker Marquis Simmons would end up a Trojan eventually, the only question was when. That was answered on Monday when the talented sophomore committed to USC.

There has been several talented Simmons brothers over the years who have gone on to play at the high level Div I level. Just recently, Maurice Simmons, a current junior 'backer at Dominguez committed to USC. So when you hear that the Marquis is the best of the group, and it's something we've been hearing for years, you know the kid can play.

"I just committed yesterday," Simmons said. "That's where I've always wanted to go and I didn't see any reason in putting the decision off any longer. USC is just a great school and a great fit for me. Having my brother going there and being able to play with him is huge, it's something we've always talked about doing.

"I love the coaches over there and just feel like it's part of our family. I've been up there a ton of times already and once they offered, I knew I would be going there. I decided to do it now to just end the hassle and now I don't need to worry about recruiting for the next two years. I can just enjoy high school and focus on our football season."

Simmons, 6-0, 210 pounds is already bigger than Maurice and has the frame to really blow up in college. He's a thick kid who runs well, hits like a truck and is very physical. He was a 1st team all-state underclass selection a year ago and by the time he's a senior, will likely be among the top five linebacker prospects in the nation.

"I think he has a chance to be the best of all the brothers," Dons coach Keith Donnerson said. "They're all good, don't get me wrong, but Marquis, there is just something about him. He's a natural and his frame really projects well. He's not the workout warrior that Maurice is right now but he's a very committed football player and once he hits the weights hard, he's really going to blow up."

Simmons was already hearing from schools from all over the country and was also offered by UCLA.

"The attention was cool but I'm a Trojan, there was no need to look around or waste anyone's time," Simmons said. "I'm very excited right now. I know I have two years left but I already can't wait to get to SC and run out of the Coliseum for the first time, it's going to be special."