Saia Mapakaitolo commits to USC football recruiting class for 2021

USC football added the commitment of three-star OT Saia Mapakaitolo.

Another week, another new commitment for the USC football program.

On Friday, Saia Mapakaitolo boosted the Trojans’ 2021 recruiting class to 13 commitments with his pledge.

The three-star offensive tackle announced the news on Twitter, thanking his family for their role in his journey as well as the coaches who have shaped him.

“I am excited to announce that I am 100% committed to the University of Southern California!! Fight On!!”

https://twitter.com/curlyheadtsaia/status/1263940565852282883?s=20

What Saia Mapakaitolo’s commitment means for USC football

Mapakaitolo ranks No. 668 in the 247Sports composite, No. 62 in California and No. 58 among offensive tackles.

Like USC’s two other offensive tackle commitments for the class, Mapakaitolo doesn’t rate particularly high in a national setting, but he is one of the top OTs in California. Pledges Mason Murphy and Maximus Gibbs are in the Top 3 for the position in the state with the new addition landing seventh.

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At 6-foot-5, 280 pounds, Mapakaitolo fits the mold for the Trojans’ recent line targets as a lineman with length at his disposal.

Mapakaitolo could also be a voice in the ear of other USC targets coming out of Bishop Alemany. The Trojans are trying to land four-star quarterback Miller Moss and four-star athlete Jaylin Smith. They already have a 2022 commitment from highly-touted linebacker prospect Niuafe Tuihalamaka.

Even though USC signed five offensive tackles, and six total offensive linemen, in the class of 2020, they’re still looking to fill spots in the trenches in 2021. That’s because they will soon have to replace a bunch of key figures on the line. Starters like Alijah Vera-Tucker, Jalen McKenzie, Andrew Vorhees and Brett Neilon will be eligible to leave for the NFL after the 2020 season. The first on that list is likely to depart.

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Either way, rotational player Liam Jimmons and backups Frank Martin and Bernard Schirmer are due to graduate.

Mapakaitolo can help bolster depth as one of a trio of offensive line additions.