4-star LB Talanoa Ili loves the 'rich tradition' at USC and he has committed to the Trojans

Not too long ago, USC wasn’t a true contender for Talanoa Ili. Things have changed over the last six months. After Oregon was trending much of the fall, the Trojans made some changes, they recruited the four-star linebacker differently, and most importantly, they got him on campus. That started their momentum and the defensive playmaker out of Kahuku High School in Hawaii has committed to USC over UCLA.

“On February 1 is when USC really started rolling for me,” Ili told On3. “Being home, playing in front of all my family and all my people was part of my decision. The rich tradition and connection I have with the coaching staff were other factors for me. Then, being on the big stage at USC, seeing the vision the staff has for the program and being part of that in the future helped in my decision.”

Playing on that stage in the Coliseum was something that really appealed to the No. 97 prospect in the On3 Industry Ranking.

“I want to emphasize that being home is important. Things are changing and college football is going to be in highlighted in L.A. like it was back in the day.”

Lincoln Riley, Chad Bowden and the staff at USC is putting together an impressive recruiting class. They have worked hard to keep the best at home and the new commit can’t wait to strap on the pads with those guys.

“What excites me is playing with a bunch of the guys I’ve grown up playing with/against and competing for a national championship,” Ili said.. “Playing for the tradition that USC carries, especially with the Polynesian culture, excites me too. There’s a long list of things that excite me about going to USC, but those are the biggest.”

The official visit to USC sealed the deal with Ili

UCLA did a great job. The staff in Westwood gave Ili a lot to think about, but the Trojans did a great job earlier this month when they got him back on campus.

“I spent time with coach Rob Ryan, coach Lynn, coach Riley, Dogg, and DLo and they all made me feel welcome,” Ili said. “I can’t even count how many times I’ve been at USC. I’ve been there a lot and the official visit was really good. It felt good to be back on campus, to see the staff and be around everyone.

“Their interest in me showed and I really liked how they treated my family and the family part of the school.

“I knew I wanted to come home and play for the home team.”