Four-star OL Samuelu Utu commits to SMU

Orange Lutheran (Calif.) offensive lineman Samuelu Utu announced moments ago he’ll play his college ball at SMU.

Utu backed off his commitment from Alabama two weeks ago and all the buzz immediately turned to the Mustangs.

“I’m very excited about my decision,” Utu said. “I love the all around fit and I’m very happy with how everything turned out for me.”

Utu officially visited SMU over the summer and they were actually the school we thought would land him. He loved his visit, the campus vibe and his relationship with the coaching staff. 

Alabama rallied and Utu committed to the Tide in June. He’ll now play his college ball at the school we thought was the best fit all along.

“The biggest thing with SMU was the culture,” Utu said. “My relationship with coach (Garin) Justice (OL coach) and coach Lashlee is by far one for the books and it was always about more than just football with them.

“Every time I talked with them, it was always about life, whether good or bad, going back to my sophomore year. Coach Justice constantly showed me love despite various circumstances that occurred in my life, the passing of my aunties, things like that.”

Utu said his faith played a role in his decision as well.

“A big factor for me is SMU is a christian university,” Utu said. “It’s Christ centered and that’s big for me. Life is about so much more than just football 

“I also love the offense and how well I fit in there. It really is a great all around fit and I can’t wait to get to work.”

Utu is currently rated a high end four-star prospect and the No. 328 player nationally in the Rivals Industry Ranking. He’s one of the region’s top offensive line prospects and has been a four-year starter at tackle for the Lancers, one of the state’s top power programs. 

Utu played primarily right tackle this season but can play just about anywhere along the offensive line including center.

He offers a ton of positional versatility and has tackle feet, balance and athleticism but has more of a guard frame and we think he ends up inside at the college level. He has a volleyball background and is a natural athlete with solid lateral mobility.

He’s more advanced right now as a pass protector and we would love to see him add a bit more physicality as a run blocker but there’s a lot to work with here.