Football coaches across the country will be anxiously waiting by
their fax machines today in hopes that the anticipated national
letters of intent will arrive from their high school recruits.
UCLA’s 2004 signing class is likely to rank second in the
Pac-10, behind USC’s, according to various Internet
sites.
Heading the Bruin class is cornerback Rodney Van of Long Beach
Poly High School and offensive lineman Shannon Tevaga of La
Mirada. Star defensive end Brigham Harwell from Los Altos in
Southern California, though wavering on his verbal commitment, also
may sign.
But while UCLA is projected to sign a top-15 recruiting class,
the Bruins have missed out on top recruits, especially at the
quarterback position.
Quarterbacks such as Matt Tuiasosopo (Washington), Rocky Hinds
(undecided), Rudy Carpenter (Arizona State University), Anthony
Morelli (undecided) and Erik Ainge (Tennessee) all expressed
interest, but ultimately passed on UCLA.
With the losses of Matt Moore and John Sciarra, who both will
transfer, many had hoped the coaching staff would sign a top young
quarterback to lead the team into the future.
Instead, coach Karl Dorrell went the junior college route,
breaking a traditional UCLA philosophy in signing Santa Monica
College’s David Koral in December.
One of the hardest recruiting aspects for UCLA has been getting
athletes to qualify academically. The Bruins have already lost out
on several recruits due to high academic standards.
Defensive back Bryan Payton de-committed after not qualifying
academically. Linebacker Will Price and defensive back Daniel
Drayton were also not admitted due to academics.
The Bruins have also faced troubles competing with crosstown
rival USC, which has dominated the national recruiting scene and
will likely have one of the best classes for the second straight
year.
Now the coaches have to endure the annual waiting game, hoping
everyone they thought would send their letter of intent will follow
through.