Washington State Recruiting: 2014 OLB Greg Hoyd Commits To Mike Leach
By Nick Nordi
Washington State has received yet another commit for the 2014 class and this one coming from Murrieta, California. Vista Murrieta High School outside linebacker, Greg Hoyd, is just the third to commit to the play for the Cougars in 2014. Florida QB Peyton Bender and Washington DT Marcus Griffin committed recently.
The 6-2, 215-pound OLB has yet to visit Pullman but made his decision anyways. Hoyd says his pick in Washington State is strong and doesn’t see it changing. The Cougar linebacker group is a group that is on the older end with 7 of the 14 linebackers going to be either seniors or juniors.
When comparing Hoyd to the other LB’s on the team only 5 other players are taller than him but almost all weigh more. Size is something that head coach Mike Leach is going after and Hoyd is not lacking in that category.
What do the Cougars like about that 3-star backer?
Hoyd is a great pass-rusher and is going to help out Washington State defend the run. With his head on a swivel and quick speed Hoyd is able to read and digest the play and often times effecting it greatly. On a run play Hoyd is able to shed the blocks and use his speed and power to stop the RB near or behind the LOS. During a passing play Hoyd keeps his hips loose, stays low, and is able to turn and make a play on the ball and doesn’t give up even if the receiver is not close to him.
Besides Washington State Hoyd had offers from Fresno State, Georgia Tech, Utah, and Duke among others.
Below you will find the link to Hoyd’s junior year highlights.