WSU Cougars LOI’s 2014: DE/OLB Hercules Mata’afa Recruiting Profile
By Nick Nordi
School: Lahaina High School – Lahainaluna, HI
Position: Defensive End, BUCK
Vitals: 6’3, 225 lbs
Rank:
- Rivals: NR
- Scout: NR
- ESPN: #110
- 247Sports: #121
FBS Offers: New Mexico State, Oregon State, San Diego State, and WSU
Player Type: Disruptor, Pass Rusher
Best Attributes: Good first Move, Hand Fighting, Shed Blocks
Prediction and Early Impact:
Hercules Mata’afa is the type of player that is able to get into the backfield and disturb the order of operations. Because Mata’afa is on the smaller side he has a little bit of a hard time making the tackles and often needed help from the rest of his teammates.
One thing I noticed that he will bring to the table for the Cougars is his ability to disrupt the play before it happens. Off the line Mata’afa has no issues beating his opponent on his first step and is easily able to shed the blocks from the offensive line.
I don’t see him getting any playing time his first year and taking a redshirt. With an extra year in the weight room Mata’afa will be able to bulk up and get a little bit bigger and stronger adding to his frame and his ability to wrap up and make the plays by himself.
“Freshman Impact Potential” Rating: 0
Highlights:
More Articles:
Gardenhire Flips to UW, Mata’afa Commits to WSU as Cougars Continue Crazy Recruiting Week
2-Star DE Hercules Mata’afa Signs With Washington State Cougars on Signing Day