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Huge flip: 4-star RB signs Letter of Intent with Michigan State after previously committing to USC
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On what had been a bit of a ho-hum day, Michigan State got a big boost, flipping four-star linebacker Ma’a Gaoteote. It was a big piece of news on a first day of the Early Signing Period that wasn’t bad for Michigan State but wasn’t very good.
The linebacker, who plays for Bishop Gorman in Las Vegas, had committed to USC in February of 2018. He held multiple offers nationally including Colorado, Kansas, Kansas State, Nebraska, Ole Miss and Utah.
Michigan State football flips 4-star Ma'a Gaoteote from Southern Cal https://t.co/vt6Rvmb5tF
— Chris Solari (@chrissolari) December 16, 2020
According to 247Sports, Gaotete is the No. 2 player in Utah, No. 155 nationally and the eleventh best outside linebacker.
And the recruit might turn recruiter for his new program:
Also of note: his brother, Palaie, is in the NCAA transfer portal. Was a 5-star LB in HS who has spent three seasons at USC. Played in two games this year, which also doesn’t count toward eligibility. https://t.co/cFWf9Ksvme
— Chris Solari (@chrissolari) December 16, 2020
His commitment helps take the sting off a day where Michigan State’s most highly-rated recruits didn’t sign.
Four-star recruits Rayshaun Benny (defensive tackle) and Audric Estime (running back) have yet to sign, perhaps signaling that they are candidates to flip elsewhere. Also not signing is offensive tackle Geno VanDeMark, a three-star recruit who is the No. 8 player in New Jersey.