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USC pledge Zachariah Branch working to flip Miami 5-star commit Francis Mauigoa to the Trojans

Wg0vf-nP_400x400by:Keegan Pope•10/24/22•

bykeeganpope

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Francis Mauigoa (Chad Simmons/On3)

As we wind closer to the Early Signing Period in December, the efforts to flip top prospects committed to other schools will only intensify. By coaches, sure, but also by recruits pledged to other programs. As Miami has struggled out of the gates this season, including an embarrassing 45-21 loss to Duke on Saturday, eyes have turned toward Five-Star Plus+ offensive tackle and Hurricanes commit Francis Mauigoa.

After a photo was posted on Twitter of Mauigoa not looking happy at the Hurricanes’ game on Saturday, USC Five-Star Plus+ wide receiver Zachariah Branch made his pitch to flip Mauigoa on Twitter.

“Neva too late,” Branch wrote with a smiling emoji and tagging Mauigoa’s account.

The 6-foot-5, 327-pounder considered the Trojans among his final schools before committing to the Hurricanes on July 4. Tennessee, Alabama and Florida were also in the mix for him.

Mauigoa is the No. 5 overall prospect in the 2023 class, according to the On3 Consensus, a complete and equally weighted industry-generated average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies. He also ranks as the nation’s No. 1 offensive tackle and the No. 2 senior recruit in the state of Florida.

Francis Mauigoa Scouting Summary

“Wide-bodied, nimble mover who is excelling in his first season as a full-time offensive lineman. Works at right tackle for IMG, but likely projects on the interior due to his arm length and build. Played very well against a national schedule and some top pass rushers as a junior. Uses his natural strength to create a big push in the run game. Plays with a wide base and has considerable pop in his hands. Has mauling qualities as a drive blocker and is athletic enough to get to the second level with ease. Though he doesn’t project as an offensive tackle long-term, showed some very encouraging skills in pass protection.” — Charles Power, On3 Director of Scouting and Rankings