Last season, Gaoteote spent most of his time on the field at the “mike”, or “middle” linebacker position of defensive coordinator Clancy Pendergast’s 4-3 defense, a more centrally located position which has more run-stopping and pass-coverage duties. As a true freshman, Gaoteote energized the USC defense with flashes of explosiveness and brilliance that have fans wondering if he can be the next Trojan to add his name to the list of All-American linebackers that have worn the cardinal and gold. We use cookies and other tracking technologies to improve your browsing experience on our site, show personalized content and targeted ads, analyze site traffic, and understand where our audiences come from. Ralen Goforth #19. Griffin played in eight games but was mostly limited to special teams work, as he battled a nagging shoulder injury for most of the season. The leader at inside linebacker is junior Palaie Gaoteote IV. Despite a frustrating offseason, USC Trojan fans can look forward to some positive changes. Register to vote now — and cast your vote at Galen! JT Daniels now in line to start at Georgia ... or is he? By choosing I Accept, you consent to our use of cookies and other tracking technologies. No more excuses. Palaie Gaoteote uses his quickness, agility, and hands to slip away from blockers before they latch onto him, leading to more potential run-stopping plays. 55 is so prestigious. Pete Carroll voted greatest coach in USC history. As another chapter of the storied USC-Stanford rivalry opens this Saturday, a handful of new faces take center stage. Palaie doesn’t have the best change of direction when going for tackles, often leading to completely missed tackles. Essentially, it’s a huge deal, but no one is saying Gaoteote isn’t deserving of it. Helton is overseeing tons of changes after USC’s first losing season in 18 years, and the schedule has nothing but tricky test after tricky test. Palaie Gaoteote IV NCAA Football player profile pages at CBSSports.com. Inside linebacker Palaie Gaoteote leveled a poor walk-on RB late in Thursday practice. USC Trojans fans: It’s time to familiarize yourself with the name Palaie Gaoteote IV. The significance of this honor can not be understated. He started five times as a freshman and was the starter entering the 2019 season. The QB in the middle of Todd Orlando's remodeled unit is Gaoteote. (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); Check your inbox or spam folder to confirm your subscription. Invest with Robinhood today and grow your portfolio. USC Trojans fans: It’s time to familiarize yourself with the name Palaie Gaoteote IV. Coming in to his sophomore season, Gaoteote will look to take advantage of his starting spot and build upon what was a promising freshman season. Solomon Tuliaupupu #58. We’ve reached the majority of team’s halfway points in terms of total games and we’re starting to clear up the picture of the Pac-12 standings. Coming in to his sophomore season, Gaoteote will look to take advantage of his starting spot and build upon what was a promising freshman season. In this summer scouting report, we’ll examine Gaoteote IV’s background and discover how he found his way to the USC Trojans. “No. We tell you which USC Trojans you should keep an eye on next season. Eli'jah Winston #34. Sign up for Ninja Tables Pro to get the best website table available. The latest stats, facts, news and notes on Palaie Gaoteote IV of the USC Trojans While fellow second year players Olaijah Griffin and Isaac Taylor-Stuart have continued to raise eyebrows and are expected to start this season, Gaoteote edges them out in my book due to the playing time and experience he gained last season. USC’s football team will play seven conference games beginning Nov. 7. Thus, while there are many intriguing talents on the defensive side of the ball for USC this upcoming season, Gaoteote has both the physical and mental tools to take the next step in his progression and development, and truly solidify himself as an elite linebacker talent on the collegiate level in 2019. Please also read our Privacy Notice and Terms of Use, which became effective December 20, 2019. Palaie Gaoteote IV . It’s definitely something that should be earned.” - USC freshman LB @PalaieGaoteote pic.twitter.com/oUkoim6aoU. 2019 Pac-12 Football Recreation: Week 8 preview, USC Football Recruiting: 4 Star ATH Julien Simon commits to the Trojans, USC dealing with major defensive injuries ahead of Arizona game, Arizona vs. USC: First look at the Trojans, UCLA Football 2019 Opponent Preview: Southern Cal Trojans, Anything from 4-8 to 11-1 is on the table for USC this year. Palaie Gaoteote IV is a Linebacker who wins with his quickness. Hunter Echols #31. Grant Jones #46.