Francis Mauigoa, the No.1 ranked offensive tackle in the nation, created his own form of fireworks on Independence Day. He announced his commitment to play for the University of Miami.
The five-star prospect chose the Hurricanes over Florida, Alabama, Tennessee, USC, and Hawaii. Offensive line coach Alex Mirabal formed a solid bond with Mauigoa, enough to bring him to Coral Gables.
“I developed a great relationship with coach Cristobal and coach Mirabal (OL coach) and talked to them all the time. The whole staff recruited me hard, though it wasn’t just them. I feel like someone from the staff would reach out to me every day and I really have a strong comfort level at the school too.”
-Francis Mauigoa
Where Does Francis Mauigoa Stand?
If being the No.1 OT in the nation is not enough, Mauigoa ranks as the fifth-best player on ESPN’s Class of 2023 Top 300 prospects. He received a 90 scout grade.
Before transferring to IMG Academy in Bradenton, FL, Mauigoa played in his native American Samoa and at Aquinas High School in San Bernardino CA.
The 6-foot-5, 330-pound recruit played on both sides of the ball in his freshman year. In his first year of high school football, he recorded 59 total tackles, ten tackles for losses, three sacks, and three fumble recoveries.
After a monstrous year on defense, he focused on playing the offensive tackle position. He earned Junior All-American honors this past season.
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In Conclusion
Miami lands its highest verbal commit during its recruitment process. The Hurricanes leap to No. 8 in the nation on 247Sports’ team rankings for 2023 recruiting.
Mauigoa is the first ESPN 300 offensive lineman to join the Hurricanes since Laurence Seymore in 2021. The OT becomes the sixth prospect on ESPN’s Top 300 to commit to Mario Cristobal’s program. He is the only five-star recruit for the Canes.
The 12 recruits reveal a promising sign for Miami’s future. Cristobal’s successful recruiting could lead to a new chapter of the Hurricane’s dynasty and resurrect the U.