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Daelin Hayes chooses to “Fight On” at USC
The last time USC successfully invaded the Great Lakes State for football recruits, George W. Bush was president. In back-to-back years, the Trojans were able to get commitments from Muskegon wide receiver Ronald Johnson in 2007, and defensive end Nick Perry of Detroit King in 2008.
You can add 2016 linebacker, Daelin Hayes, of Orchard Lake St.Mary’s to that list now, as he committed to USC today, while on a visit. Johnson and Perry both had productive careers at USC, and there’s no reason why the 6-3, 225-pound Hayes can’t either.
"The genuineness of the coaches is what ultimately made me commit," said Hayes. "They’re like a family, and I’m comfortable with them ."
That’s quite the compliment, and catch for head coach Steve Sarkisian, and his USC staff, considering this visit was Hayes’ first to the Southern California school. The interest by USC for Hayes sort of came out of left field, and many thought he would remain home at either Michigan, or Michigan State. Nonetheless, Hayes is a Trojan, and the interest is mutual.
"He said I was a special kid,and completely well-rounded," Hayes said of Sarkisian. "He said I was a versatile player, and said once he watched my film, and saw my camp video/workouts, he fell in love."
Hayes visited with fellow Michigan native, running back Mike Weber of Detroit Cass Tech. The two obviously enjoyed their trip to both USC, and the state of California, like most would. Weber was also offered by the Trojans today, and could have a real chance at landing him as well.
"The trip was flat out amazing from start to finish," said Hayes. "It’s overwhelming with the great things to do there, and great people to meet. I love this school and I am fully committed."
"The most impressive thing aside from the site seeing, was the genuineness of the coaching staff, and the resources around you. Plus Hollywood is right around the corner!"
Obviously, it’s still very early in the process for Hayes, and the recruiting process is a marathon, not a sprint, but he seemed very sincere that USC was the place for him. Instate powers Michigan, and Michigan State will still try to shoot for Hayes, who is one of the top players in his class.
Ironically, Hayes has yet to play a full season of varsity football, but his tremendous size, agility, and upside from the linebacker position intrigues people. He suffered a season-ending injury early in his sophomore year, and is expected to have a huge year in 2014.
