Fred Matua OL 6'2 305 USC Jr.
By: Robert Davis

Fred Matua was slated to start as a true freshman until he went down with a hernia, and ended up redshirting that season. Once he got on the field as a redshirt freshman, he never left the lineup, aside from injuries. He has been a mainstay on the Trojan line at right guard for three seasons.

Matua is nasty. He is tough, and plays with a mean streak on the field. With his strength, low center of gravity, and toughness, he can dominate at the point attack in the running game. He can simply drive defenders off the ball and open a running lane. Matua also shows the ability to get out and pull down the field. Although all his experience is at guard, Matua has served as the Trojans backup center, and may project to that position in the pros as well.

A lack of height is a concern with Matua. He's only listed at 6'2, but may be shorter than that. He's also not the most athletic player, and can be beaten off the snap by tackles with a quick burst. Athletic tackles that can change direction well also give Matua fits.

Matua would have been better served returning to USC for his senior season, but family issues caused him to leave school a year early. He has the ability to play at the NFL level, and could be a standout run blocker. His lack of standout physical skills will hurt him, but his toughness will find him a home in the NFL. He looks to be an early Day Two draft pick.