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RECRUITING: Bishop Gorman linebacker Palaie Gaoteote makes early commitment to USC

Bishop Gorman outside linebacker Palaie Gaoteote, one of the nation’s top recruits in the class of 2018, made an oral commitment to Southern California on Sunday.

Gaoteote announced his decision on his Twitter account. His commitment is nonbinding, and the first day he can sign a letter of intent is Feb. 7. USC’s coaches cannot comment until that time.

“After discussing with my family, I am excited to announce that I am committing to further my education and play football for the University of Southern California — USC!!!” Gaoteote wrote in a statement. “I look forward to finishing my senior year with my Bishop Gorman brothers; defending both our State and National Championships; then moving on to join my new family —THE USC TROJANS!!! FIGHT ON!!!”

Gaoteote is rated as a top-25 prospect by every major internet recruiting service. The 6-foot-2-inch, 220-pound standout had nearly 30 known early scholarship offers before selecting the Trojans.

Gaoteote led the Gaels with 68 tackles as a junior and was a first-team all-state selection. He added 11½ tackles for loss and two sacks to help Gorman capture its eight straight large-school state title and third consecutive mythical national championship.

Gaoteote is the first player from Gorman to commit for 2018.

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