Defense leads day for Beavs on NSD
After an exciting 9-4 season with big wins on the national stage, Oregon State was primed for a huge recruiting season. Mike Riley didn’t disappoint, delivering some huge defensive prospects to Beavers Nation.
As national signing day comes to a close, here’s a breakdown of the Beaver’s top recruits for 2013.
Hunt headlines a group of great defensive commits. (Photo: Robert Guathier / Los Angeles Times)
Dashon Hunt, CB
Westlake High School, CA
At 5’9″, 175 pounds, Dashon Hunt doesn’t have ideal size for a cornerback, but plays bigger than his body. Sounds like the perfect guy for a Mike Riley defense.
A dynamic athlete, Hunt does everything right. He has great instincts, and plays just as good in man-to-man as he does with zone coverage.
The four-star athlete has had a long standing commitment to Oregon State. According to ESPN, Hunt said he picked the school because:
The atmosphere and everything of the school, the area and all that. I just felt like I could live in Corvallis for four years comfortably, more than I could at Boise or in Lincoln.
With star corner Rashaad Reynolds on his way out after the 2013 season, Hunt will most likely redshirt this year with a chance to start in 2014.
Hunter Jarmon, WR
Midway High School, TX
The three tools needed to succeed in Riley’s pro-style offense are speed, hands and route running. Hunter Jarmon encapsulates all those traits.
At 6’1″, 190 pounds, Jarmon has great length and flexibility. His speed and elusiveness make him a threat after the catch, and he’s not afraid to make big catches in traffic.
When asked about his recruitment by ESPN’s Damon Sayles, Jarmon said:
I just had a gut feeling about it. They’ve got a really good fan base. And overall, I feel that Oregon State can help me become a better man.
The four-star wideout was considered a favorite for WSU, but a strong pitch from OSU’s running backs coach Chris Brasfield sealed the deal.
With plenty of depth at the position, Jarmon will most likely redshirt. But if Brandin Cooks heads for the NFL early, there’s a chance Jarmon starts come 2014.
Edwin Delva, DT
Antelope Valley College, FL
Mike Riley is well known for his junior college pickups, and this year was no different. Headlining the group is defensive tackle Edwin Delva.
At 6’3″, 280 pounds, Delva has great raw tools with a chance to add bulk to his frame. With a high motor and great first step, Delva has the tools to be a solid interior pass-rusher and disruptive force off the line.
After making his commitment, Mike Riley said of Delva (h/t ESPN):
Edwin will make an impact on this team next season. He’s an important piece of the puzzle at defensive tackle where we lose a pair of starters off the current team. We are very excited to welcome him to Beaver Nation.
OSU’s starting defensive tackles from 2012 are both seniors, leaving shoes to fill in 2013. With junior college experience, it’s a no-brainier that Delva gets to compete for a starting job.
Mike Riley preps for his NSD press conference (Photo: @OSUBeaversFB)
Steven Nelson, CB
College of Sequoias, GA
Another juco commit, Steven Nelson is a solid cornerback prospect.
Nelson has great man-to-man tools. He’s good at pressing receivers, making it difficult to create separation. His in-play adjustments, when combined with his aggressiveness, make him a magnet for big plays.
Nelson’s skill set almost mirrors that of Jordan Poyer. The two are even similar sizes—Nelson is 6’0″, 185 pounds, Poyer is 6’0″, 190.
On Nelson’s recruit, Riley said:
Steven is an outstanding corner who we have had our eye on for quite some time. He is a talented player who will step into our program and compete immediately.
With Jordan Poyer entering this year’s NFL draft, Nelson has a great chance for playing time next season.
Brandon Arnold, S
Crespi Carmelite High School, CA
The Beavers lack depth at the safety position, and with senior starter Anthony Watkins set to graduate, Mike Riley needs serious support at the position.
The hope is that Brandon Arnold makes the difference.
At 5’11″, 184 pounds, Arnold has plenty of room to add bulk. He’s great against the run and quick to attack the ball carrier, making him perfect in the middle of the field.
About his commitment, ESPN’s Erik McKinney quoted Arnold as saying:
I went in [to the visit] with an open mind and wanting to take everything in. I was set more toward Cal at the time. But after the official, it opened my eyes more toward Oregon State.
His aggressiveness and solid tackling will make him a great fit in Oregon State’s secondary.