The brother of a past National Championship game runner-up looks like a prime candidate to set the tone on the Seminoles defensive line should FSU aggressively pursue him.
Florida State football has between March and December to build up its current five-person 2027 recruiting class.
That includes head coach Mike Norvell and his coaching staff hitting places outside of the Sunshine State. The west coast happens to have talent who look like potential Seminoles and tone setters for the future.
We've already mentioned Isaiah Phelps of Pacifica High in Oxnard as a linebacker candidate. Westlake High wide receiver/tight end Charles Davis in one more who can bolt the offense post Duce Robinson.
Now we dive into why Alifeleti "Tolo" Tuihalamaka is worth pursuing if you're the Seminoles.
Tuihalamaka has Relentless Motor
Noles Roundtable never saw "Tolo" take plays off whenever we watched Oaks Christian High play.
Tuihalamaka runs with a hot motor for four quarters and eventually becomes the one wearing down his opponents.
He brings a cat-quick snap explosion that makes him advanced for a younger defensive lineman prospect. Tuihalamaka stresses out offensive tackles immediately as he's already past the line of scrimmage once the ball moves.
But his versatility should win over defensive coordinator Tony White. Oaks Christian sometimes slid him inside as a three-technique defender and still was hard to counter.
What Others Said About 'Tolo'
Count national recruiting analyst Greg Biggins as one who liked what he saw out of the Lions star edge rusher. Here's what he wrote in his prospect evaluation.
"Versatile defensive lineman who played inside and edge as a sophomore but probably projects best as a traditional defensive tackle or 3-tech at the next level," Biggins wrote. "He’s a big framed athlete who measured in at a solid 6-3.5, 265 pounds at the All-22 Camp in March with an 80” wing and can easily hold another 30 pounds or so with ease."
"Tolo" also thrived next to a future Miami Hurricanes edge rusher with the Lions.
"Had a productive season playing opposite Miami signee Hayden Lowe," Biggins said. "He’s strong at the point, can stand up an opposing offensive lineman and has strong hands."
Biggins adds how Tuihalamaka is "naturally strong" with his bull rushes. But will need to develop more counter moves moving forward.
"He’s high motor player who pursues well to the football and makes plenty of effort plays running down guys from outside his area," Biggins said.
Is Florida State too Late or Can FSU Lock him in?
He sits at 31 current offers and could land nearly 40 by the time his senior year arrives.
There's no word yet on "Tolo" cutting down his list of schools. But Florida State must enter the picture ASAP, as there's no report of a Seminoles offer.
The defensive lineman looks perfect for White's interior rush ideas. Plus can kick outside and manhandle offensive tackles.
He already holds five offers from Atlantic Coast Conference schools....including rival Miami.
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