Yesterday, we highlighted a tough run blocking offensive lineman from Army West Point. Today, we look at one of the best college linebackers of the 2000’s.
Rey Maualuga is one of the most decorated high school linebackers of all time. Coming out of St. Bonaventure High School in Ventura, California, he made just about every All American and top one hundred list that is possible. That’s what sparked his recruitment and led him to USC.
Maualuga played under Pete Carroll at USC who had previously developed elite linebackers in Lofa Tatupu and Keith Rivers. The trend continued with Maualuga and his teammates Brian Cushing and Clay Matthews. The trio made for one of the most intimidating linebacking cores of all time.
In his freshman season, Maualuga was named as a freshman All American for his dominant play. He did get into an altercation on Halloween that season and had to attend Alcoholics Anonymous and complete community service. His sophomore season, he was a Butkus nominee and was named All Pac-10.
In 2007, Maualuga was earned his second of three All Pac-10 honors and was named Rose Bowl MVP. Many believed he would go to the draft but Maualuga decided to play his senior year for Coach Carroll.
2008, Maualugas senior season was packed with accolades. He was once again named All Pac-10, was a unanimous All American, the Pac-10 Defensive Player of the Year, and took home the Bednarik Award. Stud! He capped off his career with 273 tackle, 9 sacks, and 5 interceptions.
Tomorrow for day 57, we look at a big run stuffer that has had a stellar career in the NFL but made his name in Tuscaloosa.