Mount Tahoma Standout Marquise Thorpe-Taylor Commits to UCLA: A Closer Look at the Rising Star’s Impact

In a significant move that shook up the recruiting world, Mount Tahoma’s (Tacoma, WA) class of 2024 offensive tackle, Marquise Thorpe-Taylor, made the pivotal decision to commit to UCLA on May 20th, 2023. This talented athlete, currently the fourth offensive tackle in the Bruins’ 2024 recruiting class, is poised to make a substantial impact on the team’s future. Let’s delve into what makes Thorpe-Taylor an exciting prospect for UCLA and how his commitment reflects the Bruins’ ongoing recruiting efforts.

Key Takeaways:

• Marquise Thorpe-Taylor, hailing from Washington state, is a highly-regarded three-star prospect by 247 Sports, showcasing his potential as one of the finest talents in his class.
• Despite tempting offers from notable institutions like Stanford, Cal, and Arizona, Thorpe-Taylor’s commitment to UCLA underscores his belief in the program’s vision and opportunities.
• His standout qualities include being a finisher with a knack for delivering pancakes, as well as an aggressive approach to pass protection that positions him as a force to be reckoned with on the offensive line.

As we dissect Thorpe-Taylor’s high school film, one attribute becomes immediately evident – he is a finisher. Watching his sophomore and junior seasons, it’s clear that once he secures a firm grip on defenders, he possesses a remarkable ability to complete his blocks with a pancake. This consistent pancake production is the direct result of his active footwork upon engaging a defender, emphasizing his exceptional control and technique. Thorpe-Taylor’s feet, agile and precise, are one of the standout features that will undoubtedly serve him well in the competitive realm of college football.

Beyond his proficiency in run blocking, Thorpe-Taylor’s approach to pass protection stands out as well. Characterized by aggression, he is a serial quick setter. Rather than passively waiting for the pass rush to come to him, he takes the initiative by swiftly engaging off the ball, leaving little room for defenders to exploit. His junior season showcased an even more convincing display of his ferocity, affirming his reputation as a player who embodies the persona of a bully on the field. This relentless aggression is a trait that offensive line coaches covet and will be a valuable asset for the Bruins.

Standing tall at 6-5 and weighing 315 pounds, Thorpe-Taylor possesses the physical attributes needed to push for playing time early in his college career as a Bruin. As UCLA prepares to enter the Big 10 next season, securing talents like Thorpe-Taylor becomes imperative for their future success. While he’s a notable addition to the 2024 recruiting class, the Bruins must continue their recruiting efforts to further solidify their first freshman class in this new chapter of college football.

In the end, Marquise Thorpe-Taylor’s commitment to UCLA represents a significant step in the Bruins’ quest for excellence. With his finishing skills, aggression, and size, he brings a formidable presence to the offensive line, and his journey as a Bruin is one that fans eagerly anticipate. As the college football landscape evolves, Thorpe-Taylor’s name is one that could become synonymous with success in the UCLA football program.