USC Football: Scouting 2024 Offensive Lineman Commit Makai Saina
Martin (Arlington, TX) offensive lineman Makai Saina committed to USC back in June of 2023. He is one of four offensive line commits in the Trojan’s 2024 class. The 6-4 ~280 pound interior lineman does have experience playing left tackle, but given his height, his potential may be higher as a guard or a center.
AllTrojans.com broke down Saina’s junior and sophomore film to better understand why USC courted Saina so intently, and perhaps get a feel for how quickly he could make a difference in the trenches for the Trojans.
Saina is very technically sound, but his physicality is the highlight of his skillset. He’s got a devastating punch and is explosive out of his stance. He’s got solid hip mobility and plays with elite leverage. His first two steps out of his stance are lightning-fast, allowing him to get into the chest of the defender he’s blocking in an instant.
As far as pass protection, he’s solid there too. Has good balance coming out of his stance and impressive lateral speed when he’s out at tackle. Can transition from kick step to a power step with ease. Saina’s skillset is versatile, but we think he would be best utilized as a guard at the next level.
In the Big 10, the defensive line play is a notch above that of the Pac 12. We think Saina would be leveraged as a guard, helping to open up running lanes for the Trojans. His ability to drive defensive tackles off the ball is elite, and if he develops further, he should be a difference-maker for the Trojans.
Saina passed up offers from Texas, Texas A&M, Auburn, and Georgia to name a few. We think that if he continues to add strength to his frame, Saina could begin to see the field in year two or three of his college career.
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