Football: Best freshman might be linebacker Toa Taua of Lompoc

Columnist

Nov. 30, 2014 2:15 PM PT

Toa Taua, a 5-foot-10, 185-pound freshman linebacker at Lompoc, might be the best 14-year-old in the Southland.

At least his coach, Andrew Jones, thinks so.

Taua, the younger brother of UCLA defensive tackle Ainuu Taua, was making plays at the varsity level you just don’t see from a freshman.

“He’s pretty fearless and physical for a 14-year-old,” Jones said.

Taua also played running back and figures to get lots of action at both positions over the next three years.

He was first-team all-league for an 11-1 varsity team.

“He definitely made an impact,” Jones said. “He’ll be a national recruit.”

Here’s the link to his season highlights.