The buzz has been brewing around five star tackle San Clemente offensive tackle Kyle Murphy for quite some time. During the offensive line/defensive line challenge at the Opening Event in Eugene, Murphy was the immovable object. JC Shurburtt of 247 Sports has more.
During the offensive line/defensive line challenge, Murphy again showed why he’s one of the top prospects in the country and a five-star prospect according to 247Sports. The 6-foot-7, 280-pounder was dominant during one-on-ones. He has such good feet and balance and his strength (which will improve in time) allows him to stonewall defensive linemen that attempt to bull rush him. Murphy’s recruitment could come down to Oregon and Stanford, according to the buzz we heard on Friday.
The last nugget is certainly what will draw the most interest. Oregon & Stanford?
The Ducks certainly need help in the offensive line. They lost many of their starters from their National Championship team, and tackles Mark Asper and Darrion Weems are both graduating. Murphy could play immediately--his technique is sound and he'd be instantly a hassle for many Pac-12 defenders.
But Stanford, with their traditional power pro-like offense, seems like the natural fit. Regardless of what you might think of the greatness of Andrew Luck, the resurgence of Stanford has had as much to do with their dominant offensive line play. With the Cardinal tackles moving toward graduation (Jonathan Martin a junior, Tyler Mabry a senior), Murphy could be that force that negates the pass rush of numerous blitz-happy teams like Oregon, and catapults him further in status up NFL Draft boards. Add in the fact that the Cardinal are pursuing him the heaviest (along with Cal, for that matter), and Murphy might look beyond the traditional power of USC and move onto the next big program.
For more coverage of Oregon football recruiting, Addicted to Quack is your spot. For more coverage of Stanford football recruiting, check out Rule of Tree.