The USC Trojans have struck gold again on the recruiting trail, securing a commitment from four-star defensive lineman Alifeleti Tuihalamaka. As the 2027 class takes shape, this latest addition is turning heads and raising expectations in Los Angeles.

But what exactly are the Trojans getting in Tuihalamaka? To find out, 247Sports caught up with Greg Townsend Jr., a former USC defensive end (2011-2015) who also served as one of Tuihalamaka's high school coaches. Townsend offered an insider's look at the young lineman's development and potential impact.

"I think Tolo's highest potential is off the edge," Townsend said, using Tuihalamaka's nickname. "People see he can play the three-technique because we needed him there at times, but his real strength is setting the edge and reading his blocker with moves and counter moves."

Townsend, whose father Greg Townsend Sr. was a legendary NFL pass rusher, shared a unique coaching perspective. "One thing my dad taught me is to pass rush like a pitcher. You hit them with the fastball, fastball, then the curveball later. If you get one sack a game off that curveball, that's 10, 11, 12 sacks a season—All-American numbers. I taught Tolo to be patient and find those spots."

Ranked as the No. 181 overall player and No. 21 defensive lineman in the 2027 class by 247Sports Composite, Tuihalamaka joins a growing pipeline of elite talent under head coach Lincoln Riley and new defensive coordinator Chad Bowden. For USC fans, this commitment signals a bright future on the defensive front—one built on patience, power, and a well-timed curveball.