Michigan Football: USC transfer Jay Toia would be perfect addition

It’s no secret that Michigan football needs more depth at defensive tackle and one former top target in 2021, Jay Toia, just entered the transfer portal.

One thing about the transfer portal is that even if you think a roster is set, it can change in an instant, which is something the USC Trojans experienced this week.

Jay Toia, a 300-pound defensive tackle (6-foot-2, 315 pounds), who Michigan football recruited hard in the 2021 class, but signed with USC, entered the portal on Wednesday.

The move comes after Toia stood out for the Trojans during spring practices and also before he ever played a down for USC football.

Toia is a big-time prospect, held in the same regard as 2021 signee Rayshaun Benny. From Simi Valley California, he’s ranked 186th overall in the 2021 recruiting class according to the 247 sports composite rankings. He also ranked 14th among defensive tackles and according to Chris Balas of The Wolverine, Michigan football is going to make another run at him.

This shouldn’t be a big surprise, given how much effort the Wolverines put into flipping Toia, who actually had been committed to USC for over two years.

Shaun Nua built a strong relationship with him and it sounds like a visit could be in the works, which would be a really good sign that U-M is a serious contender.

Why Toia would be perfect for Michigan

As far as what Toia would bring to Michigan’s defense, here’s a look at his scouting report from 247 sports:

"“Projects best on defense and can overwhelm an opposing center or guard with his strength and raw power. Shows a nice get-off, uses his hands well and does a nice job disengaging and getting up the field. Has improved athletically over the last year, looker quicker off the snap and can run down plays from behind. Plays with a relentless motor and high compete level. More advanced as a run stopper and makes plays despite constant double teams.”"

That scouting report should be exciting to Michigan football fans, especially the part where it talks about overwhelming centers and guards.

And if you take a look at this report from 247 sports, about his decision to transfer, Toia was really impressive during the spring, which makes you believe he could compete for playing time right away next season.

"“Toia operated mainly with the first and second-team defensive line once Pili went down. Toia played so well that he was in line to potentially start going into fall camp. At the very least the freshman played himself on to the two-deep.”"

Certainly, some other programs will be in the mix for a talent like Toia, but the Wolverines have been a presence in his recruitment for a long time and you have to like their chances.

And if it happens, it’s the perfect addition for Michigan at this stage in the offseason.