The 12th stop on the NIKE Football Training Camp circuit was rainy Corvallis.
Just the day before the valley was splashed with sunshine, however come camp time,
the 230 recruits caught a glimpse of true northwest weather. None seemed too bothered,
but the inevitable "that's Oregon" was heard throughout the day.

As the day progressed, stretching drills were completed and the linebackers
and defensive line took it to the Reser Stadium turf to brave the elements.
Meanwhile corners remained inside the Truax Indoor Center. Quite a few players
stood out on the day, but there were some that deserved higher praise than the
others; here they are:

Defensive Line

Taniela Tupou (6-2 260) Everett, WA - Listed as a Washington commit,
Tupou brought his A-game Sunday. Taniela was strong at the point of contact
and had offensive lineman scrambling to try and hold off his rush. While he
mainly looks like a straight ahead bull rush type guy, he did show good footwork
and technique staying low in his rush and gaining leverage well on his blocker.
He is listed as a strong side d-end and did get reps both inside and out, looking
pretty dominant from both positions.

Tupou walked away with MVP honors in Corvallis, just like he did in Eugene.
Tupou is listed as a 4.8 40 guy, and at just 6-2 I wouldn't expect him to get
looks at defensive end as he's listed in his Rivals profile. I expect him to
put on 10-20 pounds and play inside where he looks the most explosive. Taniela's
first step is quick and efficient. His play of the day was when he took Isaac Seumalo and lifted him off the ground and threw him into the simulated quarterback
five yards beyond the line of scrimmage.

Video of Tupou shows from
DE and DT