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CFI: Player Anatomy: DT Fili Moala, USC - 1.1.09

1.23.09 - Fili Moala flew under the radar, overshadowed by the performances of Peria Jerry and B.J. Raji, but he had a solid week in his own right. He went around Tyrone Green using his quickness on one play and on the next rep, he just bulldozed the Auburn product right into the pocket. Moala also beat Eric Wood, Jonathan Luigs and Herman Johnson, who he overpowered on one play, then followed it up by making the guard move his feet as Moala beat him with his quicks. I think Moala is underrated for two reasons –he’s overshadowed by bigger name players at USC, and he was hurt by playing so much nose tackle in USC’s 3-4 system. I could see him as a potential 5-technique 3-4 end at the next level, not a noseman. - NFL Draft Bible On Location At The Senior Bowl

1.20.09 – Fili Moala ragdolled his opponent on at least three occasions, and made it look routine. He also used his top end strength to push blockers around when he wasn't throwing them to the ground. He also has the look of a first rounder, and he would fit in any scheme. - Draft Guys On Location at the Senior Bowl

Scout's Take - 7.1.08

Pros: Moala has good size and is extremely athletic for his size. He possesses good quickness and speed for an interior lineman and has an eye for the ball. He is versatile, capable of playing either defensive tackle or lining up over the center as a nose tackle. Although he was not as productive as Sedrick Ellis, Moala has seen his tackles increase each season as a Trojan—his best football is in front of him. Headman Pete Carroll has praised Moala’s work ethic and leadership skills.

Cons: Moala needs to work on his jump at the snap and although he has flashed the ability to break into the defensive backfield, more will be expected of him in his final campaign in So Cal. While he has played in all 39 games since arriving at USC, including 20 consecutive starts, there are some minor durability issues. Moala missed almost his entire senior season in high school with a ligament injury in his left foot and missed the second half of spring ball in 2007 due to a left ankle sprain. His footwork needs improvement if he is going to be an impact player at the next level.

Overall: With top ten pick (defensive tackle) Sedrick Ellis and fellow first rounder (defensive end) Lawrence Jackson off to the NFL, Moala is the clear cut leader of the defensive line and will need to have his best season yet for the Trojans to be as efficient defensively. This would not only go a long way to bringing USC’s BCS hopes into fruition, but also solidify Moala as a defensive anchor, someone who makes his fellow linemen (and linebackers) better. A top ten pick is not out of question for this Man of Troy.