Commentary
Presenting a solution
Jahleel Pinner's diverse skill set will help Trojans at both running back spots
Updated: January 25, 2012, 12:27 PM ET
By
Garry Paskwietz | We Are SC
LOS ANGELES -- There is a lot of talk about the Trojans looking for a tailback in this recruiting class, but it's entirely possible that the back they need is already a verbal commit to the team.
When Jahleel Pinner (Mission Viejo, Calif/Mission Viejo) made a pledge to USC last May, it was pretty clear that his intended spot was fullback. The position destination made sense, as Pinner has a solid frame at 5-foot-11, 230 pounds and had experience as a multi-dimensional fullback in Mission Viejo's pro-style system.
During his senior season, however, Pinner was expected to be the primary tailback in the Diablos offense until a knee injury forced him to miss several games. When he returned to the field, Pinner alternated between both tailback and fullback while gaining 559 yards on 113 carries (4.95 yards per carry) and seven rushing touchdowns. Pinner also added 20 catches for 258 yards (12.9 yards per reception) and three receiving touchdowns as the Diablos advanced to the CIF-Southern Section Pac-5 semifinals and ended the season with a 10-3 record.
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