Archer tackle chooses to go West to USC

E.J. Price, a dominating offensive tackle for Archer, waited till 2:45 p.m. on signing day to commit and had a surprises in store: He signed with Southern California, giving a second afternoon body blow to Georgia. The Bulldogs lost out on both Price and defensive tackle Derrick Brown, the state's top prospect from Lanier High.

1. Versatile: Price, a dominating offensive tackle, who is versatile enough to play guard, graded at 88 percent as blocker his senior season at Archer. He recorded 34 pancake blocks and six blocks leading to touchdowns.

2. Originally wanted UGA: Price committed to Georgia as a junior, but re-opened his recruiting the summer before his senior season. He took officials visits to Auburn, LSU, Michigan State and USC. But his final visit took him to Athens.

3. A mountain of a man: The 6-foot-6, 311-pound Price has room to grow, Archer coach Andy Dyer said. "E.J. is super-athletic for a 320-pound young man," Dyer said. "If he continues to work his trade and grow mentally and physically, he will be able to accomplish great things on the football field."

Archer offensive line coach Brian Lane called Price, “explosive” and praised his ability to get down field to throw “extra-effort” blocks.

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David Purdum

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