Man, talk about covering your bases...

Today, Scout.com reported that 2014 offensive tackle Casey Tucker has given his verbal commitment to Lane Kiffin and the Trojans.

Tucker, who hails from Chandler, Ariz., is a beast in the trenches who already possesses great size at 6'5", 270 lbs and is a master technician despite his tender age.

According to Jason Jewell from Scout.com, Tucker had this to say about why he pulled the trigger so early for USC:

"When I went on my unofficial visit, it was all just so perfect. I committed early because I didn't want to pass up on an opportunity like this."

Though unrated like all prep juniors, Tucker will be very highly regarded next year when recruiting services designate "stars" to individual players. In 2013, he will be at least a 4-star prospect if not higher.

Already, Tucker was a hot prospect, as evidenced by a host of high profile offers from programs throughout the nation including Notre Dame, Oklahoma and Michigan.

With Tuckers verbal, the Trojans now have three 2014 commitments, all of them offensive linemen, as he joins big time recruits Toa Lobendahn and Jordan Poland to form an extremely solid nucleus for the future.