Some Key Locals Are Leaving

It’s tough to turn down a scholarship offer from USC Coach Pete Carroll, but that’s what two of the Southland’s top high school football players did Wednesday.

Tight end Konrad Reuland of Mission Viejo signed with Notre Dame and safety Jonas Mouton of Venice chose Michigan.

“It was hard to turn [USC] down, but it was the perfect fit for me,” said Reuland, who announced his decision weeks ago. “At Notre Dame, it just felt right.”

Mouton, who also considered Texas, was rated the third-best safety in the nation by one national scouting service.

Mouton’s decision to pass on the Trojans opened a scholarship for defensive back Alfred Rowe of Long Beach Poly, who had previously committed to Oregon State.

In another late decision, lineman Sione Fua of Encino Crespi signed with Stanford.

Los Angeles Dorsey had five players sign Wednesday with major colleges -- four with Pacific 10 Conference schools: Running back Stafon Johnson with USC, defensive end Keith Browner with California, defensive end Preston Brooks with Washington State, linebacker Mark Johnson with Ohio State and lineman Jovon Hayes with Arizona.

-- Eric Sondheimer