I commented earlier today on the TDB that Jay Toia in all likelihood left USC for UCLA because he thought he made a mistake signing with USC and liked the Bruins more, hence the quick switch to Westwood.
I’ve just received some very solid info IMO, that would indicate I was totally incorrect.
I’ve now been told by an incredible USC football source that Toia (93) left USC because an “uncle” of his demanded the switch to UCLA, and is apparently so powerful within the family that Toia moved over to UCLA because of this intense pressure — even though Toia really liked his experience at USC, did NOT want to leave, and also likes Clay Helton very much.
I know this may sound incredulous, and is too vague to lend any credence to for many (or may just sound like sour grapes), but I was also told that Toia literally had tears in his eyes when informing Helton of his decision to leave.
I can’t comment with any further facts about Toia’s departure situation other than to say what I have recounted above — that he was forced to leave by an “uncle” within his family, believe it or not.
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