Idaho is looking to improve upon a 4-7 record in 2021 as Jason Eck steps into the head coach role for the Vandals. The Vandals have been extremely active on the recruiting trail this offseason and have landed multiple Power-5 transfers over the past few weeks. Idaho picked up a huge commitment as former Notre Dame linebacker Paul Moala announced his transfer on social media.
“bear with patience thine afflictions, and I will give unto you success” 🖤🇹🇴 #VsUp pic.twitter.com/ozpPfna899
— Paul Moala (@PaulMoala) April 5, 2022
Moala was a consensus 3-star prospect out of Mishawaka, IN and ranked as a Top-10 player in the state of Indiana in the class of 2018. Moala was selected as the 2017 IndyStar Mr. Football Defensive Back and the 2017 Northern Indiana Conference North Division MVP. The 5-foot-11, 222-pound defensive back totaled 67 tackles, 5 punt/kick return touchdowns, 2 fumble recoveries, and 1 interception his senior season. Moala committed to Notre Dame over other FBS programs including Ball State, Bowling Green, & Hawaii.
Moala was able to find his way on the field as a true freshman for Notre Dame as he moved to linebacker for the Fighting Irish. Over his first two seasons at Notre Dame Moala saw action in 19 games, but missed significant time in 2020-2021 with multiple torn Achilles injuries. Moala totaled 22 total tackles, 1 tackle for loss, and 1 forced fumble throughout his Notre Dame career. Moala will have two years of eligibility left for the Vandals.
The Vandals lost Big Sky All-American LB Tre Walker and Christian Blackburn this offseason. The linebacker position is still a strength of the defense due to the return of Fa’Avae Fa’Avae and Hogan Hatten. Moala will bring a wealth of experience and talent to the linebacker position for the Vandals. Moala is coming into the 2022 season fully healthy after overcoming his second Achilles injury and should be one of the leaders of the defense throughout the 2022 season.
Idaho opens the 2022 season with back-to-back road games against Power-5 programs Washington State and Indiana.
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