RECRUITING: Desert Pines football standout Poutasi chooses Utah

That’s exactly why Utah fans have extra reason to celebrate this holiday season.

Desert Pines High School senior offensive tackle Cedrick Poutasi announced Thursday he has orally committed to Utah. The 6-foot-5-inch, 325-pounder revealed his decision at the Offense-Defense High School All-American Bowl at Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, Texas, where he played offensive tackle for the West team.

“He’s just a beast, a mauler,” Desert Pines coach Paul Bennett said of Poutasi. “He does well in his pass protection and (in the) run. He’s going to do well at the next level.

“For a 6-5, 325 guy, he’s very agile, and he’s going to make their program better.”

Repeated attempts to contact Poutasi after the game were unsuccessful. He was named the game’s Offensive Lineman of the Year after helping the West to a 21-14 win over the East.

Bennett said Poutasi also considered scholarship offers from Oklahoma State, Oregon, Washington and Arizona State. Poutasi will be able to sign a national letter of intent Feb. 1.

Poutasi was a first-team all-state pick as a senior, helping pave the way for the Jaguars (4-6) to reach the Sunrise Region playoffs.

Poutasi moves well for a player his size, running the 40-yard dash in 5.2 seconds, according to Rivals.com. He can bench press 370 pounds and squat 510, according to Rivals, which ranks him as the state’s No. 2 prospect regardless of position.

Bennett said Poutasi felt at home during his official recruiting visit to Utah in October.

Bennett attended Thursday’s bowl game and expressed pride in Poutasi representing the Jaguars.

“It’s unreal. It’s been a pleasure working with him for three years, and we’re proud of the decision he made,” Bennett said.