Tyree Thompson started his college football career at Sacramento State before transferring to Los Angeles Valley College with hopes of moving on to something grander. Two months ago, after the early signing period, his only scholarship offer was from Rhode Island.
Baraka Beckett didn't receive his first scholarship offer until the spring of his junior season at Los Angeles Windward High. He was originally listed as a two-star recruit on the five-star scale and committed to play for Hawaii.
Both players said they felt they were overlooked prospects with upside, that their ratings didn't match their potential.