Goforth Learns UW Playbook, Already Knows How to Inflict LB Damage
It wasn’t difficult for Ralen Goforth to come in and quickly pick up Washington’s defensive playbook.
The former USC starting linebacker announced his decision to transfer north on Dec. 19, 2022, nearly a week before the UW finished its season with 27-20 victory over Texas in the Alamo Bowl.
When spring ball arrived, Goforth had used that time to gain a full understanding of the Husky playbook and learn his position. Over the summer, he went even more in depth in gauging how the Husky defense operates.
With Lincoln Riley's new USC coaching staff, Goforth started just four games last season, asked to accept a lesser role than before. He'll likely come off the bench for the Huskies, who welcome his aggressive presence.
In the 11th fall practice on Tuesday, Goforth sacked back-up quarterback Dylan Morris on his fourth drive of the day. Two plays later, he followed with a firm tackle of junior running back Dillon Johnson for a 1-yard loss.
“Of course, when you first come in you've got to learn the system," Goforth said after Tuesday's practice. "You've got to learn the ins and outs, the little tweaks and adjustments that come with a playbook. But this isn’t my first rodeo. This is like my fourth playbook I’ve had to learn, and I’ve had one year to do it."
In his four seasons at USC, the former St. John Bosco High School product recorded 105 tackles in 29 games, 13 of which were starts, while also having an impact on special teams.
With the Huskies, Goforth joins a veteran linebackers corps that has been rotating throughout fall camp. Senior Edefuan Ulofoshio and junior Alphonzo Tuputala have taken the bulk of the first-team reps with Goforth backing them with an experienced presence.
William Inge, UW co-defensive coordinator and linebackers coach, named Goforth and juniors Carson Bruener and Drew Fowler as valuable members of his linebacker depth.
“It’s really good; we've got a gang of guys that can go top to bottom,” Goforth said. “The guys have really come together. We’ve all learned the playbook inside and out, so I’m really proud of our guys.”
While he isn’t likely to become a starter for UW this fall, at least not at first, the hard-hitting Goforth will be a valuable member of a team with big aspirations.
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