Introduction of Chad Bowden to USC receives praise for latest USC GM's efforts

Recruiting will never be anything like an exact science. It has to be stated, objectively, USC is doing much better in that department compared to past years. Currently, with the top 2026 and 2027 classes, the future of the Trojans program is looking highly encouraging.

Many would like to diminish these wins by stating that it is only about the money. In truth, multiple programs have the ability to go deep into their pockets, indirectly and now directly. A lot of the 'bidding' can end up being a zero-sum game. If an athlete truly selects a school over a slight amount more, then it probably isn't the best of situations that will have the best of endings anyway.

Instead, USC is being much more tactful in its approach and spending the time and resources going after prospects they have a good read on and who they believe will help to propel the program forward.

While discussing at the recent OT7 event, as shared on X by 247Sports' Tom Loy, Brandon Huffman pointed to the presence of GM Chad Bowden as the main reason as to why the Trojans are performing so much better on the trail.

Huffman pointed out how USC would attempt to have a national approach. While that approach made sense in theory, it ultimately cast too wide of a net that then saw many top local players end up committing elsewhere.

Critical change marks turning point for USC

Bowden has made his focus securing the SoCal area and making sure that talent on the West Coast stays home. Then, being more targeted when pursuing options in SEC territory and the Midwest, the Trojans can be more purposeful in who they try to earn a commitment from.

It is this shift that is already paying huge dividends and will continue to be the bedrock of future USC recruiting success. If and when the Trojans win a title, it could very well be possible that the early months of 2025 will be when fans are able to trace much of the success back to.