USC Football Recruiting: Can the Trojans land No. 1 (2024) Prospect Raiola?

Dylan Raiola is the top quarterback prospect and number one overall player in the 2024 recruiting class. He is already being projected to be a future first-round NFL draft pick. He is already standing tall at 6’3” and 220 pounds and is heavily coveted by top programs.

Raiola was originally committed to Ohio State on May 9, 2022. However, months later, he decommited in December shortly after Ohio State earned the pledge from 2023’s number 13-ranked quarterback Lincoln Kienholz from South Dakota. This has now opened up the door for the University of Southern California.

Pairing himself with USC’s head coach Lincoln Riley would be very interesting. Riley’s track record with molding quarterbacks into Heisman Trophy winners (Baker Mayfield, Kyler Murray, and Caleb Williams) speaks for itself. The only downside is that Raiola may have to wait his turn.

Miller Moss is currently a sophomore and was the 12-ranked (4-star) quarterback with a year of experience under Riley’s system. Behind him, a highly touted incoming freshman Malachi Nelson (5-star) will be pushing for playing time. Caleb Williams is presumably leaving for the NFL Draft after this season to set up a QB for the starting position in 2024.

According to 24/7 Sports, USC may be on the outside of this recruiting race. The Nebraska Cornhuskers appear to be the favorites coming in with a 43% probability of landing the superstar's commitment. There is a buzz around that program with Matt Rhule (former Temple, Baylor, and Carolina Panthers head coach) being named the new head coach. Also, you cannot discount the emotional/legacy factor. Raiola’s father was an All-American center for Nebraska between 1998-2000.

Keep your eyes on this special recruiting battle. Georgia, back-to-back National Champions, are another strong contender in this fight. It would be an amazing get for the Trojans if they can pick the Raiola commitment. This would solidify the quarterback position for years to come.