USC football is ready to make a big statement with nation's top recruiting class

The USC Trojans have the opportunity to achieve a milestone unmatched by any program outside the Southeastern Conference. Currently ranked No. 1 overall in the Rivals Industry Composite team rankings for football recruiting, they could become the first non-SEC program to secure the nation’s top recruiting class in the NIL era.

As things currently stand, USC has secured 34 total commitments, including four prospects who have earned a five-star rating from one or more major recruiting outlets. With 93.530 recruiting points according to Rivals, USC holds a narrow lead over Georgia, which ranks second in the class with 93.435 recruiting points.

The Trojans have taken an uncommon route for a national program to reach this point. While USC secures a notable share of out-of-state commitments, frequently drawing talent from Texas and Ohio, the foundation of their recruiting class is firmly rooted in local prospects. Currently, 56% of the 2026 class consists of in-state commitments, and if the Trojans manage to secure a few more before the cycle concludes, that figure could easily surpass 60%.

Assuming all 34 committed players officially sign, the Trojans are not expected to make significant additions to their class. However, USC could expand the group to 36 prospects if the right opportunities arise. While the program has excelled with NIL this cycle and GM Chad Bowden has shown an aggressive approach in his first season in Los Angeles, the large number of commitments requires a strategic approach to NIL at this stage. Currently, 61.76% of the Trojans’ class consists of blue-chip prospects, each holding either a four-star or five-star designation.

Since the start of summer, the Trojans have consistently held the nation’s No. 1 recruiting class and have successfully maintained that position throughout. As National Signing Day approaches, the team, which concluded the season with a 9-3 record and the opportunity to secure a tenth victory, appears to have achieved the necessary results both on and off the field to preserve the top-ranked class in the country.