USC Secures Top Recruiting Class First Time Since 2006

USC has reclaimed its position as a powerhouse in college football recruiting, marking the first time since 2006 that the Trojans have secured the nation’s top recruiting class. This milestone was confirmed on early signing day, reflecting a significant shift in strategy under head coach Lincoln Riley and recruiting general manager Chad Bowden.

Significant Turnaround in Recruiting

For many years, USC had struggled to maintain its local dominance in talent acquisition, a hallmark of its success during the Pete Carroll era. From 2002 to 2006, USC secured consecutive No. 1 recruiting classes by prioritizing local prospects. However, the team faced challenges in the following decade, as rivals like Ohio State and Oregon began to recruit aggressively in Southern California.

Riley’s early focus on a broader national approach did not yield the desired results, prompting a return to local recruiting strategies in his fourth season.

Key Achievements in 2023

• USC’s 2023 recruiting class is ranked first in the nation.
• This is the first time since 2008 that a school outside the Southeastern Conference has achieved this ranking.
• The Trojans signed 35 recruits, 20 of whom are from California.
• Seven of California’s top 25 high school prospects chose USC.

Notably, eight recruits hail from the prestigious Trinity League, with significant contributions from Santa Ana Mater Dei High School, which historically has been a pipeline for USC talent.

Local Prospects Make a Mark

This year, USC signed several standout players from local high schools. Key additions include:

• Mark Bowman – Top tight end
• Tomuhini Topui – Four-star defensive lineman
• Shaun Scott – Four-star linebacker
• Kayden Dixon-Wyatt – Elite wide receiver who switched from Ohio State to USC on signing day

The revival of relationships with local schools has played a crucial role in this turnaround. Bowden’s commitment to consistent communication with local high school coaches and programs contributed to redevelopment of trust, which had weakened over the past few years.

Strategic Focus on Both Sides of the Line

Half of this year’s recruits specialize in offensive or defensive linemen. Among them, Keenyi Pepe stands out as the highest-ranked offensive lineman the Trojans have recruited since 2017.

This renewed focus on strengthening both lines underscores the commitment to building a well-rounded team capable of competing for national championships. Importantly, USC’s ability to offer financial support through name, image, and likeness (NIL) deals has further enhanced its recruiting capabilities.

Looking Ahead

With the top recruiting class in 2023 secured, USC enters the future with renewed optimism. The groundwork laid by Riley and Bowden suggests that 2026 might herald an era of returning dominance akin to the Pete Carroll years.

This recruiting success not only provides a promising roster for upcoming seasons but also signifies a full-circle moment for USC football in reclaiming its traditional strength in the Southland. The focus now shifts to developing this talent and translating it into on-field success.