Story perspectives

USC Trojans Claim Top 2026 Recruiting Class, Break SEC Streak

12/4/2025

Summary

Story summary

The USC Trojans secured the No. 1 recruiting class for 2026, the first non-SEC program to lead since 2008.
Under head coach Lincoln Riley and general manager Chad Bowden, USC signed 35 players, including five-star Keenyi Pepe and four-star Kayden Dixon-Wyatt (flipped from Ohio State).
The class emphasizes in-state talent, with 57% of recruits from California.
The success signals USC's strategy to remain competitive despite potential challenges from rival programs.

History

Historical Context

The USC Trojans football program, established in 1888, rose to prominence under coach Pete Carroll from 2001 to 2009, winning seven consecutive Pac-10 championships and producing numerous NFL talents. In 2008, they signed 30 recruits, including five-star quarterback Matt Barkley. Recently, under Lincoln Riley, the 2026 recruiting class emphasizes local talent, with 57% from California, aiming to regain competitive stature against SEC programs.

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Story summary

The USC Trojans secured the No. 1 recruiting class for 2026, the first non-SEC program to lead since 2008.
Under head coach Lincoln Riley and general manager Chad Bowden, USC signed 35 players, including five-star Keenyi Pepe and four-star Kayden Dixon-Wyatt (flipped from Ohio State).
The class emphasizes in-state talent, with 57% of recruits from California.
The success signals USC's strategy to remain competitive despite potential challenges from rival programs.

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