USC football is now targeting recruits from Georgia as part of its new recruitment strategy, while prominent local high schools like Mater Dei, St. John Bosco, and Oaks Christian observe the approach with interest. Head Coach Lincoln Riley has been vocal about his desire to bring in the “right guys” to build a strong, cohesive team that fits USC’s style and culture. However, Riley’s recruitment plan includes not only a focus on California talent but also a reach into high-profile programs out of state, with particular attention to the football-rich region of Georgia.
The recruitment process for USC under Riley has reflected a broader strategy to strengthen the team by acquiring a mix of local and out-of-state talent. This move into Georgia highlights Riley’s commitment to broadening USC’s national recruiting footprint. It’s a tactic aimed at strengthening the program by finding players who fit specific roles and styles that Riley believes are crucial to USC’s future success. Georgia’s high schools are known for producing top-tier football talent, rivaling powerhouse states like Texas, Florida, and California. By looking to Georgia for potential recruits, USC is attempting to bring in some of the best talent available, regardless of location.
At the same time, this recruitment strategy is seen as somewhat surprising by observers, particularly as USC has a history of drawing from its strong local talent pool, especially from schools such as Mater Dei and St. John Bosco. These schools consistently produce elite players who often go on to play in prominent college programs. Riley’s decision to expand his recruitment focus out of state, even when such high-caliber talent exists nearby, signals a shift in priorities and a desire to ensure USC builds the best team possible, no matter where that talent is found.
Some local coaches and programs are waiting to see how this approach plays out, as the reliance on out-of-state players could influence local recruitment dynamics in Southern California. As Riley’s vision unfolds, USC’s ability to balance local and national recruitment will likely affect relationships with local high schools and their pipelines of promising players.
Overall, Riley’s strategy is geared toward building a team that can compete on a national level, even if that means tapping into out-of-state talent. By focusing on finding “the right guys,” Riley aims to elevate USC’s performance, establishing a program capable of competing with the top teams in college football.
