USC's Updated Recruiting Class Ranking Signals Program's Upward Trend

The Trojans' 2027 recruiting class is currently ranked No. 5 in the nation, the second-best in the Big Ten.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 12:03am

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A cubist-style painting featuring overlapping geometric shapes and planes in USC's cardinal and gold colors, capturing the dynamic energy and potential of the Trojans' rising football program.USC's recruiting momentum under Lincoln Riley is reflected in the program's rising national ranking and the geometric energy of its future on-field talent.Los Angeles Today

The USC Trojans' 2027 recruiting class is off to a strong start, currently ranked No. 5 in the nation and second-best in the Big Ten according to Rivals. The class has already received commitments from 10 recruits, including several four-star and three-star prospects. This continues an upward trend for USC's recruiting under head coach Lincoln Riley, who has landed the program's top-ranked classes in 2026 and 2025 after some down years.

Why it matters

USC's improved recruiting under Riley signals a turnaround for the program after a few seasons of underperformance. The Trojans' 2026 class was ranked No. 1 nationally, a major step up from the previous two years. This latest 2027 class ranking shows the momentum continuing, which will be crucial for USC to take the next step and make its first-ever College Football Playoff appearance in 2026.

The details

USC's 2027 class is currently ranked No. 5 nationally by Rivals, trailing only Ohio State among Big Ten programs. The class has already received 10 commitments, including four-star recruits at wide receiver, offensive tackle, cornerback, and other positions. This follows USC landing the No. 1 ranked class in 2026, which included four five-star prospects. The Trojans' recruiting had dipped in the two years prior, but has trended upward under Riley, who is entering his fifth season as head coach.

  • USC's 2026 recruiting class was ranked No. 1 nationally.
  • USC's 2025 recruiting class was ranked No. 15 nationally.
  • USC's 2024 recruiting class was ranked No. 18 nationally.

The players

Lincoln Riley

The head coach of the USC Trojans, who has led the program's recruiting resurgence over the past few seasons.

Jayden Maiava

USC's starting quarterback, who is returning for another season in 2026.

Gary Patterson

The new defensive coordinator for USC, who is known for his long tenure as head coach of the TCU Horned Frogs.

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What’s next

As the 2026 season approaches, there is an expectation for USC to take another step forward and make it to the College Football Playoff for the first time in program history.

The takeaway

USC's improved recruiting under Lincoln Riley, culminating in the No. 5 ranked 2027 class, signals a resurgence for the Trojans program. With a veteran quarterback returning and a new defensive coordinator brought in, USC appears poised to make a push for its first-ever College Football Playoff berth in 2026.