USC's recruiting prowess continues to shine under Head Coach Lincoln Riley, as they build on their top-ranked 2026 class with impressive additions for 2027. Riley's team, spearheaded by inside receiver and tight ends coach Chad Savage, is already making waves, securing a No. 13 ranking for their upcoming class according to 247Sports.
Savage, now the pass game coordinator, has been instrumental in this success. His mentorship of junior wide receiver Makai Lemon, who clinched the 2025 Biletnikoff Award, underscores his growing reputation as a top assistant coach. Now, alongside Riley, Savage is shaping the Trojans' offense while playing a key role in recruiting both defensive and offensive talents.
On the defensive front, the arrival of former TCU head coach Gary Patterson as defensive coordinator marks a significant shift. Patterson, a Hall of Fame coach, has joined forces with Savage to enhance USC's defense, focusing on bringing in speed and talent for the future.
A standout recruit, Honor Fa’alave-Johnson, has committed to USC, choosing to stay in Southern California despite interest from powerhouse programs like Alabama and Ohio State. Ranked as ESPN’s No. 19 player and the top safety, Fa’alave-Johnson brings exceptional speed, clocking in at 22.7 mph during a touchdown run. His versatility as a safety and running back echoes the dual-threat abilities of past stars like Marcus Allen.
Fa’alave-Johnson's high school stats are eye-popping: 120 tackles, five interceptions, and 19 defended passes on defense, alongside 2,388 rushing yards and 44 total touchdowns on offense. The decision on whether he will play both sides at USC remains, but his speed and talent have already set him apart.
The Trojans aren't stopping with Fa’alave-Johnson. They've also secured commitments from top wide receiver prospects Quentin Hale and Eli Woodard.
Hale, a four-star recruit from Centennial High School, boasts over 2,000 receiving yards and 27 touchdowns, choosing USC over offers from Oregon and Ohio State. Woodard, from Chaparral High School, follows suit with 24 touchdowns and over 1,600 yards.
On the defensive side, Aaryn Washington, a four-star cornerback, was the first 2027 commit. Despite a junior year injury, his three interceptions in just two games highlight his potential. Transferring to IMG Academy, Washington aims to strengthen USC's defense alongside Fa’alave-Johnson.
With Riley and his staff at the helm, USC is crafting another formidable recruiting class, setting the stage for continued success and excitement in the seasons to come.