The race for the No. 1 recruiting class in college football is always a fluid and fascinating battle, often decided by a few high-profile commitments or a late flip from one blue-blood to another. In the 2025 cycle, the USC Trojans have maintained their grip on the top spot for much of the offseason, but that might not last much longer. Texas A&M and LSU, two powerhouse programs in the SEC with deep pockets, elite coaching staffs, and surging momentum, are closing the gap quickly. With major commitments looming and both programs pushing hard on the trail, the question must be asked—could Texas A&M or LSU leapfrog USC for the No. 1 recruiting class before signing day?
At the moment, USC has built its class around explosive offensive talent, a hallmark of head coach Lincoln Riley’s recruiting philosophy. The Trojans have landed commitments from multiple five-star offensive playmakers, including a top-rated quarterback and several elite wide receivers. That’s no surprise, considering Riley’s track record in developing Heisman-caliber quarterbacks and putting up video game numbers on offense. However, while USC’s class is top-heavy with skill players, there’s a sense among recruiting analysts that their class might lack the depth and balance needed to fend off late surges from the SEC giants.
Enter Texas A&M. The Aggies are no strangers to the top of the recruiting rankings, having pulled in a historic class just a few years ago. Now under head coach Mike Elko, Texas A&M appears to have found a perfect blend of coaching stability and NIL firepower to make another serious run at the No. 1 spot. Their 2025 class is loaded with trench talent, especially on the defensive line, where the Aggies have secured commitments from several top-100 prospects. What sets this group apart is the positional balance—Elko and his staff are prioritizing not only elite pass rushers but also locking down athletic linebackers, versatile DBs, and future stars at tight end and running back.
Even more importantly, Texas A&M is in the mix for multiple five-star prospects who remain uncommitted. If the Aggies close strong, particularly with a few out-of-state stars they’ve been aggressively pursuing, they could vault past USC on the final day of the cycle. The buzz around College Station is growing louder, and the Aggies’ recent recruiting wins—both in Texas and nationally—have sent a clear message: they’re not backing down. If they land just two or three more elite pieces, especially along the offensive line or in the secondary, Texas A&M’s class could easily match or exceed USC’s in terms of both quantity and quality.
Then there’s LSU, a program that has quietly and efficiently built one of the most complete recruiting classes in the country. Head coach Brian Kelly and his staff have been methodical in their approach, targeting not just the obvious five-star players but also winning critical battles for top-150 prospects in areas where LSU traditionally thrives—Louisiana, Texas, and the Southeast. The Tigers’ class is deep and well-rounded, with major defensive pieces already on board and a strong chance to close with additional blue-chip defenders.
One of the major storylines to watch involves LSU’s pursuit of the nation’s top uncommitted defensive back and a highly coveted defensive end who could swing the balance in LSU’s favor. Add to that the possibility of flipping a top recruit from a rival program—something LSU has done more than once in the Kelly era—and you begin to see the roadmap to the No. 1 class. LSU has also benefited from strong performances in camps and showcases, where many of their committed players have earned major stock upgrades, pushing the overall ranking of the class upward.
Recruiting isn’t just about rankings—it’s about fit, development, and long-term production—but there’s no denying the prestige and momentum that come with claiming the No. 1 overall class. For Texas A&M and LSU, this isn’t just about bragging rights; it’s about reshaping the future of their programs in a landscape that’s more competitive than ever. With NIL, the transfer portal, and increased national competition, having the No. 1 class can create a foundation for years of sustained success.
USC isn’t out of the picture by any means. The Trojans remain in play for several elite targets, particularly on defense, and Lincoln Riley has proven time and again that he can close strong. If USC secures a couple of late additions on the defensive line or finds a way to flip a major defensive recruit from an SEC program, they could hold onto the top spot. But the margin for error is shrinking, and the Trojans will need to finish strong in an increasingly crowded field.
Texas A&M and LSU, on the other hand, are trending in the right direction at exactly the right time. Both programs have positioned themselves to take advantage of USC’s possible recruiting slowdown. The Aggies’ NIL infrastructure remains one of the most powerful in the nation, giving them an edge when battling for five-star talent. Elko’s defensive pedigree and the team’s renewed sense of energy are resonating with recruits and families alike. LSU, with its SEC pedigree and a track record of putting defensive stars into the NFL, has a compelling pitch that’s hard to ignore, especially for top-tier Southern prospects.
Another factor in play is team performance this fall. While recruiting is largely about relationships and evaluations that span years, a strong on-field showing can seal the deal for undecided recruits. If Texas A&M or LSU starts the season hot and demonstrates clear growth and competitiveness, they could sway several high-profile recruits still on the fence. Likewise, if USC stumbles early or its defense continues to struggle, it could open the door for the SEC challengers to capitalize.
It’s worth noting that both A&M and LSU have already proven they can win battles head-to-head against USC. Whether it’s flipping a West Coast prospect or landing a Texas-based player USC had targeted, the perception around these programs is shifting. For years, the narrative was that Lincoln Riley had an unstoppable recruiting machine, especially on offense. But now, with the playing field leveled by NIL and a resurgent SEC, the Trojans are facing stiff resistance.
In the final months leading up to signing day, the chessboard is set for a thrilling finish. Recruits will take their official visits, coaches will hit the road, and fanbases will hang on every crystal ball prediction and social media post. Texas A&M and LSU are surging at the perfect moment, stacking wins and gaining momentum with every visit, offer, and commitment. The No. 1 spot, once seen as USC’s to lose, is now very much up for grabs.
Ultimately, the race could come down to a handful of decisions made by some of the top high school players in the country. A five-star edge rusher choosing College Station over Los Angeles. A dynamic wide receiver opting for Baton Rouge instead of staying in California. A defensive back flipping to the SEC at the eleventh hour. These moments, though seemingly small, could swing the pendulum and determine who finishes atop the rankings.
The margin is razor-thin, and every move from now until signing day will matter. But if Texas A&M and LSU keep up their current pace, continue to hit on key targets, and avoid major decommitments, don’t be surprised if either program overtakes USC for the coveted title of No. 1 recruiting class in the nation. The Trojans might have jumped out to an early lead, but the SEC powerhouses are coming, and they’re coming fast.
