The world of recruiting can lead to a lot of overreactions, but we don’t think this is one of them: USC needs more five-star offensive linemen.
The Trojans don’t need five-star players everywhere on the field. They just lost five-star players from the secondary (Domani Jackson) and at quarterback (Malachi Nelson), but those players did not pan out. Crucially, though, quarterbacks can be replaced in the portal. Elite receivers and running backs can also be replaced in the portal. Not all position groups have the same needs.
If there’s one position group where recruiting and internal development should be better than the transfer portal as the main source of talent, it’s on the offensive line. Teams need an offensive line with continuity. Players need to come up within a program, learn together, and develop together. Rentals in the portal for offensive linemen aren’t guaranteed to create a comfortable, seamless offensive line. USC found this out in 2023. The portal pickups for the Trojans didn’t mesh. They will need their in-house offensive linemen to thrive as a group in 2024.
If USC is going to become elite under Lincoln Riley, Josh Henson needs to land — and then develop — top recruits on the offensive line.
Star ratings for players can be overrated and overvalued. Offensive line, however, is an exception.
USC will need this position to deliver a significant upgrade in talent. Portal magic can’t — and shouldn’t — be expected in this segment of the roster.
Visit our friends at Fighting Irish Wire, Buffaloes Wire, and Ducks Wire.