In a significant turn of events, USC head coach Lincoln Riley secured his 14th commitment for the 2025 class from Tanook Hines, a wide receiver hailing from Houston, Texas. Hines’s decision came after he recently visited Notre Dame and his home state schools, Baylor and Texas. After his sophomore season, a little over a year ago, Hines received offers from more than 42 schools, including recent ones from Georgia and Ole Miss. In the end, many believed the competition for his commitment seemed to be primarily between Notre Dame and USC.
USC’s victory in securing Hines’s commitment is notable, considering that many anticipated a commitment from Lucas, Texas wide receiver Daylan McCutcheon the day before. However, McCutcheon ultimately chose Florida State over USC, Ohio State, and Texas.
Physically, Hines and McCutcheon share similarities, but Hines stands slightly taller at 6-foot-1 and weighs about ten pounds more at 185 pounds. Both players are known for their exceptional route running and their ability to play bigger than their size on the field.
What truly sets Hines apart is his versatility, with some believing he could excel on either side of the ball – as a receiver or a cornerback. This versatility demonstrates that Hines is not solely reliant on his elite track talent; he possesses the agility and ball skills necessary to excel on the football field as well.
Hines is the third four star wide receiver to commit to USC according to the 247Sports Composite, joining St. Louis’ Corey Simms and Baltimore’s Romero Ison.
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