The USC Trojans are on the verge of landing one of the top quarterback prospects in the nation, as five-star recruit Ryder Lyons is reportedly close to making his commitment—and all signs point to Southern California. Lyons, a standout in the 2026 class, has been a target for several powerhouse programs, but sources indicate that Lincoln Riley and the Trojans have surged ahead in recent weeks.
Lyons, who plays his high school football in Northern California, has been a household name on the recruiting trail since his sophomore year. He possesses a rare combination of size, arm strength, poise, and mobility that has drawn comparisons to former USC greats like Caleb Williams and Matt Leinart. Standing 6-foot-3 and weighing around 200 pounds, Lyons is a true dual-threat quarterback who has shredded defenses both through the air and on the ground.
His junior year numbers are eye-popping. Lyons threw for over 3,500 yards and 38 touchdowns with just six interceptions, while adding another 700 yards and 10 scores on the ground. His football IQ, leadership, and ability to extend plays have made him a coveted recruit for programs like Alabama, Georgia, Oregon, and Texas—but it’s USC that now holds the momentum.
Lyons has taken multiple visits to Los Angeles over the past year, and his relationship with head coach Lincoln Riley has played a huge role in the Trojans’ pursuit. Riley is known as a quarterback guru, having developed multiple Heisman winners including Kyler Murray, Baker Mayfield, and Caleb Williams. For a QB prospect like Lyons, Riley’s offensive system and track record are hard to pass up.
In interviews, Lyons has praised USC’s offensive approach, the opportunity to play early, and the overall vibe of the program. “Coach Riley has a vision, and it aligns with where I see myself going. USC is building something special,” Lyons said after a recent visit.
With USC set to join the Big Ten in 2024, the program is entering a new era—both competitively and geographically. Lyons could be the face of that transformation, bringing elite talent and national attention to a team looking to reestablish itself as a perennial title contender. His commitment would also likely attract other top-tier offensive weapons, as elite QBs often serve as the centerpiece of recruiting classes.
While Lyons has yet to make an official announcement, recruiting insiders believe a decision could come within the next few weeks, possibly even sooner. Should he choose USC, it would be a major win for the Trojans on the recruiting trail—and a statement to the rest of the college football world that USC is once again a destination for elite quarterback talent.
If Lincoln Riley does indeed land Lyons, it will mark another chapter in USC’s storied quarterback legacy—and could set the Trojans up for long-term success as they transition into the Big Ten.