USC Assistant Drops True Feelings on Recruiting Ranking
USC fans are loving where the Trojans sit in the 2026 national recruiting rankings. They've watched Lincoln Riley and his coaching staff grow more assertive on the trail and pull off epic moves.
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But how does one top Riley assistant really feel about holding down the No. 1 spot?
Defensive coordinator D'Anton Lynn broke his silence on USC's top overall recruiting ranking during his appearance with the Mason & Ireland show on ESPN L.A. radio. Sixteen of the 30 verbal commits hail on defense -- giving Lynn future talent to work with. That includes prized four-star linebacker Talanoa Ili.
But is Lynn himself basking in the glory of taking No. 1 in the class rankings? Or even getting caught up in the praise?
Southern California Trojans head coach Lincoln RileyGary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
"I know that everyone is advertising this as the No. 1 recruiting class in the country. I don't really get caught up in where we are ranked," Lynn told both radio hosts.
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He elaborated on what he really seeks each season on the recruiting trail.
"I just want the right kids, obviously from what they can do on the field but then who they are off the field," said Lynn.
He credited one newcomer for helping fuel these strong recruiting results, though.
"I feel like with the new general manager Chad [Bowden] and the scouting department being aligned with the coaching staff, we've been able to go after not just talent but going after the right type of kids that we want in this program," Lynn said. "You look at every single kid in that class, these are all kids you are super excited to coach. This is why you come to SC; to coach kids like the kids in [this] class."
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Ili isn't the only intriguing commit for '26. Simonte Katoanga is coming to bolster the edge rush room. Jaimeon Winfield and Tomuhini Topui form an intriguing, imposing interior defensive line duo for the future.
Madden Riordan is one more prized commit. He's expected to man nickel safety when he arrives to the Land of Troy.
Related: USC Legend Amon-Ra St. Brown Takes Rare Jab at Chiefs, Kansas City
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jun 25, 2025, where it first appeared.
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