The USC Trojans quietly made a statement in the transfer portal this offseason, landing two players ranked in the top 10 of On3’s Big Ten Transfer Portal Commitments rankings — tying for the most among all conference programs.
In a fresh breakdown from USC LAFB (hosted by Ryan Dyrud), the focus turns to the latest On3 rankings, where USC’s targeted additions stand out despite the Trojans’ overall transfer class ranking in the mid-40s to mid-50s nationally.
With a deliberately small haul of under 10 players, the emphasis has been quality over quantity — a strategic approach that Dyrud praises as smart roster management under Lincoln Riley.
The Top-10 Standouts
USC Trojans snagged two elite pieces in the Big Ten-centric list:
- No. 3 overall: Cornerback Jontez Williams (from Iowa State)
- The No. 1-ranked corner in the portal brings experience and the potential to step in as USC’s immediate CB1 under Gary Patterson’s scheme. Despite some health questions that may limit spring reps, he’s expected to be fully locked in by fall camp, providing veteran stability and playmaking in the secondary.
- No. 9 overall: Wide receiver Terrell Anderson (from NC State)
- A seasoned ACC veteran who adds much-needed experience to a young receiver room featuring talents like TAnook Hines and emerging freshmen. Anderson’s presence is viewed as an anchor — someone who can produce now while mentoring the next wave.
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These two top-10 lands give the USC Trojans the edge in high-end portal talent within the conference, even as other Big Ten programs like Oregon, Penn State, Indiana, and Michigan scooped up notable names (e.g., QB Dylan Riola to Oregon, QB Josh Hoover to Indiana, edge John Henry Daily to Michigan).
The Rest Of USC Trojans Strategic Haul
Beyond the headliners, the USC Trojans added depth pieces that fit Patterson’s preferred 4-2-5 look:
- Defensive tackle Alex VanSumeren (from Michigan State) — a productive run-stuffer expected to bolster the interior line.
- Linebacker Deven Bryant (from Washington) — brings physicality to help spell starters like Jadyn Walker and Desman Stephens in the second level.
Dyrud acknowledges fan frustration over the class size and missed opportunities on some bigger names (like receiver Nick Marsh heading to Indiana), but he counters that USC’s philosophy this cycle was targeted upgrades rather than a massive overhaul. With a strong returning core and faith in the current roster, the additions are seen as meaningful pieces to elevate the unit without overhauling it.
Why It Matters In The Big Ten Era
In a conference where portal movement often follows coaching changes, USC’s ability to land two top-10 talents without chasing every headline name shows discipline. The Trojans aren’t trying to match volume-heavy classes — they’re building around proven pieces and high-upside vets to compete immediately.
As spring ball approaches, these transfers could quickly become difference-makers: Williams locking down one side of the defense, Anderson stretching the field and steadying the receiving corps.
For full breakdowns of the On3 rankings, player fits, and why Dyrud is bullish on this approach, check out the original USC LAFB video. The portal window may be closed, but the impact is just beginning.