USC Trojans are on track to once again make Oregon look like little brother when it comes to the 2026 recruiting class

The USC Trojans have "little brother-ed" the Oregon Ducks several times during the 2025 offseason, like when they flipped quarterback Jonas Williams, and when they grabbed some elite recruits for the 2026 class that the Ducks were heavily pursuing. It happens to everyone, it's not just the Ducks. In fact, it has happened to USC […]

Justin Churchill College Football & NFL Trending News Writer
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USC Trojans head coach Lincoln Riley
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The USC Trojans have "little brother-ed" the Oregon Ducks several times during the 2025 offseason, like when they flipped quarterback Jonas Williams, and when they grabbed some elite recruits for the 2026 class that the Ducks were heavily pursuing.

It happens to everyone, it's not just the Ducks. In fact, it has happened to USC a ton. However, it feels like this offseason, it's all about making the Ducks look bad, and they have a chance to do that once again.

On Tuesday, former Oregon commit and four-star defensive tackle Tomuhini Topui decommitted from Oregon. The same day that happened, he was seen at the Trojans' first day of Spring Football decked out in Trojan gear. A coincidence? I think not. Flipping him could firmly put the Trojans back in first place for the 2026 recruiting rankings.

But, who us Tomuhini Topui?


USC Trojans predicted to land DT Tomuhini Topui

Tomuhini Topui is a standout high school football player from Mater Dei High School in Santa Ana, California, the best high school in the country for football, and is widely regarded as one of the top defensive linemen in the class of 2026. At 6-foot-3 and approximately 320 pounds, Topui combines exceptional size, strength, and athleticism, making him a dominant presence on the field.

During his junior year in the 2024 season, he played a key role in Mater Dei’s undefeated 13-0 run, contributing to their victories in the CIF Southern Section Division 1 championship and the CIF Open Division state title. His ability to play multiple positions along the defensive line—edge, tackle, and nose guard—allows him to disrupt opposing offenses by halting the run and pressuring quarterbacks.

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Rated a four-star recruit, Topui has received over 30 scholarship offers from elite college programs, including Georgia, USC, Michigan, and Tennessee. He initially committed to the Oregon Ducks in October 2024 following their exciting victory over Ohio State, and, as we mentioned earlier, is now decommitted.

Speculation points to USC, located just 27 miles from Mater Dei, as a frontrunner in his recruitment due to its proximity and persistent efforts. Ranked as high as the No. 1 defensive tackle in his class by ESPN and No. 15 overall by 247Sports’ composite, Topui remains a premier talent whose college choice will be closely watched.