USC Among Finalists for Five-Star Offensive Tackle Austin Attalah
USC is one of three finalists for five-star offensive tackle Austin Attalah from Orange Lutheran High School in California. Attalah is a highly sought-after recruit in the 2027 class.
Attalah, a 6-foot-7, 290-pound lineman, is ranked as the top recruit in California and third-best at his position nationally. He has narrowed his choices twice before his junior season, with USC, Texas, and Texas Tech remaining. The Trojans offered him in March, and he has since visited campus multiple times.
USC is leveraging geographic proximity and local ties to keep him in-state, with general manager Chad Bowden and offensive line coach Zach Hanson leading the charge. The program is also pursuing other 2028 targets, including dual-threat quarterback Trey Wright, safety Ace Leutele, and offensive lineman Elisha Mueller.
The recruitment of elite local prospects like Attalah could shape the competitive balance of college football, as USC's success in retaining California talent may influence its offensive line strength for years. For the athlete, choosing between local familiarity and family ties in Texas could impact his development and exposure. Additionally, this pursuit may affect the visibility of Southern California high school programs, potentially inspiring younger players in the region.