USC Trojans 2018 Recruiting Class: Offensive Recap

The USC Trojans wrapped up their 2018 recruiting class with style earlier this month, sealing the commits from blue-chip prospects on National Signing Day. These players joined an already stacked Trojans class, finishing first in the PAC-12 and fourth in the nation according to 247Sports rankings. Let’s take a look at the future of the Trojans offense.

WR Amon-Ra St. Brown 5’11.5, 191, 5* (#11)

Senior Stats: 64 receptions, 1183 yards, 18 touchdowns

Brown signs as the highest rated player in SC’s class, ranked second at his position and 11th overall in the nation. Out of Anaheim, CA, Brown is known for his physicality and route-running ability with quick bursts of speed. With the departure of WR Deontay Burnett, he should be competing for kickoff and punt return duties, as well as consistent snaps at wide receiver.

QB JT Daniels 6’2, 205, 5* (#16)

Senior Stats: 262/365 (71%), 4123 yards, 52 touchdowns

The pro-style quarterback from Santa Ana, CA signs as the 16th overall prospect in the nation. While Daniels has yet to fill out, he can still compete for significant playing time as Sam Darnold departs for the NFL. His intangibles and passion for the game continue to set him apart, expect to hear Daniels’ name in the upcoming season.

WR Devon Williams 6’4, 200, 4* (#40)

Senior Stats: 72 receptions, 1164 yards, 13 touchdowns

Although Williams is listed as a receiver, he played all over the field defensively in high school. That’s something to watch as his Trojan career develops. Williams was considered an Oregon lean during his recruitment process, but the Lancaster, CA native chose to stay in Cali for college. His size should give the Trojans a significant advantage in the redzone.

ATH Talanoa Hufanga 6’0, 193 4* (#88)

Senior Stats: N/A

While Hufanga is listed as an athlete, he will most likely play defense with the Trojans. But, there are too many defensive players in this class, we needed to balance out these articles. So he’ll stick here. He’s a lean to play safety but could see time on both sides of the ball. The Corvallis, OR native is someone to keep an eye on as this season approaches due to his rare size, speed, and physicality.

OC Justin Dedich 6’2, 290, 4* (#110)

Senior Stats: N/A

Out of Temecula, CA, Dedich is a solid Army All-American player. He ranks second nationally in his position and top 15 overall prospect in the state of California. With a young Trojan offensive line, Dedich has the opportunity to earn immediate playing time.

RB Markese Stepp 6’0, 228 4* (#307)

Senior Stats: 155 rushes, 1300 yards, 17 touchdowns

At almost 230 pounds, Stepp is an absolute bruiser of a back. From Indianapolis, IN he sits top 35 for running backs in the nation. With the departure of Ronald Jones II to the NFL and Stephen Carr’s recent injury, Stepp has a chance to fill the starting role for the Trojans sometime this upcoming season.

OT Liam Douglass 6’5, 273 3* (#506)

Senior Stats: N/A

The Studio City, CA native ranks in the Top 50 tackles in the country. He towers over people at 6’5, but he’ll need to fill out (273 lbs currently) before he sees significant PAC-12 action. If he can gain weight and develop great footwork, he has the potential to be an All-American tackle for the Trojans in a couple years.

All these players possess legit All-American aspirations, something only few recruiting classes can say. I for one am excited to see how they’re utilized in this upcoming season and years to come.

Fight On!