SCOUTING THE FUTURE: USC TROJANS MAKE TIKI HOLA’S TOP 5
LOS ANGELES — Lincoln Riley and the USC Trojans are wasting no time assembling their 2026 recruiting class. This week, the staff has been highly active, focusing heavily on talent across California. Just yesterday, Riley made a significant stop to visit 5-star quarterback Ryder Lyons, a cornerstone prospect for the class.
However, while California recruiting is a clear priority, Riley and his team know that national reach is crucial—especially in Texas, a proven hotbed for elite talent. One major target from the Lone Star State, 4-star defensive lineman Tiki Hola, has the Trojans among his Top 5 schools, alongside Texas, Oregon, SMU, and Notre Dame.
TIKI HOLA’S TOP 5: USC IN THE MIX
Hola, who visited USC, Oregon, and Texas last season, revealed that he’s been in communication with the Trojans, Longhorns, and Notre Dame regarding upcoming Junior Days. Despite the USC Trojans earning a spot in his Top 5, where do they actually rank?
According to an interview with On3, his hometown team, Texas, currently holds the edge.
“I look at relationships,” Hola said. “That’s always what I’ve looked at since my freshman year, since I started my recruiting process. Not only does my relationship with my position coach—who is going to be my coach throughout my four years—matter, but also having a relationship with the head coach is big for me.
“Also, I am looking at the development that a school can give me and how I can become a better person and a better player there. The last thing is where I fit on the depth chart and how valuable I feel on the team.”
While Texas leads the race, Trojan fans have reason to remain optimistic.
WHY USC STILL HAS A SHOT
Riley’s track record of relationship-building extends beyond offensive players. One of the key reasons defensive lineman Floyd Boucard committed to USC last fall was his direct connection with Riley and the head coach’s personal involvement in the recruitment process.
When it comes to player development, Coach Henderson, USC’s defensive line coach, is regarded as one of the best in the business. His reputation for nurturing talent and fostering relationships could play a pivotal role in swaying Hola.
THE PROSPECT PROFILE
Standing at 6’2.5” and weighing 285 pounds, Tiki Hola is currently ranked as the 32nd defensive lineman in the 2026 class, per On3. He’s a high-impact player with versatility and the potential to thrive at the collegiate level.
As the Trojans continue their pursuit of Hola and other top recruits, it’s clear that Riley and his staff are determined to make USC a destination for elite talent—on both sides of the ball. Stay tuned for more updates as the 2026 recruiting class takes shape.