USC to host Five-Star Plus+ CB Domani Jackson, key RB, WR targets

Even though the USC Trojans are searching for a head coach, recruiters on campus are still searching for commitments to round out the 2022 class.

The Trojans have the No. 22 class in the country, according to the On3 Consensus Football Recruiting Rank. And where USC finishes up largely could be determined by key official visitors scheduled to be on campus this weekend.

With rival UCLA coming across town, the Trojans are using the opportunity to try and get back in the hunt with Five-Star Plus+ cornerback Domani Jackson of Santa Ana (Calif.) Mater Dei.

Jackson made a much-publicized decommitment from USC last week. Intel indicates Alabama, where Jackson visited earlier in the process, has taken a commanding lead in his recruitment. Michigan is also heavily involved.

This will be a critical visit for the Trojans. Jackson has a special bond with USC interim head coach Donte Williams. But there still is no guarantee he will be there once the Trojans figure out their coaching situation. This weekend’s trip could go a long way toward helping Jackson feel good about all the other things USC has to offer – including the NIL potential.

“One of the hottest topics at USC not directly related to USC’s search for a head coach is the decommitment of Jackson,” WeAreSC’s Scott Schrader wrote this week. “Fans want to know if USC still has a shot. The answer is yes. But it’s now a very tough battle against Alabama.”

“Domani does love USC, and we’re told USC still has a shot. We will know more after this weekend and likely know his school choice before the Dec. 15 signing day.”

Other key USC visits this weekend

Also scheduled to come in for official visits are On3 Consensus four-star WR Kevin Coleman out of the St. Louis area. Coleman is the No. 64 player in the country. He is also heavily considering Oregon, and there are pushes to end up out West from his family. But can the Trojans overcome the Ducks, who have been targeting Coleman throughout the entire process? The Trojans didn’t start recruiting him until Williams took over as the head coach.

Three-star running back Jaydn Ott of Norco (Calif.) High is also scheduled to take an official visit, according to Schrader. Wisconsin is also high on Ott’s list. He visited there in mid-October.

“Jaydn Ott is currently the top running back target for USC, so they’ll likely hit the transfer portal for another running back if they sign Ott,” Schrader said. “If they don’t get Ott, chances are high USC will pursue another prep back.”

Some key unofficial visitors are coming to campus, including On3 Consensus five-star offensive tackle Josh Conerly Jr. and four-star safety Zion Branch.