It didn't take long for Lane Kiffin to get the Trojans to No. 1 in the nation.Three weeks, to be exact.
USC's new head coach, hired Jan. 12, has seemingly been on top of the world since Wednesday night, when the Trojan recruiting class was named the nation's best by Rivals.com following Signing Day 2010.
"This is beyond exciting for the program and the entire Trojan Family," Kiffin said. "The future looks extremely bright for USC."
Besides the No. 1 ranking, the Trojans' 2010 recruiting haul has a drastically higher average star rating than any other program in the country, with a mean of 4.20 stars per prospect on Rivals.com. No other school has an average over 4 stars.
USC has signed two of the top four overall prospects on Scout.com (WR Robert Woods and WR Kyle Prater), as well as two of the top six overall prospects on Rivals.com (WR Kyle Prater and WR Robert Woods).
The most impressive compilation of recruits comes in the offensive skill positions, with four five-star wideouts, three top-of-the-line tight ends, a stud quarterback, a top tailback and a No. 1 fullback.
"This is one of the best collections of skill players in one class we've ever seen anywhere," Kiffin said.
The Trojans have signed eight players in the top 3 of their positions on Rivals.com, including five players rated No. 1 at their position. A total of 13 players in the 19-member class are ranked in the top 9 in their position by Rivals.com.
"We couldn't be more excited for what came together on Signing Day," Kiffin said. "USC's back at No. 1. Things are looking very good for the future of this program."
Hey Ben, FYI, USC signed 3 of the top 5 recruits for Scout.com
Seantrel Henderson hasn't faxed his LOI in yet, so they can't comment on him yet. It's 2 for the time being
I want to also acknowledge - again -- how much we appreciate everything you do for the Trojan Family to keep us informed, up to the minute! Your coverage yesterday was outstanding; the forums were constantly referring to your work into last night. For those of us who live outside the metro L.A. area, RipsIt has been like a life line to a beloved friend.
All the best to you and the staff, CRD
Question...why is ESPN reporting that USC is #7 and Florida #1? Do they have a different rating criteria than rivals.com? If so, which is the most official? I mean, are we #1 or #7?
espn is reporting a #7 rating right now because they go off of a point system for the recruits. i.e. each recruit is worth a certain amount of points. the schools ahead of 'SC in their ranking have more total commits including a bunch of 1,2,3, star recruits which in return would give the other school more "points", and so a "higher" ranking. their rating system doesnt put in the factor of teach recruits actual talent and potential. but independent recruiting services like "rivals" and "scout" account for the prospects actual talent. so tho florida and texas have more recruits, NO ONE HAS BETTER PLAYERS COMING IN PERIOD!!!! and also remember guys that seantrel henderson isnt official yet! so when it is its gonna be over!!!