In college football, the recruiting never stops! What also doesn’t stop is your rivals trying to steal your targets. Ohio State is at the top of the world right now. Defending champions. Sitting at No. 1 in the AP Top 25, even when they had a bye week. But one of their Big Ten opponents was out there on the field and on the recruiting front.

The USC Trojans’ recruiting game has seen quite a transition under Lincoln Riley. After several mediocre returns, it’s promising to pick up. They are currently at the top when it comes to the 2026 class, and they are showing the same zeal for future classes. Over the weekend, three key 2027 recruits visited Los Angeles. One of them was Columbus (Ohio) Academy Rivals300 edge rusher Reinaldo Perez. According to On3’s recruiting machinery, the Buckeyes have a 97.9% chance to land Perez. He is ranked No. 26 as an edge and No. 5 in the State of Ohio.

But the 4-star athlete had nothing but positive things to say about the USC visit. “For it being my first time in LA, it was definitely an experience, to say the least,” the 6’5″, 240-pound athlete told On3’s Steve Wiltfong. “From the Stadium, to the game to even the campus, it had a great vibe to it. Overall, I really enjoyed my time there with Coach (DL Eric Henderson) Henny, and I most definitely hope to be back soon!” he added.

When the Trojans picked up their 4th win of the season by defeating Michigan State, Perez and his family were out there in the stands to witness it all. “I have a deeper feel for the school itself,” he said. He looks forward to spending a lot of time with the coaching staff, but he will take his time to consider all of his options.

Riley hauled in LB coach Rob Ryan (NFL pedigree) and GM Chad Bowen to improve their recruiting. In addition to that, USC’s commitment to improving the facilities for its student athletes might also be an element attracting potential targets.

Michigan State Spartans vying to secure Reinaldo Perez

Reinaldo Perez has been in contact with the Spartans’ coaching staff for a while now and has developed strong relationships with them over time. “Like I said, I’d been in contact with Coach (DL Lawrence Suiaunoa) Legi, as well as Coach (Jonathan) Smith. And Coach (safeties coach James Adams) Adams, for a while,” he said in an interview with Sports Illustrated.

Three things stood out for the Columbus native at Jonathon Smith’s program. The effort poured into recruiting him, and the program offers a lot in terms of academics and athletics. “I’ve been in contact with Michigan State for a long time, and I’ve developed a strong relationship with Coach Legi and the rest of the staff. I will be back there soon and can’t wait to continue this relationship with them,” he added.

Arizona State Devils is another program keen to secure Perez’s commitment pledge. “I enjoy hearing from them. And I hope I’m able to come out soon,” the Class of 2027 edge rusher said.

Although Reinaldo Perez hasn’t shortlisted programs out of the 20+ offers he has received. But he knows how to sift through. “I wouldn’t say I have a list that stands out to me. Because a lot of the schools that have offered me have shown a lot of love and interest.” He continued. “Therefore, with what they provide on all aspects, I reciprocate that back. Because I think all of them have a lot to offer.”