TLDR: The USC Trojans experienced a setback as their three-star running back recruit, Duane Morris, switched his commitment to the Tennessee Volunteers. Hailing from Murfreesboro, Tennessee, Morris decided to play closer to home. With the early signing period on the horizon, distance became a significant concern for recruits contemplating a move across the country. Morris’s multiple visits to Tennessee indicated a shift in loyalty, despite not attending a USC game in person. In an interview with On3’s Chad Simmons, Morris expressed the pride of playing for a state team and acknowledged that Tennessee had been appealing for a while. Morris visited Knoxville during the Volunteers’ victory over Kentucky, cementing his decision to switch commitment. USC coach Lincoln Riley’s recruitment capabilities still remain strong despite the loss, maintaining the Trojans’ reputation as an offensive powerhouse. While this loss is notable, there are still 21 recruits committed to USC for the 2025 cycle, with surprises expected during the National Signing Day starting Dec. 4. Additionally, USC experienced another recruit flip as Ty Jackson chose Florida over USC, leading to a drop in their recruitment ranking to No. 14 nationally.

The USC Trojans have suffered another setback in their recruitment efforts as Duane Morris, a promising three-star running back, has opted to change his allegiance to the University of Tennessee Volunteers. Morris, a native of Murfreesboro, Tennessee, made the decision to remain closer to home, highlighting concerns over the increasing distance for recruits moving across the country. With key signing dates approaching in early December, such shifts in loyalty become increasingly common, especially when prospective recruits reconsider the geographic distance to Southern California.

Morris’s decision to commit to Tennessee became evident following his visits to the university, without attending any USC games in person. This pointed to a growing inclination towards Tennessee, which was confirmed when Morris spoke with On3’s Chad Simmons. As Morris explained, playing for his home state team offers a distinct honor, and Tennessee has long been an appealing choice for him. His visit to Knoxville during Tennessee’s victory over Kentucky bolstered his decision to commit to the Volunteers, solidifying his choice to remains in state.

In a statement to On3, Morris described the genuine connections he felt with the people and the warm reception he received from fans during his visit to Tennessee. These factors were significant contributors to his decision, which had been forming over recent weeks. During his official visit on November 23, this sense of belonging was evident not just to Morris, but his family as well, further icing their decision to embrace the opportunity at Tennessee.

USC’s recruitment battles continue under coach Lincoln Riley’s leadership, who, despite the loss of Morris, aims to maintain the Trojans’ status as a competitive powerhouse known for attracting top-tier recruits, especially in offensive skill positions. The impact of Morris’s decision is felt, but Riley’s track record in developing well-rounded talent is likely to sustain USC’s draw for prospective players. His loss, while significant, will not deter the Trojans from their recruitment goals.

Despite the loss of Morris, as well as a recent flip by linebacker Ty Jackson to Florida, USC’s 2025 recruiting class remains robust, retaining its rank as the 14th best in the nation. With 21 recruits already committed, the early signing period set to begin on December 4 brings the potential for more shifts in commitment. As National Signing Day approaches, the recruitment season remains a dynamic and unpredictable arena for the Trojans, though their outlook continues to be optimistic thanks to a solid foundation of talent.