Recruiting never sleeps. The 2025 cycle just wrapped up, but the hunt for 2026 talent is already taking shape. USC landed a top-15 class in December, but it wasn’t all smooth sailing. The Trojans lost 5-star receiver Jerome Myles to Texas A&M and 4-star LB Jadon Perlotte flipped elsewhere. Now, Lincoln Riley has his sights set on a new prize — a four-star Tennessee commit. And Josh Heupel? He’s wide awake.

However, the 4-star WR Tyreek King, made his choice on Halloween night, committing to Josh Heupel and the Vols over powerhouses like Alabama, LSU, and FSU. But in the world of recruiting, no commitment is ever truly safe. Now, Lincoln Riley is making his move. USC has officially entered the race, and the battle for King is on. As On3’s Chad Simmons put it, “4-star WR committed to Tennessee adds USC offer.” Even King himself took to X, posting, “Blessed to receive an offer from the University of Southern California ⚪️🟡.” Dear Tennessee fans, it might be a good time to worry.

You know that King is steadily climbing the ladder of success. Rivals just crowned him the No. 1 slot receiver in the nation — a massive honor for the young star. He’s also the No. 2 prospect in Tennessee for his class. Per 247 Sports, he’s a four-star playmaker and the No. 12 WR overall. Simply put, he’s elite. Losing a talent like this would be a major blow to any program. And for Tennessee? It would sting even more. King is already the Vols’ fifth commit in the 2026 class. But now, they’ll have to fight to keep him.

See, where Heupel locks down his backyard, Riley hunts anywhere. Just ask Husan Longstreet. The five-star QB was set for Texas A&M — until Riley made his move. By November 2024, he was all in on USC. Another recruiting masterclass. Now, Tyreek King is in the crosshairs. A top-ranked playmaker and a Tennessee commit. But if Riley wants him, history says he’s got a shot.

However, in today’s game, being a head coach is more than just dialing up touchdowns. That is why CFB insiders say Riley needs to take a page from Ryan Day’s playbook. Last year, Day handed the keys to Chip Kelly, stepped back, and let Ohio State roll. The result? A national title. Meanwhile, Riley refuses to let go. No OC. No delegation. Just him running the show. But if he doesn’t adapt, it could cost him. Because in CFB, control is great — but championships are better.

Right now, Lincoln Riley’s biggest move should be hiring an OC. But instead, he’s betting on himself — and his new QB, DJ Lagway. Can this duo take USC to the CFP? Only time will tell. But when it comes to flipping Tyreek King, the Trojans aren’t the only sharks in the water. An ACC powerhouse is lurking, ready to make a move. So, now this battle isn’t just USC vs. Tennessee anymore, it’s a full-blown recruiting war.

Besides Lincoln Riley, who else is eyeing Tyreek King?

Tyreek King is an expert at creating plays. He destroyed defenses in his sophomore season with 63 receptions, 1,060 yards, and 12 TDs. With 1,062 yards, 14 TDs, and 49 receptions as a junior, he was even more lethal. Furthermore, he is more than just an offensive tool. In addition to being a defensive back, he locks down receivers. Given that performance, now Florida State is taking action.

We all know, FSU’s 2026 recruiting class is ranked in the top 10. Both Efrem White and Darryon Williams, two 4-star recruits, have already committed and will play wide receiver. And now, King is the target of their pursuit. This trip to Tallahassee? It’s a big one. King has never stepped foot on campus before. But if the Seminoles impress, they could shake up his entire recruitment.

But hold on, King felt the love in Knoxville. He visited for Tennessee’s games against Kent State and Alabama, and the vibe was electric. So much so that he made it loud and clear, posting, “WE STAYING HOME !!!🍊🍊🍊 #GBO.” His commitment gave the Vols another elite weapon alongside five-star QB Faizon Brandon. But now, USC wants in. Lincoln Riley sees King as a key piece for his 2026 dynasty. And if history tells us anything, he won’t back down without a fight.

Now, let’s see who wins this recruiting chess match — Josh Heupel, the hometown hero, or Lincoln Riley, the master recruiter. Although both want Tyreek King and both have a vision, only one will land the game-changing playmaker.