USC Trojans head coach Lincoln Riley is facing a critical battle to retain four-star defensive back Shamar Arnoux, who may be considering a flip to Miami. Arnoux, a key USC commit from Carrollton High School in Georgia, has remained steadfast in his commitment despite the Trojans’ underwhelming 4-4 record in their first Big Ten season. However, after a recent visit to Miami, the Hurricanes have turned up the heat.
Arnoux, the No. 374 overall prospect in the 2024 class, visited Miami for their 36-14 victory over Florida State, where he praised coach Mario Cristobal and the staff. Arnoux said, “Coach Cristobal is definitely a players’ coach, and coach Jackson is no B.S., teaching NFL-level techniques.” Miami, currently 8-0 and poised for a potential College Football Playoff berth, has become an attractive option for many recruits.
Despite this, Arnoux maintains that he’s still committed to USC. “I am still committed to USC but weighing all my options,” Arnoux told On3’s Chad Simmons. With National Signing Day approaching on December 4, the Trojans will need to fend off programs like Miami to hold onto key recruits like Arnoux and his high-profile teammate, five-star quarterback Julian Lewis.
As USC’s on-field struggles continue, retaining top recruits such as Arnoux and Lewis will be crucial in building towards future success under Riley’s leadership.