Recruiting Fact or Fiction: Oregon's Power, DJ Sanders to Baylor, LSU's Defense

Originally posted on Mike Farrell Sports
By Mike Farrell | Last updated 5/6/24

In today’s Fact or Fiction — Recruiting Edition — I look at three big recent topics from the recruiting trail and decide whether the statement is indeed FACT or if it’s FICTION.

1. Oregon is a national recruiting power.

Farrell’s take: FACT

Oregon only has six commits for 2025, but they are a major player for a ton of huge names, and the steal of LB Nasir Wyatt from Mater Dei in Cali is another sign that Dan Lanning hits more than he misses. His last two classes are in the top 10 (top five in 2024,) and he’s killing it in the portal, too. Oregon isn’t close to a national title just yet but if they keep recruiting this way, they will be a major title contender before too long.

2. Baylor can pull an upset for DT DJ Sanders.

Farrell’s take: FICTION

The Belleville star has a good relationship with head coach Dave Aranda and has family ties to the Bears, but there’s one problem. Can Baylor win, and can Aranda keep his job? With programs like Texas, Texas A&M, and Michigan all in the mix with either new coaches or secure coaches, a big year for Aranda is needed. And it’s hard to see that coming. I think he stays in-state, but most likely, it will be Texas.

3. LSU is doing what’s needed on defense.

Farrell’s take: FICTION

LSU has a top-five class for 2025, and some have it No. 1, but it’s lacking on defense and especially on the DL. Cornerback Jaboree Antoine is highly regarded, while LBs Keylan Moses and Charles Ross are also very good, but only 3 of the 12 commits so far are on the side of the ball that killed them last season. And some gaps have not been addressed in the portal either. Brian Kelly needs to step it up in order to lure top defenders to Baton Rouge and add impact and depth.

This article first appeared on Mike Farrell Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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