As college football teams prepare for a crucial Saturday, the recruiting landscape intensifies with only thirty-two days remaining before the early signing period for the 2026 class, scheduled from December 3 to 5. This final month is critical for uncommitted prospects and those considering flips, as top programs like Auburn, Ohio State, and Tennessee host significant visitor weekends.
Vanderbilt University is aiming to sway five-star quarterback commit Jared Curtis from the University of Georgia, where he remains a top prospect. Curtis, the No. 2 overall quarterback, recently visited Vanderbilt, and the Commodores are expected to maintain contact with him throughout the month, highlighting the opportunity to remain close to home as the potential successor to Diego Pavia.
While Vanderbilt is making a strong push, sources suggest that Curtis’ commitment to Georgia is still solid. After briefly decommitting from the Bulldogs last year, he reaffirmed his commitment in May and intends to sign with Georgia in December. One source stated, “It would be pretty shocking to me if he landed anywhere else,” indicating a strong belief in Curtis’ decision to stay with the Bulldogs. His confidence in Georgia’s program, particularly in terms of personal development and championship potential, reinforces this sentiment.
The quarterback market is stabilizing, with most Power 4 programs securing commitments. However, several intriguing prospects remain, including four-star Tradon Bessinger, who recently decommitted from Boise State. Bessinger has garnered interest from BYU, Iowa, and UCLA, and he plans to visit BYU on November 15. His decision-making process may extend into February, as he aims to assess the coaching landscape with clarity.
Another notable uncommitted quarterback is Troy Huhn, previously of Penn State, who is evaluating options amid ongoing coaching changes. Huhn’s recruitment is in flux, with his father stating, “It’s really day-to-day,” reflecting the uncertainty affecting many top prospects as coaching situations evolve.
In a broader context, Lamar Brown, the No. 1 overall prospect and a defensive tackle from Erwinville, Louisiana, is under scrutiny following the recent firing of LSU coach Brian Kelly. Brown’s future at LSU appears stable for now, with sources indicating that he is likely to remain committed. His decision is pivotal for the Tigers’ 2026 recruiting class, which predominantly consists of in-state talent. As Brown considers his options, he faces interest from Texas A&M and Miami, although he is expected to stay with LSU.
In the running back market, four-star Messiah Mickens remains a key figure after reopening his recruitment following the dismissal of Penn State’s coaching staff. Mickens is eyeing potential visits to Indiana, Oklahoma, and South Carolina, while also maintaining communication with Penn State’s interim coaches. “I’m looking for a great coaching staff and a place that can develop me as a player,” he noted, emphasizing the importance of relationships in his decision.
The wide receiver market is also dynamic, with top recruits like Davion Brown and Jayden Petit generating significant interest. Brown, who recently decommitted from Penn State, is now receiving attention from Indiana, Kansas State, and Maryland. Petit, a Wisconsin commit, is also being pursued by Oklahoma, showcasing the competitive nature of this recruiting cycle.
As the month progresses, major programs are set to host key visitors. Auburn will welcome several significant targets, including four-star defensive end Anthony Jones, while Ohio State aims to strengthen its cornerback position with commitments from players like Jay Timmons. The Tennessee Volunteers are also focusing on critical visits as they finalize their recruiting class.
The landscape of college football recruiting is shifting rapidly, and as programs seek to secure commitments, the next few weeks will be pivotal for both prospects and teams alike.
