5-Star Havon Finney Jr. of California contrasts the LSU Tigers and USC Trojans
5-Star California Recruit Havon Finney Jr. Compares USC Trojans, LSU Tigers
As the 2025 recruiting cycle heats up, all eyes are on the top high school prospects who will shape the future of college football. Among the most coveted recruits is Havon Finney Jr., a 5-star linebacker from California, who has the potential to be an immediate game-changer for whichever program he decides to join. Finney, who is ranked among the top players in the nation, has drawn significant attention from college football powerhouses like the USC Trojans and the LSU Tigers. These two programs have not only built rich histories but have continued to push the envelope on the recruiting trail under their respective coaches, Lincoln Riley at USC and Brian Kelly at LSU.
As Finney narrows down his options, he recently shared his thoughts on the two programs, providing insight into what he values most in his college experience and what factors will ultimately influence his decision. His decision is expected to have major ramifications, not only for his future but also for the trajectory of both USC and LSU football. In this article, we will break down Finney’s comparison between these two programs, explore his recruitment process, and analyze how his decision could affect the landscape of college football.
Havon Finney Jr.’s Journey to the Spotlight
Before diving into the comparison between USC and LSU, it’s important to understand why Havon Finney Jr. is such a highly sought-after recruit. The linebacker from Long Beach, California has been an absolute standout on the field. Standing at 6’3” and 220 pounds, Finney combines size with athleticism, making him a versatile defender capable of impacting the game in multiple ways. His ability to read offenses, close in on quarterbacks, and shut down the run game has earned him rave reviews from coaches, analysts, and scouts alike.
Finney’s high school career has been filled with accolades and awards, as he has consistently been one of the top performers in California’s competitive high school football landscape. His combination of size, speed, and instincts has led to comparisons with some of the most successful linebackers in recent years. With a relentless motor and a high football IQ, Finney is viewed as a player who can contribute to a college program immediately, with the potential to develop into a future star in the NFL.
Now, as he heads into his senior year of high school, Finney has narrowed his choices down to two prestigious programs: USC and LSU. These two programs have a rich history, a national following, and a track record of developing elite talent, especially on defense. But what are the factors that will influence his decision? To understand Finney’s perspective, we must look at how he views these two powerhouse programs.
USC Trojans: The Appeal of the West Coast Powerhouse
The USC Trojans have long been a staple of college football excellence, and under the leadership of head coach Lincoln Riley, the program has undergone a revitalization that makes them one of the most exciting teams in the nation. Riley, who arrived at USC after a successful stint at Oklahoma, has brought with him an offensive-minded philosophy that has already shown its effectiveness in the short time he has been at USC.
However, it’s not just the offensive prowess of the Trojans that attracts elite recruits like Finney; the program’s rich history of developing standout players, especially on the defensive side of the ball, is a huge draw. USC has produced numerous NFL-caliber linebackers and defensive stars over the years, making it an attractive option for Finney.
Finney has shared in interviews that one of the key factors that draws him to USC is its location. Being a California native, staying in-state with the Trojans would allow him to play close to home, giving his family and friends the chance to watch him play regularly. The Los Angeles market is one of the most lucrative in the country, and the potential for exposure both on and off the field is something that resonates with top prospects like Finney.
But it’s not just the location that attracts Finney. USC’s commitment to building a defense that can compete at the highest level is something that stands out. **Defensive coordinator Alex Grinch, who followed Riley from Oklahoma, is known for his aggressive, high-pressure defense, and Finney sees himself as a perfect fit for that system. Grinch has a proven track record of developing players who can play fast, read the game, and make explosive plays—and that’s exactly what Finney brings to the table.
Moreover, the resurgence of USC under Riley has also led to increased attention from recruits across the country. The Trojans are back on the national radar, and Finney sees the opportunity to contribute to something special. The prospect of playing for a team that is rebuilding toward national contention, with the resources and coaching staff in place to challenge for championships, is an enticing factor for a player of Finney’s caliber.
LSU Tigers: The Tradition of Elite Defense and SEC Dominance
On the other hand, the LSU Tigers represent the pinnacle of college football in many ways, particularly when it comes to developing players for the NFL. Under head coach Brian Kelly, who took over in 2022, LSU has maintained its status as one of the premier programs in the SEC, a conference known for its toughness and elite level of competition.
What makes LSU such an appealing option for Finney is its tradition of elite defense. LSU has consistently produced NFL-caliber defensive players, particularly at linebacker. From Devin White and Patrick Queen to more recent standouts like Micah Baskerville, the Tigers have a legacy of developing linebackers who go on to succeed at the highest level. This reputation is something that undoubtedly resonates with Finney, who is looking for a program that can take his game to the next level.
LSU’s defense is known for its aggressive, physical style of play, which aligns perfectly with Finney’s own game. The Tigers’ defensive coordinator, Matt House, has implemented a scheme that allows his linebackers to be versatile, aggressive, and impactful. Finney, with his size and speed, would thrive in LSU’s system, where linebackers are asked to do it all—whether it’s rushing the passer, covering tight ends in space, or making big stops in the run game.
Moreover, LSU’s position in the SEC cannot be overstated. The SEC is widely regarded as the toughest conference in college football, and the opportunity to face off against elite competition week in and week out is something that many recruits, including Finney, find attractive. Playing in the SEC offers not only a higher level of competition but also greater exposure and a chance to compete for national championships. LSU’s consistent success in the conference and its ability to attract top-tier talent make it an appealing option for players who want to be a part of a championship-contending program.
Additionally, LSU’s recent success under Brian Kelly, including a strong recruiting class and a return to prominence in the SEC, has put the Tigers back in the national conversation. The combination of Kelly’s experience, LSU’s storied tradition, and the team’s continued focus on developing players for the NFL makes it a compelling option for Finney.
How Havon Finney Jr. Compares USC and LSU
When comparing the USC Trojans and the LSU Tigers, it’s clear that both programs have a lot to offer, and the decision ultimately comes down to what Finney values most in his college experience. Here’s a breakdown of the factors he considers when comparing the two programs:
- Location and Proximity to Home: For a California native like Finney, USC’s location in Los Angeles is a significant factor. Staying in-state would allow him to be close to his family and friends while also gaining exposure in one of the country’s largest markets. On the other hand, LSU’s location in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, provides a different experience, with a passionate fanbase and the opportunity to play in the elite SEC, but it’s further away from home.
- Defensive Development: Both USC and LSU offer opportunities to develop as a defensive player, but LSU’s history of producing elite NFL talent at linebacker, especially in the SEC, makes it a very attractive option for Finney. The chance to play in a proven defense under Matt House and develop alongside other elite players is hard to ignore.
- Competition and National Stage: While USC is rebuilding under Lincoln Riley and is poised to be a major contender on the national stage, LSU’s current status in the SEC gives Finney a chance to face the best competition every week. The SEC’s brutal schedule and high level of play could provide Finney with a unique opportunity to showcase his skills in some of the toughest games in college football.
- Coaching and Culture: Both programs have strong coaching staffs. Riley’s offensive prowess at USC and Kelly’s leadership at LSU both play significant roles in what Finney is looking for. USC offers a high-energy, offensive-minded environment, while LSU boasts a culture of grit, physicality, and championship aspirations.
