Havon Finney Jr., a 5-star prospect from California, evaluates the football programs and cultures of the USC Trojans and LSU Tigers.

In the world of college football recruiting, few things are as thrilling as the journey of a 5-star recruit. These athletes are widely considered the best high school players in the country, and their decisions on where to play college football have the potential to shape the future of entire programs. One such athlete is Havon Finney Jr., a 5-star recruit from California who has become one of the most sought-after prospects in the 2025 recruiting class.

Finney, an elite defensive player, has already garnered attention from top-tier programs across the nation, including the USC Trojans and the LSU Tigers, two of college football’s most prestigious programs. Both schools have rich football traditions, passionate fan bases, and a track record of producing NFL talent. As Finney looks to make his decision, he is faced with comparing two iconic football programs with their own distinct cultures and histories.

This article will delve into Finney’s evaluation of the USC Trojans and LSU Tigers, exploring both the football programs’ traditions, their coaching philosophies, and the culture each school offers. Through Finney’s lens, we will analyze the factors that make both programs attractive to top recruits and ultimately explore how they compare in the race for his commitment.

The USC Trojans: A Legacy of Tradition and National Prestige

The University of Southern California, commonly known as USC, is one of the most storied programs in college football history. With a rich tradition that spans over a century, the Trojans have been synonymous with success. The program has won 11 national championships and produced numerous Heisman Trophy winners, including legends like Matt Leinart, Reggie Bush, and Carson Palmer. USC has long been a powerhouse in the Pac-12 and is known for its Hollywood flair, a program that combines high-profile talent with an undeniable presence in the media capital of the world.

Under the leadership of head coach Lincoln Riley, USC has been on a path of rejuvenation. Riley, who arrived at USC from Oklahoma, brought a high-powered offense and a winning mentality to Los Angeles. He’s known for his ability to develop quarterbacks and create an offensive juggernaut. His arrival at USC signaled a new era, one focused on winning championships and returning to the national spotlight. With quarterbacks like Caleb Williams (the 2022 Heisman Trophy winner), USC is once again one of the top teams in college football, competing for national titles and playoff spots.

Finney Jr., who has been following USC’s rise under Riley, likely sees a lot to like in the Trojans. The prospect of playing in a high-profile program in one of the most vibrant cities in the country is certainly appealing. The exposure that USC provides, both in terms of media attention and access to NFL scouts, makes it a desirable destination for players looking to get noticed at the next level. The Trojans’ success in developing NFL talent is well-documented, with alumni such as Troy Polamalu, Reggie Bush, and Deontay Burnett making significant impacts in the professional ranks. Additionally, the allure of being part of a championship-caliber program in a city that celebrates sports is a major factor that makes USC an attractive option.

However, USC’s allure goes beyond its football program. The university offers an elite academic experience in the heart of Los Angeles, one of the most prestigious cities in the world. The Trojan family culture is widely regarded as one of the best in college sports, providing a strong network that can open doors for players both on and off the field. As Finney evaluates his options, he will undoubtedly consider how being part of such a powerful network could impact his future career, both as a football player and as a professional in other fields.

The LSU Tigers: A Culture of Grit and Dominance

On the other side of the country, the LSU Tigers offer a completely different yet equally compelling proposition for a top-tier recruit like Havon Finney Jr. LSU, based in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, is one of the most successful programs in the Southeastern Conference (SEC), which is widely regarded as the toughest and most competitive conference in college football. With four national championships, multiple SEC titles, and a deep tradition of success, LSU has established itself as a juggernaut in college football.

The culture at LSU is one that values toughness, physicality, and grit. The Tigers are known for their hard-nosed defense, which is an ideal fit for a defensive prospect like Finney. In recent years, LSU’s defense has produced NFL stars such as Patrick Peterson, Tyrann Mathieu, and Devin White, all of whom were key contributors to the Tigers’ success both at the collegiate level and in the NFL. Under the leadership of head coach Brian Kelly, who took over in 2022 after a successful run at Notre Dame, LSU is continuing its tradition of hard-hitting football while also embracing a modern, forward-thinking approach to the game.

Finney Jr., with his defensive prowess, might find the appeal of LSU’s football program and its emphasis on developing elite defensive players particularly enticing. The Tigers have consistently been a breeding ground for defensive talent, and playing in the SEC, where the competition is fierce and the games are often high-stakes, is a valuable opportunity for any player looking to prove themselves on the biggest stage.

Another factor that makes LSU stand out is its passionate fan base. The culture in Baton Rouge is unlike any other in college football. Tiger Stadium, known as “Death Valley,” is renowned for its intimidating atmosphere and its deafening crowd, which creates one of the most challenging environments for opposing teams. This tradition of loud, proud, and loyal fans creates a powerful sense of community, which can be a huge draw for a recruit like Finney who values the energy and excitement of college football.

Furthermore, LSU offers an environment where players can thrive both athletically and academically. The program has a strong history of players excelling in the classroom, and the football team has produced numerous players who have gone on to successful NFL careers. LSU’s reputation for developing players in all aspects of the game—physical, mental, and emotional—makes it an attractive destination for any recruit looking to be molded into an NFL-caliber player.

Coaching Philosophies: Lincoln Riley vs. Brian Kelly

A key part of Finney Jr.’s evaluation process will be how he views the coaching philosophies of Lincoln Riley and Brian Kelly. Both are elite coaches who have built successful programs, but their styles and approaches to coaching differ in some respects.

Lincoln Riley’s coaching philosophy is centered around high-powered offense and player development. Known for his success with quarterbacks, Riley’s ability to design explosive offensive schemes and create dynamic, fast-paced games has made him a highly sought-after coach in college football. His tenure at Oklahoma, where he helped develop quarterbacks like Baker Mayfield, Kyler Murray, and Jalen Hurts, proved his prowess in coaching elite talent and creating an environment where players thrive. For a recruit like Finney, Riley’s ability to turn talented players into NFL-ready stars is certainly an attractive aspect of the program.

On the other hand, Brian Kelly’s coaching style is built on discipline, attention to detail, and an emphasis on physicality. Kelly is known for building strong, well-rounded teams that excel in all facets of the game, particularly defense. His experience at Notre Dame, where he consistently developed top talent and brought the program into the national conversation, gives him credibility as a coach who knows how to build a winning culture. Kelly’s focus on developing players mentally and emotionally to succeed at the highest level would be a strong selling point for Finney, particularly given LSU’s emphasis on toughness and grit.

Ultimately, the decision may come down to what Finney values most in a coach and a program. Does he prefer the fast-paced, high-energy style of Lincoln Riley and USC, or does he gravitate toward the discipline, structure, and physicality that Brian Kelly and LSU offer? Both coaches bring a wealth of experience and success to the table, and each would provide a unique environment for a player looking to develop and succeed at the next level.

Culture and Fit: Which Program Aligns with Finney Jr.’s Goals?

As Finney evaluates USC and LSU, one of the most important factors he will consider is which program best aligns with his goals both as a player and as a person. USC offers the allure of playing in one of the most high-profile programs in college football, with the added benefit of living in Los Angeles and gaining access to a network of influential professionals. The bright lights and media attention associated with USC are attractive for many recruits looking for exposure and the opportunity to compete at the highest level.

LSU, on the other hand, offers a culture of physicality, toughness, and community. The passion of the fans, the intensity of playing in the SEC, and the tradition of elite defensive play all make LSU an appealing destination for a recruit like Finney who values grit and competition. The environment in Baton Rouge is electric, and playing for a program that has consistently produced NFL talent is a powerful motivator for many recruits.

Ultimately, Havon Finney Jr.’s decision will come down to which program offers him the best opportunity to achieve his long-term goals, both on the football field and beyond. Whether it’s the high-octane offense and media presence of USC or the tough, defensive-minded culture at LSU, both programs offer unique advantages that can help Finney develop into the star he aspires to be.