Notre Dame football is making serious waves in the recruitment of a 2027 five-star defensive lineman from California, and the latest developments have Irish fans buzzing. Marcus Fakatou, a massive 6-foot-6, 275-pound prospect, has narrowed his list to five top-tier programs—and notably left off the Trojans, Notre Dame's hated rival.

Fakatou, who plays at Riverside, California, announced over the weekend that he would not be visiting USC, according to recruiting analyst Ryan Dyrud. Then, on Monday, he dropped his top-five schools: Notre Dame, Ohio State, Texas, Oregon, and Georgia. The omission of USC is a stinging blow for the Trojans, who have long battled the Irish for West Coast talent.

This move underscores the growing recruiting power of the Fighting Irish under head coach Marcus Freeman. Fakatou is ranked as the No. 2 defensive lineman in the 2027 class by Rivals and the No. 32 overall prospect in the 247Sports Composite. Landing a commitment from him would be a major statement for Notre Dame, especially considering the other finalists are some of the most dominant programs in college football.

Fakatou plans to take official visits to all five schools, and the Irish will get their chance to host him in South Bend. If the trip to Notre Dame's campus can match the momentum they've already built, it could seal the deal for one of the most coveted recruits in the country.

For a program that prides itself on competing with the best, keeping Fakatou away from USC while going head-to-head with the likes of Ohio State and Georgia is a huge win—and a sign that Notre Dame's future on the defensive line is looking bright.