Four-Star QB Oscar Rios Down to Arizona and UCLA

The quarterback battle for an elite prospect in the Class of 2026 just got real, and it’s a clash between two former conference foes in the Pac-12.

Four-star quarterback Oscar Rios, a dynamic dual-threat signal-caller from Downey, California, has trimmed his list to a final two: Arizona and UCLA.

Rios’ previous cutdown list featured a total of seven programs, including Arizona, UCLA, Utah, Colorado, Oklahoma State, Kentucky, and Virginia Tech. Two months later, just Arizona and UCLA remain, both locked in battle for the California native.

Ranked No. 146 overall and the nation’s No. 10 QB, Rios posted stellar junior numbers: 2,554 yards, 22 touchdowns, six interceptions, and 735 rushing yards with an additional 11 scores. His numbers earned him an invite to the prestigious Elite 11 Finals this week, where the nation’s top quarterback prospects compete.

Despite a recruitment dominated by West Coast allure from UCLA, Arizona secured a late invite, cementing its position with a strong pitch and player fit. A final campus visit to Arizona or UCLA could tip the balance, maximizing relationships, scheme alignment, and NIL comfort.

Expect a commitment by June 25, following the Elite 11. Arizona is preparing its roster and 2026 projections around his anticipated choice.

This is a high-stakes finale for both Wildcats and Bruins. Arizona’s sudden vault into Rios’ final two signals a recruiting breakthrough, and landing a dual-threat QB with national pedigree could accelerate the development under Brent Brennan. It would go down as a massive win in Tucson.