Sacramento State's recruiting win could boost program's FBS prospects

Per 247Sports, Sacramento State ranks No. 55 in the country in 2026 high-school recruiting rankings, ahead of several FBS power conference programs, including Auburn (No. 84), Iowa State (No. 59), Nebraska (No. 62) and NC State (No. 70).

ESPN college football reporter Eli Lederman shared that McDonald selected the Hornets over SEC programs LSU and Ole Miss and the ACC's North Carolina Tar Heels, coached by six-time Super Bowl winner Bill Belichick.

Sacramento State has made a concerted effort to receive a Pac-12 bid, making significant investments in its athletics department in recent years. In March, the university hired former Sacramento Kings point guard Mike Bibby as men's basketball head coach.

The following month, NBA Hall of Fame center Shaquille O'Neal, whose son, Shaqir, transferred to Sacramento State during the offseason, was named general manager for the basketball team.

The football program hasn't been ignored. In December 2024, Sacramento State hired UNLV Rebels offensive coordinator/quarterbacks coach Brennan Marion as head coach. During his two seasons, UNLV averaged 34.9 points per game. 

His positive strides in recruiting suggest the Hornets made a wise hire. It could also be the impetus for the Pac-12 (or another conference) to extend Sacramento State an invitation, allowing it to jump to FBS.

In June, the NCAA denied the university's waiver request to play 2026 as an FBS independent. Undeterred, Sacramento State responded with the biggest recruiting win in program history. If it continues attracting top prospects, its case for moving up a division could be undeniable.