LINCOLN — The recruitment of Ahmad Hudson, the crown jewel of Nebraska’s 2027 board, has shifted into high gear, but not in the direction Husker fans were hoping for. Despite Nebraska making Hudson’s final list of six schools, a major analytical shift now has LSU surging past the Huskers for the services of the elite dual-sport star.
A Generational Talent
Hudson isn’t just a football prospect; he is a rare athletic outlier. On the gridiron, he is ranked as the No. 1 tight end in the 2027 class and the No. 14 overall player nationally. On the hardwood, he is equally dominant, currently ranked as the No. 5 center in the country and No. 31 overall in basketball. For months, Nebraska was considered the front-runner to land this two-sport powerhouse, but analyst Shea Dixon has officially moved LSU into the lead.
The SEC Threat
The Huskers now face stiff competition from a «Top Six» that includes LSU, USC, Texas A&M, Miami, and Missouri. The surge by LSU is particularly concerning for Big Red Nation, especially given the geographic pull of the Bayou and the aggressive NIL resources at the disposal of programs like LSU and Lane Kiffin’s rival suitors.
Trae Taylor Leads the Fight
Despite the «bad news» from analysts, Nebraska isn’t waving the white flag. Husker quarterback commit Trae Taylor has been vocal about his role as a peer recruiter, making it clear he is still pushing «overtime» to bring Hudson to Lincoln. Taylor’s relentless pursuit remains Nebraska’s strongest internal weapon as they try to reclaim the top spot.
Plenty of Time Left
With it only being March, there is still a long road to Signing Day. However, losing the lead to LSU this early in the cycle puts Matt Rhule and his staff in a difficult position. They must now find a way to counter the momentum of the «Bayou Bengals» if they hope to see Hudson wearing the scarlet and cream on both the field and the court.