The Oklahoma Sooners, along with head coach Brent Venables, are preparing to host a top wide receiver recruit in an effort to prevent him from committing to Texas.
The Sooners are set to host one of the nation’s top wide receivers this weekend. Marcus Harris, from the renowned Mater Dei program in Santa Ana, CA, has been a highly coveted recruit for several years, debuting as a fringe five-star player according to multiple recruiting services.
With over 30 FBS offers from schools like Georgia, Oregon, Tennessee, and Texas, it will be challenging for Brent Venables and the Sooners to attract him to Norman. However, they are hopeful as Harris narrows down his options this month. What makes Harris so exceptional? And where will he ultimately choose to go?
Marcus Harris’ sweet wide receiver skills
As a sophomore at one of the nation’s top high school football programs, Harris made an immediate impact, amassing over 600 yards and a dozen receiving touchdowns. Last season, he replicated that yardage, contributing to Mater Dei’s state championship win.
These consecutive standout seasons have skyrocketed his reputation. Known for his exceptional track speed, advanced route running, precise footwork, and confident hands, Harris has garnered significant attention. This weekend, he’ll make his fourth visit in a month to Oklahoma, having already visited Georgia, UCLA, and Tennessee.
Harris embodies the ideal profile that Venables and wide receivers coach Emmett Jones have targeted over the past few seasons: excellent vertical speed, precise route running, and a decisive approach when handling the ball. He’s seen as a ready-made talent who can contribute immediately.
Where will Marcus Harris commit?
As of now, Harris’s future position remains uncertain, though several insiders in the recruiting industry are leaning towards UCLA following his recent official visit there earlier this month. UCLA, in need of playmakers, is vigorously pursuing him along with USC. However, USC’s standing has diminished after Harris opted against scheduling an official visit there.
Throughout his recruitment journey, Harris has made frequent visits to both Texas and Oregon, making them long-time favorites. Despite this, Oregon isn’t receiving an official visit.
Georgia and Tennessee have emerged late in his decision-making process, securing official visits within the past month, though their history with Harris is relatively brief. Both remain in contention but are considered less likely to land him.
Oklahoma appears to have an advantage if they can impress him during his upcoming visit, potentially swaying him away from Texas. Although Texas is hosting him later this month, Oklahoma will make their final pitch first. Both schools have pursued him since early 2022, with strong relationships between their coaching staffs and Harris. However, Oklahoma might offer a clearer path to early playing time, especially with their top four wide receivers possibly leaving after 2024.
While Harris has not set a commitment date, aside from UCLA, Oklahoma and Texas appear to be strong contenders to secure his commitment as his recruitment approaches its conclusion.
