After missing out on Julian Lewis, Deion Sanders' Colorado targets four-star USC OT commit Carde Smith

The Colorado Buffaloes successfully flipped four-star defensive back Antonio Branch Jr. from Penn State last month. Another 2025 class prospect coach Deion Sanders is looking to flip is the USC Trojans commit, four-star offensive tackle Carde Smith.

Smith visited Boulder last month and posted photos with Sanders and Colorado offensive line coach Phil Loadholt on X, captioning his post:

"Had a great time at CU this weekend 🦬."

Smith had heavy praise for the program, saying his time there has shown him "just how much for the culture they are," per a SI report.

Sanders previously transformed Jackson State into a conference powerhouse by leading the team to unprecedented success after a decade of struggle. He is continuing his successful mission with Colorado as well. The Buffaloes are off to a strong start this season, boasting a 4-1 record and remaining undefeated in the Big 12.

"It’s amazing knowing what he has done," Smith said.

Carde Smith is the nation's No. 235 overall prospect, the No. 18 offensive tackle in the 2025 cycle and the No. 15 recruit in Alabama, according to the On3 Industry Rankings. His potential flip to Colorado could be a game-changer for the Buffaloes, who are currently ranked No. 83 nationally with eight commitments in their 2025 class.

The Buffaloes also pursued Smith's fellow USC commit Julian Lewis and seemed to be the frontrunner at some point. However, the momentum of Lewis' recruitment seems to be swung back in favor of USC.

Can Colorado flip Carde Smith from USC?

Carde Smith committed to USC on Aug. 5, just a few weeks after initially pledging to the Auburn Tigers in June.

Recruiting analyst Adam Munsterteiger from BuffStampede has already forecasted a potential flip, suggesting that Colorado is actively pursuing Smith to join its ranks. While On3’s Recruiting Prediction Machine currently favors USC, giving the Trojans a 68% chance of retaining his commitment, the Buffaloes are not backing down.

Smith is scheduled to take an official visit to Boulder on Oct. 25, when the Buffaloes host the Cincinnati Bearcats at Folsom Field.

Colorado’s recruiting efforts have been relentless, with Deion Sanders and his staff pulling out all the stops to sway Smith. Even Colorado offensive line coach Phil Loadholt was in attendance at Ladd-Peebles Stadium last week to see the prospect personally.

While it may take time for Carde Smith to make a definitive decision, the potential for a flip to Colorado seems increasingly plausible. The Trojans will have to work hard to keep him locked in. He will be back at USC on Nov. 30 for the Notre Dame game.