02:11 How the Game Has Changed: Recruiting Realities, Politics, and Pathways

🔥 Recruiting Landscape & Strategy Parents and players are overwhelmed by showcase invites — not all are worth it. Matt and JP endorse four key events: Elite Football Combine Middle School Elite Combine KC Varsity Combine Lindenwood Mega Camp (and smaller one at William Jewell) Emphasis on having a realistic and strategic camp plan — don't blindly chase Power 4 invites. 🧠 Real Talk: How Recruiting Really Works Power 4 schools increasingly use the transfer portal over high school recruiting. Many Power 4-caliber high school athletes are ignored, only to be recruited after proving themselves elsewhere. Some schools use offers for leverage — they may not be ready to accept a commitment. Fit matters — it's not always about talent, but how a player matches a program's style and system. 💡 Tips for Athletes & Families Start early: Sophomore year film is crucial — aim to play varsity by then. Go to combines and camps early to build visibility. Early offers often don't mean much, but they help build momentum and perception. Self-promotion matters — recruiting is both a game of exposure and performance. 📈 Recruiting Trends & Data 45% of programs now prioritize the transfer portal over high school recruiting. For Power 4, the number may be as high as 65–75%. Early exposure is more critical than ever due to increased scholarship competition. 🏈 Politics Inside College Football Offers and playing time often come down to who on staff is advocating for the player. The side of the ball (offense/defense) a recruiter coaches can impact a player's chances once signed. Players should pay attention to coaching staff loyalty, staff connections, and internal power dynamics. 🔦 Examples & Behind-the-Scenes Insight Brady Cook's commitment story shows how internal politics nearly blocked his Mizzou offer. Coaches don't always know recruits' families — a red flag for personal connection. Matt and JP highlight how player rankings are often driven more by who offers first than film. 💼 The Business of College Football Head coaches operate like CEOs — sometimes far removed from daily player life. Recruiting is not always fair; it's driven by exposure, politics, and who's willing to bet on a kid early. Parents must dig deeper: who's recruiting, what's the fit, who really makes the decisions?   football360show.com Football 360 Show on X JP Rock Socials: X: https://x.com/JPRockMO IG:   / jprockscoutsu   Matt Biermann Socials: X: https://x.com/elitefootball IG:   / elitefootballacademy