The recruiting world was abuzz as Michael Fasusi, the highly-touted Five-Star Plus+ offensive tackle committed to the Oklahoma Sooners, took an unofficial visit to Austin to see the Texas Longhorns. Fasusi, widely considered one of the best offensive linemen in the 2025 class, made the visit as part of Texas’ ongoing efforts to flip the talented prospect before signing day.
Standing at 6-foot-5 and 285 pounds, Fasusi combines elite size, footwork, and athleticism to anchor the offensive line, making him a generational talent. While his commitment to Oklahoma remains solid for now, his visit to Texas highlights the ever-changing dynamics of college football recruiting, especially in high-profile rivalries like the Red River Showdown.
Michael Fasusi, out of Lewisville High School in Texas, has been a coveted recruit since his sophomore year. His versatility as a lineman, ability to handle elite edge rushers, and advanced technical skills have made him one of the most sought-after offensive tackles in the nation. He is among the rare few to hold a “Five-Star Plus+” designation, meaning he is rated as a five-star recruit by all major recruiting services.
Fasusi committed to Oklahoma earlier this year, citing the Sooners’ culture, development of offensive linemen, and head coach Brent Venables’ vision for the program. Offensive line coach Bill Bedenbaugh has played a pivotal role in Fasusi’s recruitment, with Oklahoma’s history of producing NFL-caliber offensive linemen being a major selling point.
Despite his pledge to the Sooners, Fasusi has kept communication lines open with other programs, including Texas. The Longhorns, under head coach Steve Sarkisian, have made a strong push to flip Fasusi, emphasizing their offensive vision and the opportunity to stay closer to home.
Fasusi’s trip to Austin was a significant moment in his recruitment. Texas made sure to roll out the red carpet, hosting him during a crucial weekend as the team gears up for the final stretch of its season. Fasusi was given an in-depth tour of the facilities, spent time with the coaching staff, and even had the chance to bond with current players and other recruits.
Sources close to the Longhorns’ program indicate that offensive line coach Kyle Flood has been relentless in pursuing Fasusi. Flood’s track record of developing NFL talent, coupled with the Longhorns’ success this season, has been a central theme in Texas’ pitch.
During his visit, Fasusi reportedly met with quarterback Quinn Ewers and freshman phenom Arch Manning. Texas highlighted its upward trajectory as it transitions to the SEC, a move that could elevate the program’s visibility and competitiveness. Playing in the SEC, widely regarded as the toughest conference in college football, is another selling point Texas hopes will appeal to Fasusi.
The Longhorns are pushing hard to make Austin an appealing destination for Fasusi. Here’s why Texas is a legitimate contender to flip the Oklahoma commit:
- Proximity to Home: Fasusi’s family resides in Lewisville, making Austin a more accessible option compared to Norman, Oklahoma. Texas is leveraging this advantage in their recruitment efforts.
- Kyle Flood’s Expertise: Coach Flood’s ability to develop linemen has already shown results, with Texas boasting one of the strongest offensive lines in the Big 12. This success could attract Fasusi, who is focused on preparing for the NFL.
- Transition to the SEC: Texas’ move to the SEC in 2024 offers a chance to compete at the highest level, with national exposure and matchups against the best programs in college football.
- Momentum: Texas has been successful on the recruiting trail, landing top talent like Arch Manning and 2024 five-star offensive linemen Brandon Baker and Daniel Cruz. Adding Fasusi to the mix would be a game-changer
Recruiting battles between Oklahoma and Texas are nothing new, and Fasusi’s visit underscores the fierce competition between these two historic programs. With both teams preparing for their move to the SEC, battles over top prospects like Fasusi have added stakes.
While Fasusi remains committed to Oklahoma, the fact that he is entertaining visits to Texas signals that his recruitment is far from over. Visits like this allow prospects to weigh their options carefully, and Texas will look to continue building momentum with Fasusi as signing day approaches.
After his visit to Texas, all eyes will be on whether Fasusi schedules additional visits or gives further consideration to other programs. For now, he remains solid in his pledge to the Sooners, but Texas has shown they won’t back down in their pursuit of the elite offensive tackle.
The Longhorns’ ability to flip Fasusi could have ripple effects in the 2025 recruiting class, sending a strong message about their ability to attract top-tier talent as they prepare to compete in the SEC. On the other hand, Oklahoma will fight tooth and nail to keep Fasusi in their fold, knowing his addition is critical to their long-term success.
Michael Fasusi’s visit to Texas adds another layer of intrigue to one of the most intense rivalries in college football. While the battle for Fasusi’s signature is far from over, Texas has made it clear they are willing to go all out to secure one of the best offensive linemen in the country.
As the recruiting cycle heats up, this showdown between Oklahoma and Texas will be one to watch. Whether Fasusi stays loyal to the Sooners or opts for the Longhorns, his decision will undoubtedly shape the future of whichever program he ultimately chooses.