By Spencer McLaughlin of Locked on CFB for SuperWest Sports
July 2, 2026
The new “5 in 5” eligibility rule is a welcome change that adds stability to the landscape of college athletics.
What will this mean for roster construction at the G6 level?
On today’s episode of Locked On College Football, recruiting analyst Brian Smith joins Spencer McLaughlin to discuss the fallout.
Will there be an impact in recruiting strategy from the high school ranks?
Cal enters its first year under head coach Tosh Lupoi, who will get a real test in his first game as a head coach against UCLA and Bob Chesney.
Are they a true dark-horse with some odd scheduling quirks?
00:00 Discussing new 5 and 5 rule impacts
06:03 Choosing the right college for athletes
09:33 Transfer portal opportunities in college football
11:51 New college eligibility rules
16:30 Discussion on sports player development
19:19 Analyzing Cal’s coaching challenges
21:04 Predicting Cal’s Football Season
26:49 Predicting Cal’s end-of-season success
27:22 Coaching changes and team records
Follow and subscribe to the Podcast on these platforms…
Follow on Twitter: https://x.com/smclaughlinCFB
Follow the show on Twitter: https://x.com/LockedOn_CFB
-
McLaughlin: Cal a Dark-Horse Contender Under Tosh Lupoi?
> Spencer talks about the potential impact of the new '5-in-5' eligibility rule on G6 recruiting - July 2, 2026 -
McLaughlin: What’s Next After Launch for Retooled Pac-12?
> Spencer talks about the best coaches in the league with 'Locked On Pac-12' host Christian Rauh - July 1, 2026 -
McLaughlin: 2026 A Do-or-Die Year for USC’s Lincoln Riley?
> Spencer talks about the stakes for three coaches whose jobs are not safe entering this season - June 30, 2026