Lincoln Riley and the 2024 USC Trojans: A Year of Change and Challenge
Hey there, college football fans! With Lincoln Riley now sitting in his third year as the head coach of the USC Trojans, things are heating up for the 2024 season. But let’s face it, the landscape has shifted, and not necessarily for the better. Riley’s inaugural season brought excitement and hope, and the glimpses of glory kept us on the edge of our seats. But as the Trojans trod forward, many are left wondering: can they overcome the hurdles that lie ahead?
Evaluating Expectations for USC
If you tuned into FOX Sports’s “The Herd,” you might have caught Bruce Feldman discussing what’s in store for USC this coming season. He painted a somewhat grim picture, stating that while USC once seemed to be on an upward trajectory, they now feel like they’re back at square one—even after a so-so 8-5 record. That’s just painful to hear, especially given USC’s storied history.
The regression is evident. Caleb Williams, who dazzled as the former Heisman winner, has headed off to the NFL, leaving behind a roster with some big shoes to fill. Feldman noted that while Williams and former wide receiver Jordan Addison masked many flaws, the underlying issues of coaching and team culture remain painfully apparent. It’s like hoping your ex will change without first addressing why you broke up!
Roster Overhaul and Defensive Concerns
USC’s defense has been the Achilles’ heel for a while now, and 2023 was no exception. They ranked near the bottom of the Pac-12, allowing a staggering 438.8 yards per game. That’s just not going to cut it in the Big Ten, especially with brutal matchups like Michigan and Washington lurking on the schedule. With the Trojans making their move into the Big Ten, former UCLA defensive coordinator D’Anton Lynn has been brought on to run the show. Let’s hope he can whip that defense into shape quicker than you can say, “Touchdown Trojans!”
Quarterback Miller Moss will be the man to replace Williams. He’s shown flashes of brilliance, especially in that Holiday Bowl against Louisville, but let’s not forget he’s got only a handful of career attempts under his belt. Losing key players like running back Marshawn Lloyd and talented receivers like Tahj Washington won’t make his job any easier.
USC’s 2024 Recruiting Landscape
Now, let’s chat about recruiting—the backbone of any successful football program. Feldman expressed concerns about USC’s recruiting rankings, which sit at a mediocre 20th nationally. The big kicker? No five-star recruits among 39 new players. This feels like a missed opportunity, especially with rival programs revamping their rosters with top-tier talent. How can USC hope to compete if they aren’t attracting those high-profile athletes?
Notable Matchups Ahead
The Trojans’ schedule is littered with must-watch games that could define their season. With a neutral-site showdown against LSU and home games against powerhouse teams like Penn State and Notre Dame, USC fans will need to prepare for some nail-biting action. Can these youngsters step up and deliver? The pressure is definitely on, and the college football universe will be watching.
Looking Forward: Optimism Amidst Challenges
Is it possible for USC to become an eight-win team in 2024? Sure, it’s feasible. But is there a real shot at the College Football Playoff? Feldman isn’t so sure—and honestly, neither am I. There’s a lot of talent on the roster, with promising young receivers and a potential star in Moss, but when you look at the overall picture, it feels like a season filled with questions rather than answers.
So as we gear up for another season, one thing remains crystal clear: it’s not just about the games; it’s about the spirit of the Trojans and their storied legacy. Watching how they tackle these challenges will make for some compelling football—and trust me, you won’t want to miss a minute of the action. Here’s hoping for an exciting ride ahead for USC, filled with unexpected twists, unforgettable moments, and maybe, just maybe, a few sweet victories along the way!
