State of Troy

Trojans Fans,

A new chapter, dawn of a new era, fresh start, changing of the guard. These terms and many more have been circulated in the countless articles and press conference that have surrounded USC since Lincoln Riley was ushered in as the program’s 30^th coach on November 28, 2021.

For us fans, it’s felt a little bit like getting a Christmas present and being told you can’t play with it for 9 months. For Riley and his newly formed staff, it’s been all-business. From day one meeting the press to that same night when he sat in the living room of a recruit, Riley has blazed a trail though the transfer portal and high school recruiting circles. Riley has a heavy burden as he is charged with not only coaching, recruiting, navigating a changing NIL environment, but generally resurrecting a fanbase that has been downtrodden and apathetic from enduring the Helton era.

Shifting our focus to the field USC will enter the Coliseum under a blazing hot sun led by star transfers Caleb Williams and Biletnikoff winner, Jordan Addison. Defensively Shane Lee, the Alabama transfer, will anchor our unit. His leadership has been touted since his arrival to campus and I am glad to see the unit galvanizing around his presence. We have quite a bit of youth and some depth concerns defensively, so it is key that this unit learn to play together quickly. Offensively, we have a multitude of weapons so the challenge will be making all the pieces fit and finding an identity.

My two biggest questions and things to look for on Saturday; Is this a disciplined football team? Will we take any unnecessary after the whistle penalties, or will we play with class and integrity? What type of command do Lincoln Riley and Caleb Williams have over our offense? So often under Helton, we appeared confused and out of sorts leaving the huddle or waiting for a play call from the sidelines. I am hopeful to see exciting, yet methodic football. Regardless of our opponent we can learn a lot from our sideline body language and offensive cadence.

With so many unknowns it would be unfair to make any predictions or expectations for the season. USC fans should pause and not be carried away by the visions of playoffs berths dancing in their heads. Rather we should enjoy the kickoff of a new age in Trojan athletics and savor the potential that lies ahead of us. Dust off your old jerseys and hats, call upon your friends and family to get back the Coliseum on Saturday, and get ready to celebrate a new conquest. USC football is back, and boy have we waited a long enough time to say those words.

FIGHT ON