The Summer School Game

Trojan fans, how much fun was that!? Lincoln Riley and his staff displayed all the work that was put in over the summer and gave us a peak at the potential for this USC team. Our players looked sharp, especially offensively where we executed very well and had no issue scoring 40+ points. It was clear that this team learned our playbook inside and out during summer camp and as a result 12 different receivers caught passes from Caleb Williams and Miller Moss. Caleb showed a high level of command over the offense, throwing passes of various lengths throughout the game but also using his feet when needed. He led the team in rushing yards despite not playing a full game. It appears we have a dual threat quarterback and a steady leader running our offense. We will need that later in the year.

Defensively, it was a slow start as we allowed Rice to make a long methodical opening drive all the way down the field. Soon after though, DC Alex Grinch made some in game adjustments and we stalled the Rice offense. Highlighted by the great play of Cailen Bullock, SC took a record 3 interceptions back for scores. We still have a lot of questions for this unit, but the potential flashed and it looks great.

This win, despite being over a Rice team playing with some key injuries, put USC into the AP #10 spot. In my opinion it’s way too early and much too high for that ranking. Until we are truly tested by a bigger team of similar caliber athletes we won’t know how good this USC team is. For the moment though, it sure is fun see 66 points on the scoreboard. Up next is a trip to the Farm against David Shaw and his Stanford Cardinal. Stanford has struggled in recent years, but they always rise up for a game against USC. The first road game under a new staff adds an element as well with new routines and procedures, but it should be easily overcome. USC will show up to play high energy football in Palo Alto, and I can’t wait to watch how we improved since week 1.

For the moment, the Trojans are 1-0. Let’s go get number two.

FIGHT ON