USC football faces 5 questions ahead of spring practice
The USC Trojans are gearing up for what could be a make-or-break season under head coach Lincoln Riley. The pressure is on for Riley to deliver results after two unranked finishes and no appearances in the College Football Playoff.
With quarterback Jayden Maiava leading the charge, the Trojans are hoping for a breakthrough season. Maiava, coming off a strong 2025 campaign, will look to elevate his game even further and potentially make a run at the Heisman Trophy.
On the defensive side of the ball, new coordinator Gary Patterson brings a wealth of experience and a defensive mindset that could help shore up a unit that has struggled in recent years. Patterson’s ability to adapt to different skill sets and maximize talent could be a game-changer for the Trojans.
In the receiving corps, players like Tanook Hines and Zach Williams will be expected to step up and contribute, while incoming freshmen like Boobie Feaster and Kayden Dixon-Wyatt add depth and potential playmaking ability.
Special teams have been a weak spot for USC, but with new coordinator Mike Ekeler at the helm, the Trojans are hoping for a turnaround. Ekeler’s success at Nebraska in improving kickoff coverage, punt returns, and blocking kicks could provide a much-needed boost to USC’s special teams unit.
The Trojans also boast a top-ranked freshman class that includes talented players like offensive tackle Keenyi Pepe and edge rusher Luke Wafle. Riley is looking to integrate these freshmen into the lineup early on to give them a chance to contribute right away.
As USC prepares to open spring practice, all eyes will be on Riley and the Trojans as they aim to live up to the high expectations set for the program. The time is now for USC to make a statement and compete at the highest level in college football.
