The USC Trojans are coming off a disappointing 2024 season in which they won just seven games. However, head coach Lincoln Riley and his team are excited about the prospect of bouncing back in 2025.
USC’s Lincoln Riley Shares the Vision Behind Big Expectations in 2025
Insider Josh Pate recently sat down with Riley to chat about the upcoming season.
Riley spoke about the team’s vibe heading into the year after a tough 2024 campaign.
“The momentum in this building is real…Are we happy with seven wins? Hell no,” Riley said. “Am I excited about the way our team played for a large part of last season? 100% I am.”
USC is coming off a 7 win season yet the vibe in the building is off the charts. I had @LincolnRiley explain how that’s possible. pic.twitter.com/9c9mqNqyvC
— Josh Pate (@JoshPateCFB) April 21, 2025
Some casual fans may see seven wins as a disappointment simply because of the logo.
While it’s always expected that the USC Trojans contend each year, sometimes coaches need a year or two to adjust.
After winning 11 games in his first season at USC in 2022, the Trojans followed that with an eight-win season in 2023 and seven wins last year.
These past few years, though difficult, may have set the stage for a rejuvenated program heading into 2025.
If what Riley is saying is true, the sky could be the limit for USC.
USC’s 2025 Expectations
Simply put, the Trojans are playing in arguably the best conference in America.
With Ohio State coming off a national title, Michigan having beaten Ohio State three straight years, Oregon thriving under Dan Lanning and Penn State making the College Football Playoff semifinals, the competition is fierce.
However, Riley will have plenty of talent to work with on this year’s roster.
That includes a strong offensive line, explosive skill players and key contributors on special teams.
If Riley can identify a starting quarterback from Jayden Maiava, Husan Longstreet and transfer Sam Huard, the Trojans could be a sneaky contender in the conference.
KEEP READING: USC’s Latest Transfer Portal News
Look for USC to push toward a 10-win season, especially with Riley’s track record of producing and developing offensive talent.
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