USC Trojans head coach Lincoln Riley has made a strong statement to fans and critics amidst a challenging 2024 for the Trojans. The team’s 7-6 record prompts concerns about the program’s fate.
But Riley has made it known that “Southern Cal” is just getting started. What did the coach say about how he expects his team to perform in 2025?
Lincoln Riley’s Bold Statement
When asked about the USC Trojans’ chaotic 2024 season, head coach Lincoln Riley made a bold statement.
Lincoln Riley after USC moved to #1 in the 2026 class team rankings: “You can either get on this rocket ship, or you can watch us go right by.” 🚀✌🏻#FightOn✌🏻 pic.twitter.com/tJJgb3nBmZ
— Arrogant Nation✌🏻 (@FightOnRusty) February 23, 2025
“You can either get on this rocket ship or watch us go right by,” Riley said at a recent appearance in Los Angeles. Notably, the Trojans have been on a tear in the recruiting sphere, earning one of the top classes in the 2026 cycle.
This statement is both a call to action and a warning to supporters, critics, and recruits. Riley, who took over the Trojans in 2022 with lofty goals, is now under intense scrutiny following a disappointing result in 2024.
With rising concerns about the program’s future, Riley’s remark shows his unwavering trust in the ultimate objective for USC football.
How will they turn things around? Let’s figure it out.
What Went Wrong in 2024 for USC?
The 2024 season was anything but ideal for USC. Only a year after quarterback Caleb Williams won the Heisman Trophy, the Trojans struggled to sustain supremacy. Several factors led to the team’s poor performance, including a lack of clear defensive leadership and some very lofty expectations.
Despite criticism from fans, though, Riley defends his strategy. His “rocket ship” mentality promotes long-term progress and commitment.
While it seems like USC’s entry into the Big Ten was a little rocky in Year One, Riley’s massive improvement on the recruiting trail is encouraging, to say the least. All eyes will be on Riley in 2025 to see if he is a man of words.
TROJANS’ TRAJECTORY: CFB INSIDER BELIEVES USC WILL MAKE BIG STEPS IN 2025
The Trojans will open their 2025 campaign by hosting FCS newcomer Missouri State on Aug. 30. In their second year in the new conference, USC will face Michigan, Nebraska, and Iowa. They’ll also once again face former Pac-12 rivals Oregon and UCLA.
So, will you get on the Trojans’ rocket ship next season, or will you watch it go by?
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