When Rob Ryan stepped up to the podium for his first press conference as USC’s linebackers coach, he didn’t just talk about football; he took everyone on a thrilling ride through his experiences and expectations. For 19 minutes, Ryan shared his admiration for the Trojans, praising head coach Lincoln Riley and defensive coordinator D’Anton Lynn with an infectious enthusiasm that lit up the room.
The Journey Back to College Football
Ryan’s return to college football is significant, especially considering he last coached at this level in 1999. He reflected on his time in the NFL, where low expectations were often the norm. However, his tone shifted dramatically when discussing the current USC program. With high praise for Lynn and Riley, Ryan expressed his excitement about being part of a team with such potential.
High Hopes for the Upcoming Season
“Watch where we finish this year,” Ryan declared, his energy palpable. “This guy [Lynn] is special. He knows how to get it done. He’s a great communicator, a great teacher, and he makes everybody better, including the coaches.” His words resonated with the reporters, as he eagerly anticipated the upcoming spring practices.
Ryan’s enthusiasm didn’t stop there. “We’re gonna go against the best? Oh, good. Bring it on. Let’s see. I can’t wait to see that little JUCO kid from Hutch – bam, we’re gonna get after you. But anyway, it’ll be great. We’re excited.” His passion for the game and the players was evident, and it was clear that he was ready to dive headfirst into the challenges ahead.
A Personal Connection: Jayden Maiava
As the conversation shifted, Ryan spoke about quarterback Jayden Maiava, who transferred from UNLV and eventually took over as USC’s starting quarterback. What makes this connection even more intriguing is that Maiava’s uncle, Kaluka Maiava, was a captain at USC and played for Ryan in the past.
Ryan recalled his initial impressions of Kaluka, and it was a candid moment. “I saw the Maiava guy – I coached his uncle. I hated that kid when I first had him,” Ryan shared with a chuckle. “That USC kid. The little captain. Remember, he could walk under this table right here. Little guy. We draft this little runt. I’m like, ‘Oh, man.’ This guy. I was all over this kid during the OTAs. Man, this guy.”
It’s fascinating to hear Ryan’s honest reflections. He didn’t hold back, showcasing his competitive spirit and the challenges he faced in molding young talent.
A Change of Heart in Hawaii
However, the story took a turn for the better when Ryan took a vacation to Hawaii. Before his trip, Maiava, a native of Honolulu, made sure Ryan knew he could reach out if he needed anything. This friendly gesture turned out to be fortuitous when Ryan found himself in a bit of a bind while renting a car.
“I’ve never been to Maui,” Ryan recalled. “I run things in Oahu, but I’m gonna go to Maui. He’s like, ‘Hey, Rob. You get in any kind of trouble now, you just tell them you know Kaluks.’ I’m like, ‘Yeah, I’m gonna tell them I know Kaluks. Get the hell out of here.’”
Ryan’s humorous storytelling continued as he described his predicament. “I walk out there, do the usual. … Now, they’re out of cars. I’m in Maui, I’ve got no car. So what do I do? ‘I know Kaluks.’ I got a car – ‘Oh, you know Kaluks?’ Swear to God, hand to God, true story. I got a van, I’m like, ‘Yeah, Kaluks. My man.’”
Building Relationships and Trust
This experience not only helped Ryan secure a car but also marked a turning point in his relationship with Maiava. “I ended up loving the kid. Oh, man, is he mean as a rattlesnake, and there’s a reason why that kid was captain with all those first-round draft choices. I love that guy. Looks can be deceiving,” Ryan said, emphasizing the importance of understanding and building relationships with players.
Ryan’s journey back to college football is not just about tactics and strategies; it’s about connection, trust, and the shared experiences that shape a team. His passion for the game and his players shines through, making it clear that he is ready to embrace the challenges ahead.
Looking Ahead
As the Trojans gear up for the upcoming season, Ryan’s energy and enthusiasm will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the team’s defensive strategy. With a strong leader like him at the helm, fans can expect an exciting season filled with growth, determination, and perhaps a few surprises along the way.
In a world where college football is constantly evolving, Ryan’s return to the sidelines is a reminder of the importance of mentorship and the lasting impact coaches can have on their players. With his sights set high, it will be thrilling to see how the Trojans perform under his guidance in the coming months.
