Lincoln Riley and the USC Trojans are gearing up for a pivotal offseason as they reflect on a disappointing 2024 campaign. After entering the season ranked as the No. 23 team in the AP Top 25, the Trojans finished with a lackluster 6-6 record. This outcome has intensified the focus on how USC can rebound and reclaim its status among college football’s elite.
Recruiting Challenges Under Lincoln Riley
The struggles of the Trojans extend beyond just the field; they have faced significant challenges in recruiting. Mark Sanchez, a former USC Heisman Trophy winner, recently highlighted these issues during a discussion with Colin Cowherd. Sanchez pointed out that USC once dominated California’s recruiting landscape but has since lost ground. “The fact that these guys are going from Southern California to somewhere they can’t even point out on a map in Alabama is mind-boggling,” he remarked, emphasizing the geographical disparities that have affected their recruitment.
In his three seasons at the helm, Riley has managed to secure only one top-ten recruiting class. As it stands, USC’s 2025 class is currently ranked 13th, and they have yet to land a five-star recruit. This trend is concerning for a program that has historically been a powerhouse in college football.
Key Departures and Transfer Portal Strategy
Adding to the challenges, the Trojans have seen several star players depart for the transfer portal, including Quinten Joyner, Bear Alexander, Miller Moss, and Duce Robinson. These losses could have a significant impact on the team’s depth and performance moving forward. However, the silver lining is that Riley has quickly pivoted to address these departures, signaling that he is ready to make bold moves in the transfer market.
The offseason is crucial for USC, and they are expected to be aggressive buyers in the transfer portal. With the right additions, the Trojans could turn their fortunes around and build a more competitive roster for the upcoming season.
First Transfer Commitment of the 2025 Class
The Trojans kicked off their offseason on a high note by securing a commitment from former UCF defensive back Chasen Johnson. This addition is a significant step forward as USC looks to bolster its roster. Johnson chose the Trojans over other notable programs like Miami and Florida State, showcasing the appeal of USC despite recent struggles.
Ranked as the No. 126 player in the transfer portal and the No. 18 cornerback by 247Sports, Johnson brings valuable experience to the Trojans. He finished the 2024 season with 18 total tackles and two passes defended over seven games, proving he can contribute immediately.
Looking Ahead: Potential Additions
But Johnson is just the beginning. Riley is also eyeing former Kentucky Wildcats defensive lineman Keeshawn Silver, who has included USC among his final four schools. Competing against Florida, Michigan, and Miami for Silver’s services, USC is in a prime position to add another impactful player. Silver is ranked as a four-star transfer and is considered the No. 31 portal recruit overall, as well as the No. 4 defensive lineman by 247Sports.
The potential addition of Silver could significantly enhance USC’s defensive line, addressing a critical need for the team. With these strategic moves, Riley is setting the stage for a more competitive squad in 2025.
The Road to Recovery
As the Trojans navigate this challenging offseason, the focus will be on rebuilding and re-establishing their dominance in college football. The combination of strategic recruiting and effective use of the transfer portal will be key to their success. Can USC reclaim its place among the elite programs in the nation? Only time will tell, but the groundwork is being laid for a promising future.
With the right adjustments and a renewed focus on recruiting, the Trojans can bounce back from their recent disappointments. The passion of the USC fanbase remains unwavering, and they are eager to see how Lincoln Riley and his staff will respond to the challenges ahead.
In summary, the Trojans have a long road ahead, but with the right strategy and a commitment to excellence, they can turn their fortunes around. The excitement for the upcoming season is palpable, and fans are hopeful that 2025 will mark a new chapter of success for USC football.
