As the dust settles on the 2024 college football season, former USC star Matt Leinart is feeling optimistic about the Trojans’ prospects heading into 2025. While he acknowledges the limitations of drawing conclusions from a bowl game win over Texas A&M, he chooses to focus on the positives. After all, a victory is still a victory, and it could serve as a launching pad for the future.
Exciting Bowl Game Finish
In a thrilling finish, USC managed to rally in the fourth quarter, ultimately defeating Texas A&M 35-31 in the Las Vegas Bowl. This victory allowed the Trojans to wrap up their season with a 7-6 record. While Lincoln Riley’s tenure has raised more questions than answers since he took the helm, this win could be the turning point the program needs as they head into Year 4 under his leadership.
Leinart’s Perspective
“A depleted USC football team at 6-6 just beat a depleted 8-4 (Texas A&M) team (a team who was one win away from going to the SEC title game),” Leinart tweeted. “Don’t put a ton of stock in these games anymore, but you can see what USC can be at times. A lot of questions going into next year, but with a favorable schedule, maybe it’s the year they turn it around. One can hope.” His words resonate with fans who are eager to see the Trojans reclaim their former glory.
Season Overview
USC’s season started with promise, as they opened with a win against LSU and climbed to No. 11 in the nation by September 21. However, the optimism quickly faded when they fell to Michigan, dropping their record to 2-1. Despite a 3-1 start, the Trojans faced a tough midseason stretch, losing three consecutive games and finding themselves at 3-4. It felt like the sky was falling, and fans were left wondering what had gone wrong.
Midseason Struggles and Resilience
But just when it seemed like all hope was lost, USC found a way to rally. The Trojans managed to win three of their next four games, showcasing their resilience and determination. While it wasn’t the season that Riley and his crew had envisioned, overcoming that midseason slump provided a glimmer of hope for the future.
Positive Vibes Moving Forward
Capping off the season with a win over Texas A&M not only boosted team morale but also sent positive vibes into the offseason. “At the end of the day, we all realized what we came to do in Vegas, and that is come out with a win,” said wide receiver Ja’Kobi Lane, who had an impressive performance with seven catches for 127 yards and three touchdowns. “And I think we’re all happy with that, and it’s time to go home and enjoy a little bit of Christmas time that we missed.”
Riley’s Track Record and Future Challenges
As the head coach, Riley holds a 26-14 record at USC over three seasons. On the surface, that’s not too shabby, but fans remember his remarkable success at Oklahoma, where he led the team to four straight Big 12 titles and College Football Playoff appearances. With such high expectations, USC hired him to bring the program back to its glory days, and the pressure is mounting as the Trojans look to improve in 2025.
The Road Ahead
Will there be a lot of pressure on Riley to get it right in 2025? Absolutely. The stakes are higher than ever, and fans are eager to see tangible results. However, this bowl victory could be the foundation Riley needs to finally have everything come together for USC next fall. With a favorable schedule and a renewed sense of confidence, the Trojans might just be on the brink of a breakthrough season.
Final Thoughts
As we look ahead, the excitement surrounding USC football is palpable. With a mix of optimism and cautious hope, fans are eager to see how this team evolves. Will they rise to the occasion and reclaim their spot among college football’s elite? Only time will tell, but for now, there’s a sense of renewed energy and potential as the Trojans prepare for the challenges that lie ahead in 2025. The journey continues, and college football fans everywhere will be watching closely.
