Brothers Rex and Rob Ryan share a striking resemblance, but one key difference sets them apart: Rob’s distinctive long silver hair. This flowing mane has become a signature look for him, reminiscent of another football legend, Troy Polamalu.
### Rob Ryan’s New Role at USC
Rob Ryan has officially joined the coaching staff at the University of Southern California (USC) as the linebackers coach and assistant head coach for the defense. This marks a significant return to college football for Ryan, who hasn’t held a college position since the 1999 season. His mission? To lead the Trojans’ defense back to prominence, much like the legendary Polamalu did during his time at USC.
### A Legendary Comparison
Polamalu, a name synonymous with excellence in college football and a Hall of Fame inductee, is renowned not just for his incredible skills on the field but also for his iconic long, curly black hair. Now that Rob Ryan is at USC, he finds himself in a unique position to draw comparisons between their hairstyles.
“I’d have to say Troy [has better hair] there,” Rob Ryan joked. “That’s a close one. Mine’s a little grayer but he’s getting a tint to his. A little tint of gray, now. Both of us, ironically, married Greek women. It’s tough. That’s tough. So, I’m sure that she’s in charge of his house like mine’s in charge of me.”
### The Evolution of College Football
While Ryan’s return to college football is exciting, he acknowledges that a lot has changed since he last coached at this level. However, he firmly believes that the core values and fundamentals of football remain unchanged.
“You know what, that’s the biggest overrated thing there is. People are people. The only people that are gonna survive in football are guys that are the alphas, that are tough, that love contact, that enjoy running to the ball, competing at the highest level. That’s what you still see,” Ryan explained.
### The Essence of Success
What does it take to succeed in football? According to Ryan, it boils down to a few key attributes: being smart, tough, competitive, hard-working, selfless, and having a genuine passion for the game. “That’s the only people that make it, and when you’re on this level, it’s the same as professional football,” he added.
Ryan’s enthusiasm for coaching young athletes is palpable. “They keep you young, they keep you excited, they keep you happy. I like teaching and coaching young people because they’re so easy to be around. They’re the best people in the world. You could land them in any business in the world, and they’d be successful.”
### The Trojans’ Future
As Rob Ryan prepares to mold the USC defense, he is filled with optimism for the upcoming season. “We’ve got to win. Up there, that’s what we’re shooting for, and it’s the same. I haven’t even seen a difference and I’ve been coaching for 40 years or whatever it is. They’re great. You could put any one of our kids in front anywhere. He’s going to stand out, and the eyes will go to him because that’s just who they are.”
### Looking Ahead
The upcoming spring will be a pivotal time for Rob Ryan and the Trojans. With a fresh coaching perspective and a wealth of experience, Ryan is poised to make a significant impact on the team. His passion for the game and commitment to developing young talent will undoubtedly resonate with players and fans alike.
In the world of college football, where tradition meets innovation, Rob Ryan’s return to USC is a story of renewed hope and ambition. As he steps into this new role, he carries with him not just the legacy of his own family but also the aspirations of a storied program looking to reclaim its place among the elite.
With his unique blend of experience, enthusiasm, and a touch of humor, Rob Ryan is ready to lead the Trojans into a new era. The excitement is palpable, and fans can’t wait to see how this season unfolds under his guidance. Will the Trojans rise to the challenge and reclaim their glory? Only time will tell, but with Rob Ryan at the helm, the future looks bright.
