Rob Ryan has made quite the splash as the new linebackers coach for the USC Trojans, and his recent press conference showcased both his humor and his deep passion for college football. After a long absence from the college scene, Ryan is ready to dive back in, and he’s not holding back on his ambitions.
Returning to College Football
Ryan hasn’t coached in college since 1993, when he was the defensive line coach at Tennessee State. A lot has changed in the world of college football since then, and Ryan is acutely aware of the differences. The landscape is vastly different now, with new rules, recruiting strategies, and a heightened emphasis on player development. Yet, Ryan’s enthusiasm for the game remains undiminished.
Recruiting in a New Era
Despite his long hiatus, Ryan is confident in his recruiting abilities. He shared his thoughts on the challenges of scouting young talent in today’s game. “Going out by myself, I would have probably broken every rule. No, I wouldn’t have, maybe a few of them,” he joked. But his confidence shines through as he explains his knack for identifying talent.
“I think I’m kind of used to seeing a player, know what he looks like, and when you see a face that you’re used to looking at, you’re like ‘oh, I want that kid,’ you know? So I saw a couple of those on the road, and I’m like, ‘this would be pretty cool.’”
However, he acknowledges the challenges of projecting potential in younger players. “Looking at these young kids, you know, he’s 170 pounds. Can you project? This is where it’s going to be a little different,” he admits. Yet, Ryan remains optimistic, reminding himself that it’s ultimately a people business. “Back when I was coaching at Tennessee State, 110 years ago, I used to sign a lot of kids, so I’ll be okay. I’ll be good at it, for sure.”
Aiming for Championship Glory
Ryan is not just looking to fill a role; he has set his sights on contributing to a national championship team. “So obviously, I wanted to come to a place, if I’m going to leave pro football, I’m going to come to a college, you know, I want to win a national championship,” he stated emphatically. His choice of USC was deliberate. “I wanted to make sure I chose USC, you know, it’s the right place to be,” he added, highlighting the storied history and tradition of the program.
Ryan’s admiration for head coach Lincoln Riley is clear. “I’ve been a big admirer of his … kind of hard not to like a guy. He’s got all these Heisman Trophy winners, you know?” His respect for Riley speaks volumes about his commitment to the program and his desire to be part of something special.
Building Connections and Trust
Ryan also brings a wealth of experience and relationships to USC. He spoke fondly of his connection with D’Anton Lynn, who has also joined the coaching staff. “We go back … me and D’Anton coached together at two places, Buffalo and Baltimore. We were number one in run defense when I was there with D’Anton, you know?” This history not only strengthens the coaching staff but also fosters a sense of camaraderie that can translate into success on the field.
Embracing the Challenge Ahead
As Ryan embarks on this new chapter of his career, he is fully aware of the challenges that lie ahead. The college football landscape is competitive, and recruiting top talent is more crucial than ever. But with his extensive background in coaching and a clear vision for success, Ryan is poised to make a significant impact at USC.
His infectious enthusiasm and commitment to excellence are evident, and it’s clear that he’s ready to embrace the challenge. “I’ll be good at it, for sure,” he confidently asserts, and one can’t help but feel that he’s ready to prove it.
The Future Looks Bright
With Rob Ryan at the helm of the linebackers, USC fans have plenty to be excited about. His blend of experience, humor, and ambition makes him a perfect fit for a program that has a rich history and a bright future. As he steps back into the world of college football, there’s a palpable sense of energy and optimism surrounding his arrival.
In a sport that thrives on passion and determination, Ryan embodies the spirit of college football. His journey back to the sidelines is not just about coaching; it’s about building relationships, fostering talent, and ultimately, winning championships. The Trojans are in for an exhilarating ride, and with Ryan leading the charge, the future looks incredibly promising.
