After a challenging first season in the Big Ten, the USC Trojans and head coach Lincoln Riley enter 2025 with a clear mandate: prove they can contend in their new conference. The Trojans’ inaugural Big Ten campaign was a mixed bag, with flashes of brilliance on offense often undone by late-game collapses and an inability to win consistently on the road. With key personnel changes on both sides of the ball and a schedule that offers a chance for a statement season, 2025 is a pivotal year for the program. The hope is that the lessons of the first year in the Big Ten have been learned and a new foundation is being built for long-term success.
Top Storylines
- The Big Ten Learning Curve: Last year, the Trojans struggled on the road and failed to win a conference road game until the final week of the season. The physical, punishing style of Big Ten football was a tough adjustment. This year, USC must show it has “Big Ten-proofed” itself, particularly in the trenches, where they have made significant strides in size and depth. How the Trojans handle the cold weather and hostile environments of the Midwest will likely define their season.
- A Revamped Defense: USC’s defense showed signs of improvement last season, and the staff has been completely retooled. The hiring of NFL legend Rob Ryan as Assistant Head Coach for Defense and Linebackers coach, along with Chad Savage as the tight ends/inside receivers coach, and Trovon Reed as the cornerbacks coach, brings a wealth of experience. The expectation is for a more physical and fundamentally sound unit that can get stops when it matters most.
- The Quarterback Battle’s Aftermath: While Jayden Maiava is the projected starter after a solid finish to 2024, the presence of five-star freshman Husan Longstreet creates an intriguing dynamic. Maiava showed flashes of his potential, including a strong performance against Texas A&M in the Las Vegas Bowl. His experience will be key, but fans will be eager to see if the talented young Longstreet can push for playing time.
Key Players to Watch
- Jayden Maiava, QB: After stepping in as the starter late last season, Maiava is poised to lead the offense. His ability to manage the game and make plays will be crucial.
- Makai Lemon and Ja’Kobi Lane, WRs: USC’s receiving corps is a clear strength, with both Lemon and Lane returning. Makai Lemon, in particular, is a dynamic playmaker who was a top-10 Big Ten player in all-purpose yards last season.
- Xavier Jordan, WR: A redshirt freshman, Jordan is the name generating buzz in fall camp. Expected to compete for the WR3 role, he could be a breakout star who adds another explosive element to the passing attack.
- The Defensive Line: The Trojans have invested heavily in the defensive line. Players like Jamaal Jarrett, Keeshawn Silver, and five-star freshman Jahkeem Stewart are expected to anchor a much-improved front that will be key in Big Ten battles.
Key Games
- at Notre Dame (October 18th): A classic rivalry game that is a must-win for both programs. This game, on the road in South Bend, will be a true test of USC’s mental toughness and ability to handle a hostile environment against a top-10 team. It’s a game that could define the Trojans’ season and their progress under Lincoln Riley.
- at Oregon (November 22nd): The late-season trip to Eugene will likely have major Big Ten title implications. Autzen Stadium is one of the toughest places to play, and Oregon is consistently ranked among the top teams in the nation. If USC can pull off a win here, it would be a massive statement to the conference and the country.
- Michigan (October 11th): While not as highly-ranked as Notre Dame or Oregon, Michigan still represents a significant home challenge. This game will be a key measuring stick to see how USC stacks up against the Big Ten’s traditional powers in the friendly confines of the Los Angeles Coliseum.
Final Prediction
This is a make-or-break year for the Trojans. They have the offensive talent to put up points on anyone, but the success of their season hinges on the defense and their ability to finish games. While road struggles will continue to be a factor, the defensive improvements and a year of experience in the Big Ten will help them. While cross town rival UCLA would be thrilled with an 8-4 or 9-3 record, that’s not what USC fans expected when they lured Riley from Oklahoma.
Final Record: 9-3 Losses to: Notre Dame, Oregon, and Penn State Wins over: The rest of the schedule, including Michigan, Nebraska, and a rivalry win over UCLA at home.
Want more Big 10 coverage? Here is a preview of the Big 10 season based on Vegas’ projected win totals. More Big 10 previews: Minnesota, Nebraska, Illinois, Northwestern, Iowa, UCLA and Wisconsin.
