What's Happening?
The USC Trojans have been ranked 26th in RJ Young's Ultimate 136 college football rankings for the 2025 season. This ranking reflects a drop from their previous position at 17. The Trojans' top player, wide receiver Makai Lemon, has been highlighted for his impressive performance, recording 764 receiving yards and 514 kick return yards last season. The team, led by coach Lincoln Riley, returns quarterback Jayden Maiava, who showed promise with 1,201 passing yards and 11 touchdowns in four games last year. Despite a challenging start last season, the Trojans are expected to face a less daunting schedule this year, avoiding matchups with Ohio State, Penn State, and Indiana. However, they will travel to Purdue, Illinois, Nebraska, and Oregon for Big Ten games, which could pose challenges due to time zone differences.
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Why It's Important?
The ranking and analysis of the USC Trojans are significant as they provide insights into the team's potential performance in the upcoming season. The Trojans' ability to improve upon last year's performance could impact their standing in the Big Ten and their chances of making it to the College Football Playoff. The focus on key players like Makai Lemon and Jayden Maiava highlights the team's strengths and areas for potential growth. The schedule's relative ease compared to last year offers an opportunity for the Trojans to capitalize on their strengths and improve their win-loss record. This ranking also influences betting odds and fan expectations, with the Trojans' win total odds set at over 7.5.
What's Next?
The USC Trojans will need to navigate their Big Ten schedule carefully, particularly the away games that involve significant travel. The team's performance in these games will be crucial in determining their final ranking and potential playoff contention. Coach Lincoln Riley and his staff will focus on leveraging the talents of key players like Makai Lemon and Jayden Maiava to secure victories. Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see if the Trojans can exceed expectations and improve upon their previous season's performance.
