In the first game of the season, the USC Trojans met the hype in some ways, but their performance on defense did create some huge questions. The talent on this team was evident, but for the Trojans to get to their destination, there needs to be more improvement.
Here is what we learned about the USC Trojans in Week 0:
Lincoln Riley is going to put the ball in everyone's hands
The Trojans' young playmakers each got to touch the ball in Game 1. The majority of the young guys got a great opportunity to build some confidence. 10 different Trojans caught passes. 5 of those Trojans were sophomores or younger and had at least 31 yards receiving on at least 3 catches. The youth movement has been a real thing this year, and so far that youth movement is looking primed to fuel the Trojans' success this season.
It wasn't just the pass game either, as 5 different backs got touches as well. The young guys in the backfield also saw great success. Lincoln Riley doesn't have 2 dominant stars to get the ball to this season. He has multiple guys who can make plays. That fact will help the Trojans' offense be even more lethal than last season.
The run game looked good
Last season, the Trojans' running back room was decimated by injuries. A walk-on at the time, King Miller made sure the Trojans' run game was still a strength. This season, that won't be a problem. The Trojans are deep at the position, and they have versatile players. Game 1 made that evident. The Trojans were exploring that unit, and 5 guys each made an impact in some capacity. 3 different guys found the end zone, while each of the 5 got the opportunity to show off their skill set. The Trojans' running back room will be a huge strength this year.
Offensive line looks solid
The running backs' success would not have been possible if it weren't for the offensive line. The veteran offensive line shined in a big way and created gaping holes all game long. It didn't matter what back was in the game. Each running back had a big hole to get huge yardage. The run game for the Trojans offense looks like a big skill.
The young guys are going to be special
There was a lot of hype going into this game about the Trojans' freshmen. With injuries looming, there were many freshmen who got to see the field. Luke Wafle, Trent Mosley, Tron Baker, and many others all looked very promising. It is a lot of pressure on these freshmen to deliver and lead the Trojans offense to a big year this season. However, every freshman that stepped in the game looked like they were up for the challenge. In the first couple of games, the young guys will have so much confidence. Heading into Week 5, everyone on this team should be locked and loaded vs the Oregon Ducks.
Defense has work to do, pash rush still looks like it needs improvement
If the game were over after the first half, many would be very pleased with Gary Patterson's defense. The Trojans stifled the Spartans in the first half. Then in the second half, it was clear this defense let its foot off the gas. That cannot happen against the Big Ten juggernauts. It will take 4 complete quarters vs Oregon.
The Trojans' pass rush was also disappointing in this game. SJSU's Luke Weaver did get the ball out quickly, but still he did not have much resistance from the Trojans defensive line. 0 sacks in the game is inexcusable versus a lesser opponent. The lack of pressure also shed light on struggles in the back end. For what the Trojans' expectations are this season, 26 points is way too much. The defense, however, showed flashes of potential, especially when all hands are on deck.
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This article originally appeared on Trojans Wire: USC Football met the hype, but struggles were clear vs San Jose State
