USC Trojans Football Team Ranked 26th in RJ Young's Ultimate 136 College Football Rankings

What's Happening?

The USC Trojans football team has 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 17th last year. The team is led by Lincoln Riley and features standout player Makai Lemon, who recorded significant all-purpose yards last season. The Trojans will face a challenging schedule with Big Ten games against Purdue, Illinois, Nebraska, and Oregon, but will not play against Ohio State, Penn State, or Indiana. The team's performance last year included a notable comeback win against Texas A&M in the Las Vegas Bowl, and they aim to improve upon their 4-5 start from the previous season.

Why It's Important?

The ranking of the USC Trojans at 26th in RJ Young's Ultimate 136 College Football Rankings is significant as it sets expectations for the team's performance in the upcoming season. The Trojans' schedule, which includes travel across two time zones, could impact their performance and potentially cost them games. The ranking also highlights the competitive nature of college football, where teams are constantly evaluated based on their past performances and future potential. For USC, maintaining or improving their ranking could influence recruitment, fan support, and overall team morale.

What's Next?

The USC Trojans will focus on their upcoming games against Big Ten opponents, aiming to leverage their strengths and address weaknesses from last season. The team will need to strategize effectively to navigate their challenging schedule and improve their ranking. Fans and analysts will closely watch the Trojans' performance, particularly the contributions of key players like Makai Lemon and Jayden Maiava. The team's ability to adapt and perform under pressure will be crucial in determining their success this season.

Beyond the Headlines

The ranking and upcoming season for the USC Trojans could have broader implications for college football dynamics, particularly in the Big Ten conference. The team's performance may influence perceptions of the conference's competitiveness and impact media coverage and fan engagement. Additionally, the ranking could affect the Trojans' recruitment efforts, as prospective players often consider a team's standing and potential for success when making decisions.