
THE TROJANS STILL MATTER: Why USC Football Ignites So Much Passion Across College Football
Locked On USC - Daily Podcast on USC Trojans Football & BasketballShow Notes
The USC Trojans’ shocking loss to Wisconsin sent shockwaves through college football—can Lincoln Riley turn the program around, or is the clock ticking on his tenure? Fans and pundits nationwide weigh in as frustrations mount and tough questions swirl about the team’s direction, physicality, and offensive identity. The conversation focused on USC football’s relevance despite recent struggles, emphasizing Lincoln Riley’s embattled leadership, negative 17-yard rushing performance, and the glaring gap between the program’s illustrious tradition—Heisman winners and “Tailback U” glory—and present woes. Key topics include College GameDay’s absence from USC since 2013, national criticism by figures like Paul Finebaum and Keyshawn Johnson, and a discouraging drop from the AP Top 25. The discussion explored the fanbase’s deep-rooted loyalty, challenges in the run game, and looming questions: Can Riley survive the season, and what has to change for the Trojans to reclaim their championship standard? #USC #USCFootball #APPoll #PennStateFootball #USCTrojans #wisconsinbadgers #ucla #indianahoosiers #JaydenMaiava #LincolnRiley #collegefootball #BigTenfootball #kingmiller #sec #ohiostatefootball
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More from Locked On USC - Daily Podcast on USC Trojans Football & Basketball
USC Trojans hit a new low with a 24-7 loss to Wisconsin, leaving fans questioning if Lincoln Riley is still the right leader for the program. After a bye week and a once-promising win at Penn State, USC stumbled in all aspects—offense, defense, special teams, and coaching—against a less-talented Badgers squad. Riley’s play-calling and lack of offensive creativity, coupled with a nonexistent run game and five sacks allowed, fueled concerns about stagnation in his fifth year. The conversation focused on USC's persistent struggles, from inconsistent performances to wasted recruiting momentum. A key theme that emerged was the growing gap between expectations and results, especially with UCLA soaring and Ohio State looming on the schedule. The discussion explored whether potential wins can truly reset narratives, or if another letdown is inevitable. Can Riley rally the Trojans, or will USC’s high hopes for national prominence yet again be dashed? #USC #USCFootball #APPoll #PennStateFootball #USCTrojans #wisconsinbadgers #ucla #indianahoosiers #JaydenMaiava #LincolnRiley #collegefootball #BigTenfootball #kingmiller #sec #ohiostatefootball
USC’s powerhouse 2026 recruiting class is already making noise—four true freshmen, including Trent Mosley, Mark Bowman, and Luke Wafle, are racking up All-American honors and fueling the Trojans’ push for a playoff spot. Can this youth movement propel USC to historic heights, or will tougher tests await? Marc Kulkin spotlights big breakout moments, explosive stats, and All-American snubs, raising crucial questions about national recognition for rising stars like Kayden Dixon-Wyatt. The spotlight shifts to the dominant USC offensive line, led by Elijah Paige and orchestrated by coach Zach Hanson. With Paige earning midseason first-team All-American status and the entire unit landing on the Joe Moore Award Honor Roll, the Trojans enjoy remarkable protection and run support for Jayden Maiava. Kulkin also tackles the growing chaos of NIL and transfer portal realities, using Oregon State’s Jesse LeGree as a flashpoint—are unchecked player bids changing the face of college football forever? #USC #USCFootball #APPoll #PennStateFootball #USCTrojans #wisconsinbadgers #ucla #indianahoosiers #JaydenMaiava #LincolnRiley #collegefootball #BigTenfootball #kingmiller #sec #ohiostatefootball
UCLA’s playoff surge stuns the Big Ten as Julian Sayin’s injury shakes up the race—could the Bruins overshadow Ohio State and Iowa for a spot in the College Football Playoff?
The USC Trojans gear up for a high-stakes showdown under the lights at Camp Randall—can Jayden Maiava out duel Wisconsin Badgers’ defense and secure a road victory? The conversation spotlights Maiava’s pocket presence, USC’s young receiving corps, and the challenge Sebastian Cheeks poses to USC’s offensive line. Playoff ambitions, defensive battles, and the pressure on head coaches Lincoln Riley and Luke Fickell raise the stakes even further. Marc Kulkin and Ryan Herrings debate whether Wisconsin’s run game can crack USC’s front and if Colton Joseph’s mobility will exploit USC’s weaknesses. Special teams, third-down efficiency, and impact players like Trojans freshman Luke Wafle and Badgers tight end Jacob Harris get key attention. Can the Badgers protect home turf, or will the Trojans’ high-powered offense spoil the party? Don’t miss this packed preview and prediction for one of the Big Ten’s most anticipated matchups. #USC #USCFootball #APPoll #PennStateFootball #USCTrojans #wisconsinbadgers #ucla #indianahoosiers #JaydenMaiava #LincolnRiley #collegefootball #BigTenfootball #kingmiller #sec #ohiostatefootball
The USC Trojans eye a crucial victory as they travel to face Wisconsin, with fans wondering: can Lincoln Riley’s high-powered offense overcome persistent defensive woes? Jayden Maiava, praised for his poise behind one of the nation’s best offensive lines, leads the charge—yet concerns linger over USC’s ability to stop opponents, as national championship-caliber defense remains elusive. Marc Kulkin and Marvin Powell III break down key matchups, including how USC’s run game and pass attack stacks up against Wisconsin’s stout defense. Insights on Gary Patterson’s defensive scheme, the evolution of NIL-driven recruiting, and the impact of player development under coach Zach Hansen fuel debate. Plus, the duo explores the potential trap-game danger, weighs playoff implications, and debates whether the expanded 24-team playoff format will bring real contenders or just more chaos to college football’s postseason. #USC #USCFootball #APPoll #PennStateFootball #USCTrojans #wisconsinbadgers #ucla #indianahoosiers #JaydenMaiava #LincolnRiley #collegefootball #BigTenfootball #kingmiller #sec #ohiostatefootball