UPDATE: USC football capped off its regular season with a decisive 29-10 victory over UCLA on Saturday, solidifying its position as a contender in college football’s shifting landscape. Head coach Lincoln Riley emphasized the importance of this season as a foundation for future success, telling players it’s time to “pave the road” ahead.
The Trojans, finishing with a record of 9-3, are reflecting on their journey while looking toward the future. Quarterback Jayden Maiava captured the sentiment succinctly: “We still ain’t (expletive).” The message resonates deeply among players as they embrace the significance of their accomplishments, including a successful run in the Big Ten.
The atmosphere at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum was electric, with an attendance of 69,614 fans—the second-highest home turnout this season. The Trojans have made their mark with substantial victories, including wins over notable Big Ten rivals such as Illinois, Michigan, Nebraska, and Iowa.
Before the game, approximately 30 players participated in the Senior Day ceremony, highlighting the team’s commitment to both present and future endeavors. Players like linebacker Eric Gentry, who is moving on due to eligibility constraints, shared his insights post-game, stating, “This has been a very, very important year.” Gentry’s performance included five tackles and a notable pass breakup, solidifying his status as a standout player.
While some players are contemplating their professional futures—such as junior receivers Ja’Kobi Lane and Makai Lemon—Maiava remains focused solely on enjoying his team’s recent success. He stated, “I’m focused on enjoying this win with my loved ones and my teammates.”
Riley expressed optimism for the program’s future, noting, “We’ll have better teams here in the future than this team. But I don’t know if we’ll have had a more important team.” His comments reflect a broader vision for a program that is aiming for sustained excellence.
As USC prepares for the upcoming offseason, the emphasis on unity and brotherhood has been a recurring theme. Players have adopted matching warm-ups to signify their solidarity, a testament to their collective goal of building a championship-caliber team.
WHAT’S NEXT: As the Trojans look ahead, the focus will shift toward recruitment and preparation for next season. Fans and analysts alike will be closely watching how USC builds on this year’s experiences, aiming for a return to College Football Playoff discussions.
The excitement surrounding USC football is palpable, and with a strong foundation established this season, the Trojans are poised to make significant strides in the coming years. As the college football landscape continues to evolve, USC is determined to remain at the forefront of the competition.
