USC and Nike agree to extend apparel deal for 10 years
Ryan Kartje (LA Times) — The Swoosh is staying at USC for the foreseeable future. USC and Nike agreed this week to a 10-year extension of their all-sports apparel deal through 2036, the school announced on Tuesday.
Their huge partnership alliance was already among the longest-running apparel deals in college athletics. Now it’s ensured to carry into its fifth decade.
“USC and Nike have grown together for more than 30 years,” athletic director Jennifer Cohen said, “and we are thrilled to continue one of the great partnerships in college athletics. From the outset, these two iconic brands have made history, outfitted legends, and powered victories for generations of Trojan student-athletes, and for all we have accomplished together already, we are all the more excited for what’s to come.”
At the time that USC first signed exclusively with Nike, such corporate sponsorships were a relatively new revenue stream for the school. Now, in the revenue-sharing era, they’ve become a ubiquitous — and essential — part of operating an athletic department.
This new deal should look a bit different than the last few times that USC extended their apparel deal with Nike. For one, it includes an NIL component, with select top-tier Trojan athletes slated to score their own NIL deals with Nike. What’s new is that USC is joining Nike’s Blue Ribbon Elite program. But USC has already been an incubator for Nike talent.
Just the women’s basketball team alone has JuJu Watkins, Jazzy Davidson, and Saniyah Hall. Watkins and Davidson’s player-exclusive Nike sneakers remain uninterrupted. USC’s exclusive Blue Ribbon Elite class of athletes will be announced in the coming weeks.
As part of the extension, USC’s new Bloom Football Performance Center will become the first facility in the nation fully outfitted with Nike strength equipment.
As an added benefit, Nike also agreed to design “custom uniform collections” for the USC men’s and women’s basketball programs and to renovate the USC Bookstore with updated Nike merchandise.
The financial terms of the deal were not disclosed, but it is easy to understand why Nike continues to invest heavily in USC Athletics. USC has won 139 team national championships, produced countless iconic athletes, and is supported by an amazing amount of celebrities in the entertainment capital of the world. Partnering with USC is just good business.
Other Big Ten schools signed with Nike signed during a stretch between 2015 and 2016 that became an apparel arms race around college football. Ohio State signed a 15-year, $252-million deal with Nike in 2016, while Michigan inked an 11-year, $174-million deal with Nike and Jordan Brand.
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RB Waymond Jordan Jr. just signed an NIL deal with Nike This marks one of the first premier athlete activations of USC’s new, 10-year apparel extension with the huge sportswear brand, which features a unique NIL access point for some top-tier Trojan athletes, like JuJu Watkins and Mark Bowman. Look for Jordan (5-10, 215, Pensacola Escambia, Hutchinson CC) to be featured in commercials, digital campaigns, and on billboards across the L.A. market. This deal signals Nike’s complete corporate confidence in Jordan’s full physical recovery from the severe ankle injury he suffered against MICH, cutting short his season at only six… Read more »
I’m so behind that. Come on Lincoln. Do we need to beg? Haven’t enough stars aligned after all this time to show you the Air Raid is a complete loser without the willingness and ability to punch your lights out on the ground when necessary!
I’am sure you remember the details because I don’t (I looked for my car in the grocery store lot for 15 minutes yesterday)…..there were several games during CPC’s big run, against a lesser team, when he had folks like Bush and Leinart…..the game was starting to slip…….and all of a sudden in the last few drives……we did not pass the ball……it was pound and pound and pound with very little attempt to disguise it. At the time our OL might have been better than most NFL teams. We’d win by a score or two and go home happy. We don’t… Read more »
Allen, I don’t know if you were a Trojan Knight, but I remember we had to name every building on an unlabeled map of the campus as part of the requirements to be considered for membership.
The map I memorized in ‘77 or ‘78 certainly would be very inadequate today. The amount of new buildings is amazing.
Those straw hats were very cool and I kept mine for about 20 years before it collected too much dust for me to keep track of. Now of course, it would make a very nice keepsake along with some other irreplaceables.
Business titan files bombshell lawsuit against USC over football field ‘humiliation’ Edward Lewis (California Post) — Brian Kennedy, the founder of renowned Southern California billboard company Regency Outdoor Advertising, is suing USC, alleging recent school construction (Bloom Football Performance Center) has caused him “reputational harm,” “embarrassment” and “humiliation.” Kennedy described himself in the lawsuit, which was obtained by The California Post Wednesday, as a mega Trojans booster who has contributed over $4 million to USC all while helping build the school’s Galen Center and playing a role in the return of Reggie Bush’s Heisman Trophy. However, he said in… Read more »
Not that much apparently, since he’s suing now. Great timing, just as USC gets ready to open Bloom. I trust Jen Cohen’s decisions on how to handle these matters.
I like Golden Trojan’s suggestion: How about a plaque on the ground out front of Bloom, “Here Lies The Former Brian Kennedy Practice Field”!
LOL……I really don’t think that will do it…..but who knows. Some folks contribute out of heart or just wanting to help/share….this fellow sounds like a guy that is looking for a splash. A grave…..does not sound like something he might appreciate. Putting in something tasteful over by the new Lucas where everybody would see it……not athletic…..but…..everybody will see your name. Again, too bad it happened….I see his point but a little communication and a bone would probably have gone a long way to putting this to rest.
We actually have no idea what Kennedy was truly demanding behind the scenes from USC. The USC powers-that-be obviously concluded they didn’t want to play ball any longer and I’m sure they had their reasons, both legal and otherwise, good or bad. In the end, it’s all dust in the wind, as is the relationship between Kennedy and USC. I’d like to know how the juicy legal stuff proceeds from here now that negotiations totally broke down and it’s in court. Big money, big egos, big names, big brands, big decisions, big fallouts. Kennedy’s been upset ever since USC refused… Read more »
USC, like most private schools is heavily dependent on keeping the donation faucet opened full blast. It’s also a “what have you done for me lately” institution, much like a greedy trophy wife. My family name is all over the campus (not at the named building level, but definitely at the 6 or 7 figure level) and now at the remodeled Coli. One of the big doorways that runs from the VIP area under the new press box to the choice spacious seats at the 50 yard line is named for my mom and dad. It also allowed him to… Read more »
Well said and congrats to your family for your heavy USC support! I fail to see how Brian Kennedy has been “humiliated” in any way. Naming rights don’t exist forever in my mind as the world goes on and on and on and on… USC probably hit Kennedy up for more money to extend their naming association in view of ever expanding developments and the party came to an end. I think Kennedy already received more than enough recog and name adulation and got butt hurt over being dropped from the king of the hill list. I expect a relatively… Read more »
I would like to know what USC has offered him. How about a plaque on the ground out front of Bloom, “Here Lies The Former Brian Kennedy Practice Field”! And there are plenty of opportunities for him to get his name somewhere in the facility starting with the Offensive or Defensive coaches offices for $250,000 up to the Turf Practice Field for $15 million! Another planet from where I live. 🤑 https://trojanathleticfund.com/sports/2026/3/27/usc-football-bloom-performance-center-naming-opportunities.aspx
Big Ten College Football Hot Seat: The coaches feeling the pressure heading into 2026 season — (Andy Staples/on3.com) Luke Fickell, Wisconsin (Oct. 24 vs USC in Madison) Buyout after 2026 season: $19.2 million (1/4 of a Jimbo) This is the opposite of Mike Norvell’s situation at Florida State. In deciding to keep Luke Fickell at the end of last season, Wisconsin officials acknowledged that their inability to raise money for the roster in the pre-revenue share NIL era severely handicapped Fickell’s chances to succeed. Then-athletic director Chris McIntosh, who has since moved on to the Big Ten office, said… Read more »
Advanced apologies if this was mentioned earlier, but Phil Steele a few days ago ranked USC’s O-line #5 in the nation. All returners I get it. Last year was not stellar for the line, but returning with that much experience is a difference maker. Will we think out of the box and establish a power based offense, not changing course should a running play only yield two yards?
Top Defensive Lines per Steele — USC is ranked #16 in the country. No. 1 Ohio State: Bucknuts highlights the unit as the country’s best with elite depth in the trenches. No. 2 Oregon: Anchors the top tier of Big Ten defensive fronts. No. 3 Oklahoma: Features key returners like defensive lineman David Stone. No. 4 Texas: Ranks high heading into a challenging 2026 schedule. No. 5 Notre Dame: Maintains a powerhouse presence up front. No. 6 Miami (FL): Noted as one of the ACC’s elite units. No. 7 Michigan: Boosted by major portal addition and former Utah standout John… Read more »
16?!!!! I can’t believe there is 15 teams better than us. You have Kam Crawford. I think he’s ready for a breakout season. The talent is definitely there. Braylan Shelby is talented with 2 years experience. Jahkeem Stewart had an outstanding season last year playing with a fractured leg. He didn’t even practice during the week. Definitely a possible 1st round pick. Got a very high upside with a lot more he can learn. He still should be in high school. Only played 2 years of high school ball. Jidi Abasiri is another one that has pro potential. Floyd Boucard… Read more »
But Steele did rate the O-Line #5(knowing LR is the coach) and I personally think(JMHO) that this D-Line is just as talented as the O-Line. That D-Line is loaded.
LR has a rep as a horrible defensive coach. That spills over to the team, regardless of Gary Patterson, who was fired from TCU on Oct. 31, 2021 with a 3-5 record, and has been only an analyst or totally out of the game until now. Some Trojan fans just assume he’ll be an instant amazing success despite not coaching for four years. Others aren’t so sure, but I’d say he should get the benefit of the doubt. LR’s known as a play caller who scores points, but has had a very hard time changing USC’s culture. His ignorance of… Read more »
I predicted that LR had 2 more years to prove himself and that was it. I’m not so sure anymore. I’m beginning to think that they will give him more than 2. This 2026 team is the 6th youngest team in the nation according to Rotowire.com (https://www.rotowire.com/cfootball/article/college-football-team-average-age-122046) …..actually 2nd youngest if you are just talking about the blue bloods. Yet I picked them to go 10-2. I’m sticking by that simply because they have exploding talent(and also because they are stacked on the O and D lines and that’s where you win football games). Even if their O and D… Read more »
Obviously if LR goes 20-4 in two reg seasons straight and makes the playoffs twice he won’t be fired. He’d probably get a raise and an extension if he actually did that.
He’s got a 15-20% of reaching that level of play per the odds.
OHIO ST, ORE, IU, UW and PSU will likely tell the tale for USC’s Odyssey-like voyage through the 2026 season.
But the Cyclops didn’t do so well in Christopher Nolan’s 3-hour battle. The Trojan Horse itself was amazing.
If he goes 10-2 this year and 10-2 next year……even I…..the original critic of Riley…..will call for his retention…..but no ten year contract…..a three year would work with huge incentives. He’ll probably go pro anyway…..which may be where he fits better. As for 27…..I agree…..experience counts for a lot and some of our elite talent coming in this year may need one year to season. Gotta bet that with our roster next year (assuming we don’t lose much and gain some from the portal) a top notch experienced QB might view us as a positive chance to make the NFL,… Read more »
With NIL and the Portal, it’s hard to ever “assume” who will stay with your team for one year to the next. I’ve given up on even trying to predict that. It seems like striking when the iron’s hot is the only way to go.
Look at USC baseball in terms of changes in both the coaching and player ranks. Next season will be like a totally different club.
People unpredictably come and go for dozens of reasons. You can really only count on what you have now in this volatile environment. I’m interested in 2026. Many other important events will happen between now and 2027 making it pure speculation on the team’s roster, even its staff two seasons away.
2027 should be a great year. I’m really impressed when I look at the films of this new QB that we have(I think he’s from Illinois). We should have dynamite talent and tons of on the field experience. Plus the schedule doesn’t seem to be that tough……the toughest being OSU(there) and Indiana(here). But I still think we go 10-2 in 2026. This team is talented.
Yes, Jonas was the player of the year in 2025 in Illinois. The talent should be equal to the elite teams…..I’ve not be able to say that for a long time. Still a bit light on experience but in these portal days…..as Allen states so well……you got to strike while you’ve got them. The days of elite seniors across the board is probably leaving with an old guy like me. Don’t know the schedule yet but your guesses are good ones. There are only six real slots considering the three OOC crap and UCLA, Oregon and Washington seem to be… Read more »
He is a bit light on experience but hopefully he will get some experience this year. I’ve seen a lot of films on this guy and he can run. You have to watch a lot of film to see that because he stays in the pocket(which LR wants him to do) and only scrambles when he is about to get sacked. But when he does scramble he can run like a deer. I think this kid will be special although I admit it’s a little early to say that. But remember, we didn’t just get this kid out of high… Read more »
I have to hand it to Patterson no matter how it turns out. He knew what we needed…….he went out and got a good experienced run plug that was available with VanSumeren and then got a guy that has explosion with Fisher. VanSumeren may not scare the QB much but his hole is not going to be wide open. Fisher will be greeting the QB, given an opening, by the time the QB starts his check off.
Is it enough, I don’t know, but it’s a good start.
Portal transfers to USC have been a very mixed bag. Frankly, I haven’t the faintest idea if these new DL transfers will work out. I’m not sure the coaches do either.
That’s part of the fun of this time of year. We’re undefeated!
Alex VanSumeren, 6-2, 295
VanSumeren will be at Big Ten Media Days along with Jayden Maiava and DL Jide Abasiri.
For 2-years, Curt Cignetti has shown a very successful guideline on who to seek in the Portal. He has not been shy to share his thoughts about this. For most HC’s who are or have struggled to rebuild their programs, Cignetti has been a thorn in their side making them look somewhat clueless in this regard, and Riley has actually set the USC football program back 2-3 seasons being a poor judge of talent where it was needed most. I am hoping Chad Bowden has made the moves necessary to deal with this lack of knoledge that will give USC… Read more »
I also am voting against Riley for the reasons you state, Allen.
I also am not feeling the positive vibes about Maieva. I don’t see him as one of the top ten QBs in the nation. Riley’s teams only succeed when he has an All-American level QB. I just don’t see Jayden coming near to that level of play.
I think we’re a Top 10 D Line in the country. You really can’t rate D Lines till they actually play but our talent levels are the best we’ve had in years.
Sounds good to me. Here’s JuJu Watkins’ approach to the 2026 season after missing a year with a torn right ACL. Hopefully USC’s football players are on the same page.
“Just discipline,” Watkins said of what USC women’s basketball needs this season. “Just attacking every day like there’s no tomorrow. I think it’s really essential that we do that. It’s my senior year. So super excited for that and not taking any moment for granted.”
It’s going to be great having Juju back on the court this season. Pair her with Kennedy Smith, Jazzy Davidson and the other players we’re bringing in and we should be a Top 25 team.
I think 9-3 sounds about right. I do believe this is Riley’s best team, and I am confident about GP’s ability to get the most out of this defense. I love Coach Ekeler.But the schedule is brutal, especially the 3 game stretch of Oregon/UDUB/PSU. And I still have concerns about Riley. I am not a playoff or Riley has to go subscriber, but this team has to at least look the part. We won’t know much until Oregon. If they rush for 350 yards, and on 4th and one we have to run a trick play,nothing has changed.
“If they rush for 350 yards, and on 4th and one we have to run a trick play, nothing has changed.” You can say that again. A little trip down memory lane. You reminded me of this little jet sweep misdirection doozy last season in the rain vs Notre Dame in South Bend on Oct. 18 when 5-1 USC was coming off a big 31-13 win over MICH in the Coliseum. There was 11:11 remaining in the fourth quarter. We trailed 27-24. The Irish weren’t playing very well at home. We had a real shot to win with the ball… Read more »
Wanted to try it. I did my best to watch the entire game.
]I guess if you live in a country with very little public wealth all you need to an open field and a ball. So I understand and hope they continue to enjoy the sport.
There is a bit of tension when the ball is being readied for centering in front of the goal.
If I were them I’d add a free kick at the end of each quarter…..and I’d go to quarters.
I say 10-2 even though they will have a tough schedule. A lot will depend on whether GP actually turns this defense around as everyone is expecting. I think that the offense will be great. Maiava is more than what is necessary to lead a high powered offense even if he doesn’t win a Heisman. At running back we have 2 outstanding RB’s in Miller and Jordan but I’m really impressed with Redeaux. He reminds me a lot of Quintin Joiner. The O-Line should be great. All the starters are back. Justin Tauanuu is outstanding. He may start the season… Read more »
Obviously the pros are going with 9-3…..the three against the BIG three.
I’am at 8-4. We hopefully beat everybody that we should. Split the Penn St and Washington games…..lose against the BIG three.
I’am hoping we beat one of the BIG three (Ohio State) and make the playoffs at 9-3..
With no Riley and a capable coach ……10-2. So if my favorite moron grows up it’s possible…but….you said no hedge.
8-4.
Why not? Sure you can 007. 10-2 is possible. We’ve just been burned so much lately that it’s tough to go with that. But I give USC a 25% chance for that, especially if we start winning the all-important turnover battle again and most of our questions are resolved in our favor. My problem for now is, I just have too many of those questions.
I think 2026 will be a revealing season. At the end of this season I think I will either be saying that all of you guys who have knocked LR were right and I have been drinking the kool-aide for the last 5 years or maybe this guy LR is really slowly evolving into an outstanding coach. I think the offense will be great. A lot will depend on the defense. D’Anton Lynn was an improvement over Grinch(which isn’t saying much) but still not the kind of defenses that we need to win championships. Defenses win championships much more than… Read more »
I think all of us guys who have knocked LR much of the time have already been proven right. By a mile. LR has absolutely stunk too much of the time and many of his most critical decisions in program staffing, planning, installing, executing, recruiting, and during game time have been ridiculously dumb. It’s always been expected that LR would improve. Most would, especially at a program like heavyweight USC and in view of his undeserved massive salary. We all just didn’t originally know that LR didn’t have a clue about how to quickly resurrect USC. He’d never built anything… Read more »
I’m still not convinced. Like I said, the 2026 season will tell me a lot more…..especially the Oregon game. There is no reason that we should lose that game….not with the talent we have this year especially playing at the Coliseum. JMHO….we’ll see.
As I’ve said, I’m going with 9-3. Thank you illinoisusc and 007 for not hedging. I actually think we will win one of three between ORE, OHIO ST and IU, but will drop one of the others. For instance, UCLA will be much harder to beat, and they were handling us last time at half with a bad team. UW’s always a threat and with PSU and WIS so far away east, either could obviously turn into a “Tesla on fire.” Our defense has to prove it on the field before I’m all in on that. Jayden Maiava has to… Read more »
Allen you and I are on the same page. I think there is a good chance they squeak one out against Oregon, that carries them over Udub. The long trip to Happy Valley will not end happy. They regroup for Wisconsin after the bye. Ohio St is too much. Indiana after a bye on the road, hard to pick at this point. We will know by Halloween what both teams are made of. UCLA may be a must win to make the playoffs and The Ruins may just spoil the party. After the first 3 this is an exciting schedule… Read more »
If USC beats Oregon or Ohio State and ends 9-3…….there should be a demand for a slot in the playoffs for us. We would look no worse than Alabama last year. This assumes Penn St, with its minor league schedule and Washington trip along the way. Of course I’am being a bit of a homer….but I truly believe we may have a good case. The other problem is that aside from BIG membership USC seems to get treated poorly by the east of the Rockies crowd regularly. Hopefully if we get rolling they will not have decisions to make about… Read more »
The vast majority of non-ALA fans felt that ‘Bama did not deserve to make the 2025 playoff field. Their selection over 10-2 ND sparked massive nationwide criticism and heavy backlash regarding perceived “SEC bias.” I would say that the Irish definitely got screwed last season. JMHO. While ALA temporarily quieted critics by winning their first-round game against OU (34-24 in Norman), the public outrage returned on New Year’s Day when ALA was humiliated 38-3 by IU in the Rose Bowl quarterfinal, which many opposing fans and sports media outlets cited as ultimate proof that the committee made the wrong decision… Read more »
Well…..the SEC must own the committee to have all those teams in and the BIG having two teams in the semifinals. This illusion of power with their middle teams is questionable. They went 4-10 last year and 8-7 the prior year in bowl season.
It’s time for the BIG to take a minimum of 4 plus teams given the power of the conference. Several here have indicated the conference is becoming very strong in the middle.
Let’s do it!
Most everyone counts USC as an auto-victory in Madison vs the Badgers on Oct. 24 after a Trojan bye week. If we lose to the Badgers, pretty much a mid-B1G team, I assume it’ll be another no-playoff year for the Trojans.
ILL somehow lost to WIS last season in Madison and it wasn’t close: 27-10. What the heck happened? Was this just a fluke? WIS was just 4-8 last season.
Madison is a great college town where winning away can be tough. What should USC be worried the most about when it takes on the Badgers, besides location?
This Wisconsin team might be deceptive. Not saying they will beat USC, but who knows. Last year they played one of the toughest schedules in the country…….but managed to beat Washington and Illinois at home. They played, Ohio State, Alabama, Michigan, Iowa, Oregon, Washington, Indiana, Illinois and Minn. Their OL and DL are both back to being Wisconsin heavy. Several years of smaller is over. The beef is back is Madison! Their TE’s add to the heavy nature of the running attack. Starter is 270 pounds. RB looks above average…..and behind that line…… They finally have an average QB. If… Read more »
Well…..does this sound familiar. Fickell came to Wisconsin loving the air raid. Like most coaches that believe in a system that don’t work in the BIG without a running game……it takes time to fix your mistake. Even after you fail, you probably have not recruited the linemen it takes to run. As you know it takes several years to get most heavies up to speed unlike a WR that may sometimes play season 1. So he is in season 4. He threw the first two away with an air raid approach. Season 3 was a schedule from hell compounded with… Read more »
Equally as bad as ND out and Ala in, was bringing in both Tulane and James Madison. Really, one of those two were better than ND? One token Group of 6 team is more than enough, though one year one of them will surprise us.
Lindy’s on WIS (#53 in country) Primary strengths — Between QB Colton Joseph’s legs, four promising tailbacks and a rebuilt offensive line, this should be a strong running team. The ILB duo of Mason Posa and Cooper Catalano is one of the best in the conference. The secondary is now longer and faster as well. Potential problems — There’s a lot of projection at almost every position. How will G6 and/or FCS players translate to the B1G? Is there a true number one receiver on the roster? How about a pure pass rusher? Through it all, pressure is on Fickell… Read more »
Now that money is openly changing hands between college players and alumni, and with betting student athletes being outed, how long before college football is just a minor league for the NFL? I know this subject has been bouncing around for a few years, but it’s starting to look more and more like a mere formality. A matter of days ago people were up in arms over President Trump asking for a review of penalty in the World Cup. So, both sides of the argument were being hashed about and the question of presidential interference in sports came up. Was… Read more »
There seems to be this growing myth that college football players are all professional athletes making millions. According to Deseret News, a 2025 report by Opendorse, predicts college football players will make a combined $2.4 billion in total compensation in 2026. That’s a big number. However, the 7000 Power 4 football players’ annual earnings breaks down like this: .3% more than a million dollars .6% from $999,000 to $500,000 9.1% from $499,000 to $100,000 7.4% from $99,000 to $50,000 16.1% from $49,000 to $10,000 66.5% less than $10,000 So only 10% are making a really nice living and may or… Read more »
History was made today. Monshun Sales is the first 5 star recruit to ever sign with Indiana football.
Cignetti is thrilled…..he can finally field a good team if he gets a few more top notch recruits. The next target is to improve the 100 year old stadium and who knows…..maybe they might get rid of the snow and ice. Then…..and only then….should anyone hold him responsible for his record. 😂
An optimistic prediction by Brad Crawford CBS. If USC takes a big step up it may happen. If USC is 9-3, 4th place in the BIG, do they make the playoffs? Texas was #13 with 3 loses last year. Alabama got in with 3 loses but one was the SEC CCG. I can just see it, USC ranked #10 or 11 and gets bumped by ND and 2 Group of 6 teams.
I really think either Oregon or Ohio State could turn into wins since those games are at the Coli. Ohio State will have to travel across the country and could struggle with the time change.
I see 9-3 as an objective. Hoping to knock off Ohio State but a loss to somebody like Wisconsin might be in the cards. To hope for 10-2……we don’t have the coach or the roster.
Well thanks for your view…..Of course I have no idea which of our lesser opponents might beat us……it certainly will not be the Wisconsin team from last year who played one of the toughest schedules I’ve ever seen. WI has improved this year and may actually have a chance to win 8 or more games. As we all know…..until he performs…..Riley on the road back east is definitely worth 7 plus points to anyone we go against. Penn St is the game I’am focused on as a tripper. We have the better roster but it should be a white out… Read more »
USC should take care of the first 3 maybe being push for the first half of the game. Till Riley proves he can travel and win all the away games are traps. Even Rutgers, going to the ET zone. Riley managed to lose to a terrible Maryland in ’24 and Illinois last year. USC and Riley will have to play their best to beat Penn St in Happy Valley. Hard for me to know if Indiana will be as good as last year.
If Riley can beat Rutgers, Penn St, Wisconsin and Indiana…..the man will finally be due some admiration from USC fans. We’ll see.
I’am not giving him an impossible goal…..none of those four are the Crown Jewels of the BIG.
I think Indiana will be outstanding. Last year wasn’t a fluke. He’s been at Indiana 2 years, not one, and he’s 27-2 in those 2 years. I’m not saying he’ll win the NC but I expect them to be outstanding. Plus they don’t have a hard schedule.In the strength of schedule rankings they are rated 50th in the nation.
IU will probably be just fine. Not undefeated, or probable repeat national champ, but seriously well put together, dangerous, and coached by the man who can embarrass anyone. The Hoosiers will run over MINN at home on Oct. 31. Then Cignetti’s troops get a bye on Nov. 7 to rest up and prepare for USC on Nov. 14. USC also gets a week off before taking on the Hoosiers in Bloomington after hosting the Buckeyes on Oct. 31. I have a hard time believing USC will beat IU with their great coach, amazing culture and home field advantage. But if… Read more »
You are right no doubt Indiana will very good and tough to beat at home. Is Cignetti the strongest branch of the Nick Saban coaching tree? Here’s my ranking, with Kiffin on the rise:
But I do think Fickell is a good coach and this year he has his back against the wall. The seat is really hot. I don’t think the Badgers will make the playoffs but they probably will have an outstanding team….good enough to surprise the Trojans under the right conditions.
I am agreeing with you Illinois. I think Riley will need another year to make it into the playoff. That is if he survives missing it again this season. Too many question marks about Jayden overcoming OSU-Oregon-at Indiana with only 1-returning WR to throw to. I think our defense will improve. But improve enough to severely limit the scoring of those top teams will be a big challenge. Riley is no Cignetti and program hasn’t developed his players into a top defense like those top teams have these past 2-3 years. Changing DC’s too often just limits a cohesive unti… Read more »
Jam……hopefully Coach P will cover up some of the Riley troubles but as you point out….the first year of a new system….. don’t feel confident.
As for him at Oklahoma……I don’t know enough to discuss…..I do know that Cignetti uses a bit of the spread in his program……the difference being that Cignetti put huge importance on OL recruiting and development from the day he arrived at Indiana……unfortunately for Riley he left his secret winning weapon at Oklahoma…..Bill Bedenbaugh…..been wandering around ever since.
Riley didn’t have a clue what he was doing when he came to USC.
Thankfully, Caleb Williams Pied Pipered his way to Trojan Land and hid a lot of USC problems with his spectacular Heisman-winning play.
But it all caved in during LR’s second year and we got a real sniff of his deficiencies and mind-numbingly inefficient, lame approach to winning games against good competition.
Hopefully, Lincoln has learned a lot and grown from his mistakes. I can’t help but think that he has. Fight On! ✌
It’s a good thing the deal went through because I didn’t want to see someone deleting the swoosh from the McKay statue. I hope the NIL part of the deal gets past the NCAA (Ninnies, Clowns And A@@holes)
Ryan Kartje (LA Times) — The Swoosh is staying at USC for the foreseeable future. USC and Nike agreed this week to a 10-year extension of their all-sports apparel deal through 2036, the school announced on Tuesday.
“USC and Nike have grown together for more than 30 years,” athletic director Jennifer Cohen said, “and we are thrilled to continue one of the great partnerships in college athletics. From the outset, these two iconic brands have made history, outfitted legends, and powered victories for generations of Trojan student-athletes, and for all we have accomplished together already, we are all the more excited for what’s to come.”
The financial terms of the deal were not disclosed, but it is easy to understand why Nike continues to invest heavily in USC Athletics. USC has won 139 team national championships, produced countless iconic athletes, and is supported by an amazing amount of celebrities in the entertainment capital of the world. Partnering with USC is just good business.
RB Waymond Jordan Jr. just signed an NIL deal with Nike This marks one of the first premier athlete activations of USC’s new, 10-year apparel extension with the huge sportswear brand, which features a unique NIL access point for some top-tier Trojan athletes, like JuJu Watkins and Mark Bowman. Look for Jordan (5-10, 215, Pensacola Escambia, Hutchinson CC) to be featured in commercials, digital campaigns, and on billboards across the L.A. market. This deal signals Nike’s complete corporate confidence in Jordan’s full physical recovery from the severe ankle injury he suffered against MICH, cutting short his season at only six… Read more »
Our new slogan……RUN THE DAMN BALL!
I’m so behind that. Come on Lincoln. Do we need to beg? Haven’t enough stars aligned after all this time to show you the Air Raid is a complete loser without the willingness and ability to punch your lights out on the ground when necessary!
I’am sure you remember the details because I don’t (I looked for my car in the grocery store lot for 15 minutes yesterday)…..there were several games during CPC’s big run, against a lesser team, when he had folks like Bush and Leinart…..the game was starting to slip…….and all of a sudden in the last few drives……we did not pass the ball……it was pound and pound and pound with very little attempt to disguise it. At the time our OL might have been better than most NFL teams. We’d win by a score or two and go home happy. We don’t… Read more »
The Old Days …
Allen, I don’t know if you were a Trojan Knight, but I remember we had to name every building on an unlabeled map of the campus as part of the requirements to be considered for membership.
The map I memorized in ‘77 or ‘78 certainly would be very inadequate today. The amount of new buildings is amazing.
I was a Knight and I remember that test, which included various other obscure Trojan facts. Good times for sure!
I still have my straw hat. All of the ticket stubs make it a wearable time capsule
Those straw hats were very cool and I kept mine for about 20 years before it collected too much dust for me to keep track of. Now of course, it would make a very nice keepsake along with some other irreplaceables.
Business titan files bombshell lawsuit against USC over football field ‘humiliation’ Edward Lewis (California Post) — Brian Kennedy, the founder of renowned Southern California billboard company Regency Outdoor Advertising, is suing USC, alleging recent school construction (Bloom Football Performance Center) has caused him “reputational harm,” “embarrassment” and “humiliation.” Kennedy described himself in the lawsuit, which was obtained by The California Post Wednesday, as a mega Trojans booster who has contributed over $4 million to USC all while helping build the school’s Galen Center and playing a role in the return of Reggie Bush’s Heisman Trophy. However, he said in… Read more »
Sounds like someone dropped the ball with communicating and working out the changes. Empathy in the US world is getting rare.
This should be an interesting case to follow. I don’t see how Kennedy furthered his cause any by publicly referring to USC as “dogs-t”. 😂
Yes……….He probably regrets the out burst.
Not that much apparently, since he’s suing now. Great timing, just as USC gets ready to open Bloom. I trust Jen Cohen’s decisions on how to handle these matters.
I like Golden Trojan’s suggestion: How about a plaque on the ground out front of Bloom, “Here Lies The Former Brian Kennedy Practice Field”!
LOL……I really don’t think that will do it…..but who knows. Some folks contribute out of heart or just wanting to help/share….this fellow sounds like a guy that is looking for a splash. A grave…..does not sound like something he might appreciate. Putting in something tasteful over by the new Lucas where everybody would see it……not athletic…..but…..everybody will see your name. Again, too bad it happened….I see his point but a little communication and a bone would probably have gone a long way to putting this to rest.
It’s a joke.
The comments yes, the lawsuit no.
We actually have no idea what Kennedy was truly demanding behind the scenes from USC. The USC powers-that-be obviously concluded they didn’t want to play ball any longer and I’m sure they had their reasons, both legal and otherwise, good or bad. In the end, it’s all dust in the wind, as is the relationship between Kennedy and USC. I’d like to know how the juicy legal stuff proceeds from here now that negotiations totally broke down and it’s in court. Big money, big egos, big names, big brands, big decisions, big fallouts. Kennedy’s been upset ever since USC refused… Read more »
USC, like most private schools is heavily dependent on keeping the donation faucet opened full blast. It’s also a “what have you done for me lately” institution, much like a greedy trophy wife. My family name is all over the campus (not at the named building level, but definitely at the 6 or 7 figure level) and now at the remodeled Coli. One of the big doorways that runs from the VIP area under the new press box to the choice spacious seats at the 50 yard line is named for my mom and dad. It also allowed him to… Read more »
Well said and congrats to your family for your heavy USC support! I fail to see how Brian Kennedy has been “humiliated” in any way. Naming rights don’t exist forever in my mind as the world goes on and on and on and on… USC probably hit Kennedy up for more money to extend their naming association in view of ever expanding developments and the party came to an end. I think Kennedy already received more than enough recog and name adulation and got butt hurt over being dropped from the king of the hill list. I expect a relatively… Read more »
I would like to know what USC has offered him. How about a plaque on the ground out front of Bloom, “Here Lies The Former Brian Kennedy Practice Field”! And there are plenty of opportunities for him to get his name somewhere in the facility starting with the Offensive or Defensive coaches offices for $250,000 up to the Turf Practice Field for $15 million! Another planet from where I live. 🤑
https://trojanathleticfund.com/sports/2026/3/27/usc-football-bloom-performance-center-naming-opportunities.aspx
“Here Lies The Former Brian Kennedy Practice Field”!
Cracks me up! Love this idea. If only we had the clout to make it happen. 😂
Sophie Cunningham — Caitlin Clark’s Bodyguard
Big Ten College Football Hot Seat: The coaches feeling the pressure heading into 2026 season — (Andy Staples/on3.com) Luke Fickell, Wisconsin (Oct. 24 vs USC in Madison) Buyout after 2026 season: $19.2 million (1/4 of a Jimbo) This is the opposite of Mike Norvell’s situation at Florida State. In deciding to keep Luke Fickell at the end of last season, Wisconsin officials acknowledged that their inability to raise money for the roster in the pre-revenue share NIL era severely handicapped Fickell’s chances to succeed. Then-athletic director Chris McIntosh, who has since moved on to the Big Ten office, said… Read more »
Advanced apologies if this was mentioned earlier, but Phil Steele a few days ago ranked USC’s O-line #5 in the nation. All returners I get it. Last year was not stellar for the line, but returning with that much experience is a difference maker. Will we think out of the box and establish a power based offense, not changing course should a running play only yield two yards?
I wonder Steele ranked our D-Line?
Top Defensive Lines per Steele — USC is ranked #16 in the country. No. 1 Ohio State: Bucknuts highlights the unit as the country’s best with elite depth in the trenches. No. 2 Oregon: Anchors the top tier of Big Ten defensive fronts. No. 3 Oklahoma: Features key returners like defensive lineman David Stone. No. 4 Texas: Ranks high heading into a challenging 2026 schedule. No. 5 Notre Dame: Maintains a powerhouse presence up front. No. 6 Miami (FL): Noted as one of the ACC’s elite units. No. 7 Michigan: Boosted by major portal addition and former Utah standout John… Read more »
16?!!!! I can’t believe there is 15 teams better than us. You have Kam Crawford. I think he’s ready for a breakout season. The talent is definitely there. Braylan Shelby is talented with 2 years experience. Jahkeem Stewart had an outstanding season last year playing with a fractured leg. He didn’t even practice during the week. Definitely a possible 1st round pick. Got a very high upside with a lot more he can learn. He still should be in high school. Only played 2 years of high school ball. Jidi Abasiri is another one that has pro potential. Floyd Boucard… Read more »
This is a vote against Lincoln Riley.
Until he proves he can at least get USC into the playoffs, the sports media will continue to dump on USC football, sometimes unfairly, sometimes not.
Everyone knows USC has talent (though too often not well-developed), especially now. It’s the coaching that has always come up short for far too long.
But Steele did rate the O-Line #5(knowing LR is the coach) and I personally think(JMHO) that this D-Line is just as talented as the O-Line. That D-Line is loaded.
LR has a rep as a horrible defensive coach. That spills over to the team, regardless of Gary Patterson, who was fired from TCU on Oct. 31, 2021 with a 3-5 record, and has been only an analyst or totally out of the game until now. Some Trojan fans just assume he’ll be an instant amazing success despite not coaching for four years. Others aren’t so sure, but I’d say he should get the benefit of the doubt. LR’s known as a play caller who scores points, but has had a very hard time changing USC’s culture. His ignorance of… Read more »
I predicted that LR had 2 more years to prove himself and that was it. I’m not so sure anymore. I’m beginning to think that they will give him more than 2. This 2026 team is the 6th youngest team in the nation according to Rotowire.com (https://www.rotowire.com/cfootball/article/college-football-team-average-age-122046) …..actually 2nd youngest if you are just talking about the blue bloods. Yet I picked them to go 10-2. I’m sticking by that simply because they have exploding talent(and also because they are stacked on the O and D lines and that’s where you win football games). Even if their O and D… Read more »
Obviously if LR goes 20-4 in two reg seasons straight and makes the playoffs twice he won’t be fired. He’d probably get a raise and an extension if he actually did that.
He’s got a 15-20% of reaching that level of play per the odds.
OHIO ST, ORE, IU, UW and PSU will likely tell the tale for USC’s Odyssey-like voyage through the 2026 season.
But the Cyclops didn’t do so well in Christopher Nolan’s 3-hour battle. The Trojan Horse itself was amazing.
If he’s a good coach he’ll do it with the talent he has both on the field and at the administration level.
If he goes 10-2 this year and 10-2 next year……even I…..the original critic of Riley…..will call for his retention…..but no ten year contract…..a three year would work with huge incentives. He’ll probably go pro anyway…..which may be where he fits better. As for 27…..I agree…..experience counts for a lot and some of our elite talent coming in this year may need one year to season. Gotta bet that with our roster next year (assuming we don’t lose much and gain some from the portal) a top notch experienced QB might view us as a positive chance to make the NFL,… Read more »
With NIL and the Portal, it’s hard to ever “assume” who will stay with your team for one year to the next. I’ve given up on even trying to predict that. It seems like striking when the iron’s hot is the only way to go.
Look at USC baseball in terms of changes in both the coaching and player ranks. Next season will be like a totally different club.
I understand and somewhat agree….but…..going 10-2 and being hot might result in losing only those that are not going to be integral to the 27 team.
People unpredictably come and go for dozens of reasons. You can really only count on what you have now in this volatile environment. I’m interested in 2026. Many other important events will happen between now and 2027 making it pure speculation on the team’s roster, even its staff two seasons away.
2027 should be a great year. I’m really impressed when I look at the films of this new QB that we have(I think he’s from Illinois). We should have dynamite talent and tons of on the field experience. Plus the schedule doesn’t seem to be that tough……the toughest being OSU(there) and Indiana(here). But I still think we go 10-2 in 2026. This team is talented.
Yes, Jonas was the player of the year in 2025 in Illinois. The talent should be equal to the elite teams…..I’ve not be able to say that for a long time. Still a bit light on experience but in these portal days…..as Allen states so well……you got to strike while you’ve got them. The days of elite seniors across the board is probably leaving with an old guy like me. Don’t know the schedule yet but your guesses are good ones. There are only six real slots considering the three OOC crap and UCLA, Oregon and Washington seem to be… Read more »
He is a bit light on experience but hopefully he will get some experience this year. I’ve seen a lot of films on this guy and he can run. You have to watch a lot of film to see that because he stays in the pocket(which LR wants him to do) and only scrambles when he is about to get sacked. But when he does scramble he can run like a deer. I think this kid will be special although I admit it’s a little early to say that. But remember, we didn’t just get this kid out of high… Read more »
I have to hand it to Patterson no matter how it turns out. He knew what we needed…….he went out and got a good experienced run plug that was available with VanSumeren and then got a guy that has explosion with Fisher. VanSumeren may not scare the QB much but his hole is not going to be wide open. Fisher will be greeting the QB, given an opening, by the time the QB starts his check off.
Is it enough, I don’t know, but it’s a good start.
Portal transfers to USC have been a very mixed bag. Frankly, I haven’t the faintest idea if these new DL transfers will work out. I’m not sure the coaches do either.
That’s part of the fun of this time of year. We’re undefeated!
Alex VanSumeren, 6-2, 295
VanSumeren will be at Big Ten Media Days along with Jayden Maiava and DL Jide Abasiri.
For 2-years, Curt Cignetti has shown a very successful guideline on who to seek in the Portal. He has not been shy to share his thoughts about this. For most HC’s who are or have struggled to rebuild their programs, Cignetti has been a thorn in their side making them look somewhat clueless in this regard, and Riley has actually set the USC football program back 2-3 seasons being a poor judge of talent where it was needed most. I am hoping Chad Bowden has made the moves necessary to deal with this lack of knoledge that will give USC… Read more »
Good point about Chad! Riley made a lot of his bad moves without him. He’s like Riley’s shield now.
I also am voting against Riley for the reasons you state, Allen.
I also am not feeling the positive vibes about Maieva. I don’t see him as one of the top ten QBs in the nation. Riley’s teams only succeed when he has an All-American level QB. I just don’t see Jayden coming near to that level of play.
Jayden Maiava is such a huge key to this team. He’s kind of a mystery to me. He could end up being pretty darn good. Or he couldn’t.
There’s some real expertise for you D.D.S.!
I think we’re a Top 10 D Line in the country. You really can’t rate D Lines till they actually play but our talent levels are the best we’ve had in years.
agreed
Sounds good to me. Here’s JuJu Watkins’ approach to the 2026 season after missing a year with a torn right ACL. Hopefully USC’s football players are on the same page.
“Just discipline,” Watkins said of what USC women’s basketball needs this season. “Just attacking every day like there’s no tomorrow. I think it’s really essential that we do that. It’s my senior year. So super excited for that and not taking any moment for granted.”
It’s going to be great having Juju back on the court this season. Pair her with Kennedy Smith, Jazzy Davidson and the other players we’re bringing in and we should be a Top 25 team.
Could be a great year for the Women of Troy based on these way-too-early projections
ESPN — UCONN, TEXAS, SO CAR, LSU, MICH, USC
Yahoo — USC, UCONN, SO CAR, DUKE, TEXAS, LSU
CBS — UCONN, SO CAR, USC, TEXAS
If I had to choose between watching a soccer game in it’s entirety or being waterboarded, I would probably go with waterboarding.
Fortunately, USC doesn’t even have a men’s soccer team.
It sure would be nice if our football team finally stopped playing like a lightweight.
I’m betting on a 9-3 reg season (as usual for me).
How about you PN4SC? How about a prediction!
I think 9-3 sounds about right. I do believe this is Riley’s best team, and I am confident about GP’s ability to get the most out of this defense. I love Coach Ekeler.But the schedule is brutal, especially the 3 game stretch of Oregon/UDUB/PSU. And I still have concerns about Riley. I am not a playoff or Riley has to go subscriber, but this team has to at least look the part. We won’t know much until Oregon. If they rush for 350 yards, and on 4th and one we have to run a trick play,nothing has changed.
“If they rush for 350 yards, and on 4th and one we have to run a trick play, nothing has changed.” You can say that again. A little trip down memory lane. You reminded me of this little jet sweep misdirection doozy last season in the rain vs Notre Dame in South Bend on Oct. 18 when 5-1 USC was coming off a big 31-13 win over MICH in the Coliseum. There was 11:11 remaining in the fourth quarter. We trailed 27-24. The Irish weren’t playing very well at home. We had a real shot to win with the ball… Read more »
What matters is did he learn from it? Hope so. Admitting you have a problem is the first step.
I’m not crazy about soccer, but, really, I think I’d take soccer of water bording. Being bored beats screaming 6 days a week and twice on Sunday.
Spain beat Argentina 1-0 for the world cup championship. Surprise, Surprise……I thought the final score would be 60-59…..booorrrrring!!!
Wanted to try it. I did my best to watch the entire game.
]I guess if you live in a country with very little public wealth all you need to an open field and a ball. So I understand and hope they continue to enjoy the sport.
There is a bit of tension when the ball is being readied for centering in front of the goal.
If I were them I’d add a free kick at the end of each quarter…..and I’d go to quarters.
If they enjoy it, more power to them….but it’s not for me
I’am with you…..boring.
Care to share a flat-out prediction for USC’s regular football season record?
Come on! No hedging if at all possible. The season’s almost here.
I say 10-2 even though they will have a tough schedule. A lot will depend on whether GP actually turns this defense around as everyone is expecting. I think that the offense will be great. Maiava is more than what is necessary to lead a high powered offense even if he doesn’t win a Heisman. At running back we have 2 outstanding RB’s in Miller and Jordan but I’m really impressed with Redeaux. He reminds me a lot of Quintin Joiner. The O-Line should be great. All the starters are back. Justin Tauanuu is outstanding. He may start the season… Read more »
Obviously the pros are going with 9-3…..the three against the BIG three.
I’am at 8-4. We hopefully beat everybody that we should. Split the Penn St and Washington games…..lose against the BIG three.
I’am hoping we beat one of the BIG three (Ohio State) and make the playoffs at 9-3..
With no Riley and a capable coach ……10-2. So if my favorite moron grows up it’s possible…but….you said no hedge.
8-4.
JMHO….I can’t be dogmatic about this.
Why not? Sure you can 007. 10-2 is possible. We’ve just been burned so much lately that it’s tough to go with that. But I give USC a 25% chance for that, especially if we start winning the all-important turnover battle again and most of our questions are resolved in our favor. My problem for now is, I just have too many of those questions.
I think 2026 will be a revealing season. At the end of this season I think I will either be saying that all of you guys who have knocked LR were right and I have been drinking the kool-aide for the last 5 years or maybe this guy LR is really slowly evolving into an outstanding coach. I think the offense will be great. A lot will depend on the defense. D’Anton Lynn was an improvement over Grinch(which isn’t saying much) but still not the kind of defenses that we need to win championships. Defenses win championships much more than… Read more »
I think all of us guys who have knocked LR much of the time have already been proven right. By a mile. LR has absolutely stunk too much of the time and many of his most critical decisions in program staffing, planning, installing, executing, recruiting, and during game time have been ridiculously dumb. It’s always been expected that LR would improve. Most would, especially at a program like heavyweight USC and in view of his undeserved massive salary. We all just didn’t originally know that LR didn’t have a clue about how to quickly resurrect USC. He’d never built anything… Read more »
I’m still not convinced. Like I said, the 2026 season will tell me a lot more…..especially the Oregon game. There is no reason that we should lose that game….not with the talent we have this year especially playing at the Coliseum. JMHO….we’ll see.
As I’ve said, I’m going with 9-3. Thank you illinoisusc and 007 for not hedging. I actually think we will win one of three between ORE, OHIO ST and IU, but will drop one of the others. For instance, UCLA will be much harder to beat, and they were handling us last time at half with a bad team. UW’s always a threat and with PSU and WIS so far away east, either could obviously turn into a “Tesla on fire.” Our defense has to prove it on the field before I’m all in on that. Jayden Maiava has to… Read more »
I recall last year I called for 7-5 against a much weaker schedule……we are getting there.
Allen you and I are on the same page. I think there is a good chance they squeak one out against Oregon, that carries them over Udub. The long trip to Happy Valley will not end happy. They regroup for Wisconsin after the bye. Ohio St is too much. Indiana after a bye on the road, hard to pick at this point. We will know by Halloween what both teams are made of. UCLA may be a must win to make the playoffs and The Ruins may just spoil the party. After the first 3 this is an exciting schedule… Read more »
Coming home to the Bloom Football Performance Center will be nice.
It’ll be fun seeing USC roll this remarkable facility out to the press and a football hungry Trojan fan base.
If USC beats Oregon or Ohio State and ends 9-3…….there should be a demand for a slot in the playoffs for us. We would look no worse than Alabama last year. This assumes Penn St, with its minor league schedule and Washington trip along the way. Of course I’am being a bit of a homer….but I truly believe we may have a good case. The other problem is that aside from BIG membership USC seems to get treated poorly by the east of the Rockies crowd regularly. Hopefully if we get rolling they will not have decisions to make about… Read more »
The vast majority of non-ALA fans felt that ‘Bama did not deserve to make the 2025 playoff field. Their selection over 10-2 ND sparked massive nationwide criticism and heavy backlash regarding perceived “SEC bias.” I would say that the Irish definitely got screwed last season. JMHO. While ALA temporarily quieted critics by winning their first-round game against OU (34-24 in Norman), the public outrage returned on New Year’s Day when ALA was humiliated 38-3 by IU in the Rose Bowl quarterfinal, which many opposing fans and sports media outlets cited as ultimate proof that the committee made the wrong decision… Read more »
Well…..the SEC must own the committee to have all those teams in and the BIG having two teams in the semifinals. This illusion of power with their middle teams is questionable. They went 4-10 last year and 8-7 the prior year in bowl season.
It’s time for the BIG to take a minimum of 4 plus teams given the power of the conference. Several here have indicated the conference is becoming very strong in the middle.
Let’s do it!
Most everyone counts USC as an auto-victory in Madison vs the Badgers on Oct. 24 after a Trojan bye week. If we lose to the Badgers, pretty much a mid-B1G team, I assume it’ll be another no-playoff year for the Trojans.
ILL somehow lost to WIS last season in Madison and it wasn’t close: 27-10. What the heck happened? Was this just a fluke? WIS was just 4-8 last season.
Madison is a great college town where winning away can be tough. What should USC be worried the most about when it takes on the Badgers, besides location?
This Wisconsin team might be deceptive. Not saying they will beat USC, but who knows. Last year they played one of the toughest schedules in the country…….but managed to beat Washington and Illinois at home. They played, Ohio State, Alabama, Michigan, Iowa, Oregon, Washington, Indiana, Illinois and Minn. Their OL and DL are both back to being Wisconsin heavy. Several years of smaller is over. The beef is back is Madison! Their TE’s add to the heavy nature of the running attack. Starter is 270 pounds. RB looks above average…..and behind that line…… They finally have an average QB. If… Read more »
Do people in your area think Luke Fickell has what it takes? Most Trojan fans think we dodged a bullet when he fell out of the USC race.
Well…..does this sound familiar. Fickell came to Wisconsin loving the air raid. Like most coaches that believe in a system that don’t work in the BIG without a running game……it takes time to fix your mistake. Even after you fail, you probably have not recruited the linemen it takes to run. As you know it takes several years to get most heavies up to speed unlike a WR that may sometimes play season 1. So he is in season 4. He threw the first two away with an air raid approach. Season 3 was a schedule from hell compounded with… Read more »
Equally as bad as ND out and Ala in, was bringing in both Tulane and James Madison. Really, one of those two were better than ND? One token Group of 6 team is more than enough, though one year one of them will surprise us.
I’d vote for one of them to get in. “The “no chancers” have to have at least some late season crack at glory.
Heck, TUL beat USC and Caleb Williams in the 2023 Cotton Bowl 46-45.
Williams went 37 of 52 (71.1%) for 462 yds, 5 TDs, and 1 pick.
Of course, that was when Alex Grinch ruled the defensive sidelines for the Swiss cheese Trojans.
Lindy’s on WIS (#53 in country) Primary strengths — Between QB Colton Joseph’s legs, four promising tailbacks and a rebuilt offensive line, this should be a strong running team. The ILB duo of Mason Posa and Cooper Catalano is one of the best in the conference. The secondary is now longer and faster as well. Potential problems — There’s a lot of projection at almost every position. How will G6 and/or FCS players translate to the B1G? Is there a true number one receiver on the roster? How about a pure pass rusher? Through it all, pressure is on Fickell… Read more »
Now that money is openly changing hands between college players and alumni, and with betting student athletes being outed, how long before college football is just a minor league for the NFL? I know this subject has been bouncing around for a few years, but it’s starting to look more and more like a mere formality. A matter of days ago people were up in arms over President Trump asking for a review of penalty in the World Cup. So, both sides of the argument were being hashed about and the question of presidential interference in sports came up. Was… Read more »
There seems to be this growing myth that college football players are all professional athletes making millions. According to Deseret News, a 2025 report by Opendorse, predicts college football players will make a combined $2.4 billion in total compensation in 2026. That’s a big number. However, the 7000 Power 4 football players’ annual earnings breaks down like this: .3% more than a million dollars .6% from $999,000 to $500,000 9.1% from $499,000 to $100,000 7.4% from $99,000 to $50,000 16.1% from $49,000 to $10,000 66.5% less than $10,000 So only 10% are making a really nice living and may or… Read more »
England beats France 6-4 to take 3rd in the World Cup. Ya baby! What a match.
6-4 in futbol is like 42-28 football! Futbol is over after today on to football. 41 days! ⚽🏈😎✌
Six weeks til kickoff! Fall camp around the corner.
History was made today. Monshun Sales is the first 5 star recruit to ever sign with Indiana football.
Cignetti is thrilled…..he can finally field a good team if he gets a few more top notch recruits. The next target is to improve the 100 year old stadium and who knows…..maybe they might get rid of the snow and ice. Then…..and only then….should anyone hold him responsible for his record. 😂
CBS Sports’ Prediction for 2026 Trojans
An optimistic prediction by Brad Crawford CBS. If USC takes a big step up it may happen. If USC is 9-3, 4th place in the BIG, do they make the playoffs? Texas was #13 with 3 loses last year. Alabama got in with 3 loses but one was the SEC CCG. I can just see it, USC ranked #10 or 11 and gets bumped by ND and 2 Group of 6 teams.
I really think either Oregon or Ohio State could turn into wins since those games are at the Coli. Ohio State will have to travel across the country and could struggle with the time change.
Easier to travel west than east when it comes to time zone adaptations
I see 9-3 as an objective. Hoping to knock off Ohio State but a loss to somebody like Wisconsin might be in the cards. To hope for 10-2……we don’t have the coach or the roster.
Wisconsin was not a good team last year and hasn’t shown much under Luke Fickell
It’ll be the Battle of the Hot Seat Coaches.
The loser inches a step closer to irrelevancy.
Oct. 24 in Madison, where WIS beat both UW and ILL last season. USC will be coming off a bye. The Badgers play UCLA in Pasadena on Oct. 17.
Those Wisky Badger fans love their beer!
Well thanks for your view…..Of course I have no idea which of our lesser opponents might beat us……it certainly will not be the Wisconsin team from last year who played one of the toughest schedules I’ve ever seen. WI has improved this year and may actually have a chance to win 8 or more games. As we all know…..until he performs…..Riley on the road back east is definitely worth 7 plus points to anyone we go against. Penn St is the game I’am focused on as a tripper. We have the better roster but it should be a white out… Read more »
I think 10 of those teams that we play this year will have good to outstanding teams. I don’t know about SJS or Louisiana
USC should take care of the first 3 maybe being push for the first half of the game. Till Riley proves he can travel and win all the away games are traps. Even Rutgers, going to the ET zone. Riley managed to lose to a terrible Maryland in ’24 and Illinois last year. USC and Riley will have to play their best to beat Penn St in Happy Valley. Hard for me to know if Indiana will be as good as last year.
If Riley can beat Rutgers, Penn St, Wisconsin and Indiana…..the man will finally be due some admiration from USC fans. We’ll see.
I’am not giving him an impossible goal…..none of those four are the Crown Jewels of the BIG.
I think Indiana will be outstanding. Last year wasn’t a fluke. He’s been at Indiana 2 years, not one, and he’s 27-2 in those 2 years. I’m not saying he’ll win the NC but I expect them to be outstanding. Plus they don’t have a hard schedule.In the strength of schedule rankings they are rated 50th in the nation.
IU will probably be just fine. Not undefeated, or probable repeat national champ, but seriously well put together, dangerous, and coached by the man who can embarrass anyone. The Hoosiers will run over MINN at home on Oct. 31. Then Cignetti’s troops get a bye on Nov. 7 to rest up and prepare for USC on Nov. 14. USC also gets a week off before taking on the Hoosiers in Bloomington after hosting the Buckeyes on Oct. 31. I have a hard time believing USC will beat IU with their great coach, amazing culture and home field advantage. But if… Read more »
You are right no doubt Indiana will very good and tough to beat at home. Is Cignetti the strongest branch of the Nick Saban coaching tree? Here’s my ranking, with Kiffin on the rise:
Kirby Smart (Georgia)
Curt Cignetti (Indiana)
Dan Lanning (Oregon)
Mario Cristobal (Miami)
Lane Kiffin (Ole Miss)
Steve Sarkisian (Texas)
I wouldn’t be surprised to see Sarkesian gone at the end of this year.
I agree. The other two should be a nice half of warmup for each game.
But I do think Fickell is a good coach and this year he has his back against the wall. The seat is really hot. I don’t think the Badgers will make the playoffs but they probably will have an outstanding team….good enough to surprise the Trojans under the right conditions.
Might be a game…we’ll see.
I am agreeing with you Illinois. I think Riley will need another year to make it into the playoff. That is if he survives missing it again this season. Too many question marks about Jayden overcoming OSU-Oregon-at Indiana with only 1-returning WR to throw to. I think our defense will improve. But improve enough to severely limit the scoring of those top teams will be a big challenge. Riley is no Cignetti and program hasn’t developed his players into a top defense like those top teams have these past 2-3 years. Changing DC’s too often just limits a cohesive unti… Read more »
Jam……hopefully Coach P will cover up some of the Riley troubles but as you point out….the first year of a new system….. don’t feel confident.
As for him at Oklahoma……I don’t know enough to discuss…..I do know that Cignetti uses a bit of the spread in his program……the difference being that Cignetti put huge importance on OL recruiting and development from the day he arrived at Indiana……unfortunately for Riley he left his secret winning weapon at Oklahoma…..Bill Bedenbaugh…..been wandering around ever since.
Riley didn’t have a clue what he was doing when he came to USC.
Thankfully, Caleb Williams Pied Pipered his way to Trojan Land and hid a lot of USC problems with his spectacular Heisman-winning play.
But it all caved in during LR’s second year and we got a real sniff of his deficiencies and mind-numbingly inefficient, lame approach to winning games against good competition.
Hopefully, Lincoln has learned a lot and grown from his mistakes. I can’t help but think that he has. Fight On! ✌
It’s a good thing the deal went through because I didn’t want to see someone deleting the swoosh from the McKay statue. I hope the NIL part of the deal gets past the NCAA (Ninnies, Clowns And A@@holes)