Swanson: Lincoln Riley, USC building trust – and winning while they do
The new-look Trojans’ chemistry is still a work in progress, which begs the question: How good can they be when they’re really in sync?
Mirjam Swanson (OC Register) — LOS ANGELES — Football, if you think about it, is a trust exercise. A bunch of big, strong parts that better be in sync for things to fall into place on the field successfully and safely.
Usually, you have to build trust, but you can have earned it too. And with a reputation like Lincoln Riley’s, it’s obvious why 26 talented transfers trusted their careers to USC’s new coach.
Riley churned out Heisman Trophy winners and College Football Playoff berths in his five-year run at Oklahoma. His Sooners went 55-10 before he turned a destination gig into a stepping stone for a job in sunny Southern California, reanimating a program that had cycled through five coaches in the 12 years since Pete Carroll headed back to the NFL.
Who wouldn’t want to hitch their horse to a star like Riley, a brilliant 39-year-old whose hire was praised in every corner of the college football universe (except Norman, Oklahoma)?
And now that Riley has arrived and gotten to work, he’s living up to his billing: “That guy has a wealth of knowledge for his age, it’s beyond incredible,” senior offensive lineman Andrew Vorhees said. “His wisdom out here on the football field is just surreal, so we just bind to that and what he brings to the table.”
Still, despite the hype and positive early returns, Riley doesn’t think his players are believing enough in what they’re doing.
Even after opening the season with a grand 66-14 trouncing of Rice and then sprinting ahead for a 41-28 victory over Stanford on the road, Riley has a read on some residual reluctance.
Never mind that USC’s new-look offense is averaging 8.62 yards per play – best in the nation. Or that the Trojans are totaling 521.5 yards per game, better than all but 11 other teams in the country (and exactly as many as Fresno State, Saturday’s opponent). Doubt keeps creeping around.
Aren’t the Trojans – who finished 4-8 last season – now No. 7 in the AP Top 25 poll, their highest ranking since 2017? Yes, but still the coach senses some skepticism.
Natural skepticism. And less of it than he expected in the early going.
“The buy-in has been what I hoped it would be and probably, up to this point, I would be lying if (I said) it hadn’t maybe exceeded my expectations a little bit,” Riley said Thursday during a video conference with reporters.
He said he’s more proud of that than anything so far.
And he seems to think the trust-building still to come, the chemistry and confidence that they’re trying to hurry along, will prove as crucial as talent or scheme.
“When our guys trust what we’re doing and we don’t make mental errors, we do some pretty good things,” Riley said, thinking perhaps of the crisply executed screen pass that had Jordan Addison darting 22 yards through a field full of blockers for USC’s second touchdown last Saturday.
“And when we don’t,” Riley countered, “we don’t.”
They didn’t trust it in the second half at Stanford, to hear the Trojans tell it. After taking a 35-14 lead into halftime, they managed just two field goals.
“We kind of stalled,” quarterback Caleb Williams sighed Wednesday. “And it wasn’t because necessarily of anything the defense was doing … just (not) trusting what the coach is calling, trusting your checks, trusting your blocking keys that we practiced throughout the whole week.
“And so this whole week, we’ve been preaching trust: Trust it, trust what we’re all working toward.”
Williams is more in tune with Riley than his teammates, having followed his coach from Oklahoma. Still, the quarterback described their bond as one that “has been building,” and Riley noted that even with Williams, even after “all the reps we’ve had together, it’s not 100%.” After all, “it’s hard to get to that point.”
That’s where the audacity of this exercise comes in: Riley is saying this about a 20-year-old sophomore who has completed 79.6% (39 of 49) of his passes for 590 yards, six touchdowns and no picks so far.
How productive might these guys be when they get in lockstep? How much higher than No. 7 will the new-and-improved Trojans climb when they really find a rhythm?
When those things happen, Riley’s stated goal – “to win championships, win them now and to win them for a long time,” as he put it at Pac-12 media day – starts to look increasingly feasible.
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The announcer in the Oklahoma/Nebraska game just said after OK scored it’s fourth touchdown on a trick play that left a guy wide open, “we’ve covered a lot of Oklahoma games, and I gotta tell you, under Brent Venables, … they look different.” Apparently, he has forgotten that Oklahoma is playing Nebraska, that lost at home last week to Clay Helton’s Sun Belt team and fired its head coach this game-week. He must think with the uniform colors that Alabama is somewhere on that field.
I’d say this is one of the worst Coaches Hot Seats I have ever seen as it is largely inaccurate. Sometimes, they are pretty bad. Check out these quick five stupid picks based on my worthless two cents: 3 David Shaw — Ya, right. He’s revered and a literal God in Stanford, a school that is happiest when they are .500 and beat CAL. 4 Karl Dorrell — He’s absolutely helpless and should be #1. “Radio” (his inappropriate and cruel but chuckle-inducing nickname per some Trojans) actually somehow beat Pete Carroll 13-9 in 2006, but I think that may have… Read more »
FINAL WAGERS FOR THE WEEKEND Rialto Trojan USC -12.5 8,500 Oklahoma -14.5 1,000 Cal +10.5 1,000 San Diego St +20.5 500 Golden Trojan USC -12.5 for 8000 Chris USC -12.5 for 3000 Nebraska +14.5 for 500 Cal +10.5 for 500 BYU +3.5 for 500 Penn St -3.5 for 500 Washington -2.5 for 500 Miami +6.5 for 500 Utah -20.5 for 500 San Diego Trojan Utah -20.5 for 3000 USC -12.5 for 4000 M/M SteveG USC -12.5 for 3000 Miami +6.5 for 3000 TrojanRJJ USC -12.5 250 USC/Fresno State Over 71.5 1,000 Miami +6.5 500 BUS83 BYU +3.5 for 2000 ND… Read more »
Getting the team to buy into Riley’s program might be harder than people think. Looking at the make up of the team, you have part all star and part left overs from a rudderless ship. Winning is cool for the all stars, while the left overs are trying to retain tradition.
Someone’s asking if the NIL might kill the tradition of no names on the jerseys. I hope not. There’s no reason to change, players wear numbers.
LR’s stupendous amalgamation of both coaching talent and tremendous player ability at USC has been an amazing thing to see. We truly were a “rudderless ship” as you say. Now, USC seems as focused as a rifle shot.
Beat the Bulldogs. Let’s go 3-0 and watch the pressure build.
Most impressive to me is how well coordinated our o-line is, and how critical their assignments are not just to pass protection but also the development of plays downfield. Those o-line dudes have REALLY stepped up to help make this offense work, and who would have expected we could say that a year ago?!
Rock, again thanks for the Coaches Caviar. The slow-mo after the scripting really shows the defense cannot easily determine where the play is headed until it’s too late to stop it. LR’s play designs actually puts the main blockers in position open the running lane for the ball carrier. I can see recruits looking at these plays are so cool and coach Riley is a genius.
Late-Night Shootout? Ryan Kartje (LAT) — “In their last four meetings, USC and Fresno State have combined for an average of 69 points per game. Their latest matchup could be similarly high-flying. “USC’s offense ranks second in the nation in scoring (53.5 points per game), while Fresno State’s passing offense ranks ninth in the nation in yards (368.5 per game). QB Jake Haener could be among the top quarterbacks USC faces all season. “The ball is gonna be in the air,” Grinch said. “But that approach should play right into USC’s hands … assuming its defense can salvage a few… Read more »
I’m not sure, about the 2nd half scoring, it was about the players trusting the offense. After all they scored the 1st 5-times they had the ball (who wouldn’t be impressed with that?). I think it was the old story,” hey we got this game in the bag” so we can let up and cruise Whittier Blvd the rest of the way. It was about concentration.
Interesting how when LR slowed the pace of the offense to work the clock, the players started executing the plays at a slower pace. Yeah, that cruise mind set. I’m sure that was a big point this week, just because you take 25 seconds to run a play instead of 10 doesn’t mean you go 20% slower.
Golden, Thanks for the great insight. I wondered what happened. LR explained that he wanted to practice slowing the game down, pointing out that there will be game when slowing down the pace is going to be critical to a victory. He said that it failed and that both the players and the coaches will need to do a better job. Your insight explained it wonderfully. The kids had a very difficult time adjusting to the slower pace.
What a difference in team culture. Last year you couldn’t get them to go at a high octane pace, now this team is like “What do you mean slow down”. These guys it appears just need to score 100 a game and the heck with the slow down, lets rock and roll for 4 quarters. I understand the concept of clock control quite well, so don’t take me wrong here. It is just the players are not used to it.
Texas Spent Nearly $280K on Arch Manning, More Prospects’ Recruiting Weekend Tyler Conway — “Sam Khan Jr. of The Athletic reported TEXAS spent nearly $280,000 during Arch Manning’s two-day official visit in June. The visit included eight other prospects, but there was no question the school was rolling out a Benjamin Franklin-printed carpet for Manning. “The lavish weekend included a stay at a luxury hotel, two dinners averaging over $30,000 and a pair of open-bar parent socials that totaled five figures. “The exorbitant tab for the weekend may open eyes across the country, but it’s merely the cost of doing high-level… Read more »
Shula, Sims, to name a few….. off-spring to famous fathers, did not come up to the expectations because of their name/pedigree. All the hype, even before junior walks onto the football field, is just that, so be careful of the expectations Texas as the finger pointing will create damage if it doesn’t work out in the Rose Garden.
I think if Lincoln Riley were coaching the Chargers last night and running HIS offense with Justin Herbert as his QB, the Chargers would have definitely beaten the Chiefs and I’d be thinking the Chargers could really be a Super Bowl team.
Actually, the NFL seems like an easier gig nowadays. With non-stop recruiting and the early signing period, the Portal, NIL, super conferences, etc, I don’t see how college coaches get a day off. I think 39-year old Riley eventually goes to the NFL, especially if he wins a NC for USC. I’m hoping USC can keep him for 5-6 years. Sorry GT. There’s always the angle that LR just loves CFB so much he’ll become a lifer at USC, because he’s not going to any other college. But I do believe the Rams, the Chargers, and many other NFL teams… Read more »
Allen, LR is making more as the SC coach than any NFL coach. I think the highest paid is Belichick at $11 Million. LR is making, counting everything, north of $12 Million. I also think that McVey makes $3M. I really do not think that LR leaves SC. He is very much a collegiate coach paid more than an NFL coach.
Sounds to me like wishful thinking @TrojanRJJ. How do you know LR isn’t the perfect candidate to win a Super Bowl? How do you know that accomplishment isn’t part of LR’s long-term desire as a coach? Maybe his kids will want him home more (see Urban Meyer), and the NFL would provide that. Obviously, LR doesn’t need more money (but don’t tell that to Nick Saban), which would only be one factor if LR left for the NFL. But there are other forms of “compensation” that are just as valuable, such as control (see Pete Carroll), opportunity, family desires (see… Read more »
The NFL is going to throw money and power his way every year, and I hope he decides to spend a decade or more here before wanting that challenge. The money college coaches make now equals and exceeds that of the NFL, and job security in college, once a program gets rolling, can mean you own the city and can stay forever if you want. I used to think Pete would never leave what he built, so nothing would surprise me. I think it will eventually come down to his ego and need for a new challenge. As young as… Read more »
I was thinking the exact same thing as I was watching that Charger game last night. They have the QB and all this talent and didn’t take advantage of it like Riley does with motion, Miss direction and scheme. I really like this Charger team and want to see them do well. Their recent history is to find ways to lose one score games, and I hope this years team is different. Herbert is really special.
I think this will be the week we see our defense take a leap forward. We won’t get 4 turnovers, but we will make lots of plays. I feel really good about an easy cover.
The schedule is looking more and more like each game allows the defense to progress from one game to the next building to the Utah game. Then they get a bye before the final 5 game run. I too have a good feeling about tomorrow. Fresno is not going to surprise LR and Grinch. Helton would be bewildered but not these guys.
Fresno State at No. 7 USC (-12.5), 10:30 p.m. (Fox)
USC could be one of the most entertaining teams to watch this season (understatement of the year!), because QB Caleb Williams, WR Jordan Addison and Co. are going to put up points each week. But that defense is going to give up a lot of points too. It’s at least been able to create eight turnovers. It may need more against Jake Haenerand the Bulldogs offense.
FRESNO ST lost in such brutal fashion to ORE ST, I really wonder if they can get that game out of their heads in time for facing USC’s offensive juggernaut.
This game could easily be a repeat of last week’s. Few programs will have this prolific of a USC offense to match. Yes, Jeff Tedford has an offensive mind that is probably superior to any other OC on USC ‘s regular schedule this season. But does he have the players to match what LR has on offense? NO. The only question I have is if this team gets another big lead, will the offense get lazy and then be up to the defense to protect that lead? Will LR allow the team to look at Fresno St. as a MWC… Read more »
I would bet that LR will have his foot on the accelerator full bore until the game is literally out of reach. If Haener goes down, it will be over at that point. I have more and more confidence in the defense each week. Guys are stepping up.
The Lincoln Riley/Caleb Williams Connection Is Real “Against Stanford, Lincoln Riley got Caleb Williams’ attention as the play clock wound down and gave him a play to check into. Williams delivered the adjustments to his teammates, then handed the ball off to Travis Dye, who went untouched into the end zone for a 27-yard touchdown. “They have some kind of connection where (Riley) gives one little whistle and (Caleb’s) looking over really quick, and I’m just like, ‘OK, he’s over there playing Madden and stuff with Caleb,’” Dye said. “But they’re really in tune with each other. “Those are two… Read more »
I get a kick out of Riley and how he signals to Williams. It is like what the heck did that mean. Somehow Williams is on the same page and they just connect. Amazing.
Easy to see why he is the best. Both hands firmly on the ball. He knew the tackle attempt was coming after looking back. He then made a great spin move to slip out and score. Beautiful play.
Notre Dame Football Reveals Names on Green Jerseys for Cal Game
“The marketing slogan for Notre Dame football’s upcoming home game against California has been ‘Irish Wear Green’.”
“Now the Irish will also wear last names. The Notre Dame football Twitter account revealed Thursday afternoon that the green jerseys the Irish will wear Saturday (2:30 p.m. EDT on NBC) will also include the last names of the players on their backs.
“The Irish also wore last names on their jerseys in the 37-35 loss to Oklahoma State in the Fiesta Bowl on Jan. 1…”
I think I read that a player cannot be in a USC jersey doing NIL unless the school signs off on it. If that is the case I cannot see the advantage of breaking such an old tradition. Although it would help identify the players in the early part of the season.
“When our guys trust what we’re doing and we don’t make mental errors, we do some pretty good things,” Riley said, thinking perhaps of the crisply executed screen pass that had Jordan Addison darting 22 yards through a field full of blockers for USC’s second touchdown last Saturday.
The announcer in the Oklahoma/Nebraska game just said after OK scored it’s fourth touchdown on a trick play that left a guy wide open, “we’ve covered a lot of Oklahoma games, and I gotta tell you, under Brent Venables, … they look different.” Apparently, he has forgotten that Oklahoma is playing Nebraska, that lost at home last week to Clay Helton’s Sun Belt team and fired its head coach this game-week. He must think with the uniform colors that Alabama is somewhere on that field.
Jimbo Fisher is #1 on Coaches Hotseat after 2 games. He is even lower than Karl Dorrell who is #4.
I’d say this is one of the worst Coaches Hot Seats I have ever seen as it is largely inaccurate. Sometimes, they are pretty bad. Check out these quick five stupid picks based on my worthless two cents: 3 David Shaw — Ya, right. He’s revered and a literal God in Stanford, a school that is happiest when they are .500 and beat CAL. 4 Karl Dorrell — He’s absolutely helpless and should be #1. “Radio” (his inappropriate and cruel but chuckle-inducing nickname per some Trojans) actually somehow beat Pete Carroll 13-9 in 2006, but I think that may have… Read more »
FINAL WAGERS FOR THE WEEKEND Rialto Trojan USC -12.5 8,500 Oklahoma -14.5 1,000 Cal +10.5 1,000 San Diego St +20.5 500 Golden Trojan USC -12.5 for 8000 Chris USC -12.5 for 3000 Nebraska +14.5 for 500 Cal +10.5 for 500 BYU +3.5 for 500 Penn St -3.5 for 500 Washington -2.5 for 500 Miami +6.5 for 500 Utah -20.5 for 500 San Diego Trojan Utah -20.5 for 3000 USC -12.5 for 4000 M/M SteveG USC -12.5 for 3000 Miami +6.5 for 3000 TrojanRJJ USC -12.5 250 USC/Fresno State Over 71.5 1,000 Miami +6.5 500 BUS83 BYU +3.5 for 2000 ND… Read more »
Hi John, I thought I bet 3000 on Miami. Is 300 right or a typo?
Sorry, I corrected it.
Whew!!
Getting the team to buy into Riley’s program might be harder than people think. Looking at the make up of the team, you have part all star and part left overs from a rudderless ship. Winning is cool for the all stars, while the left overs are trying to retain tradition.
Someone’s asking if the NIL might kill the tradition of no names on the jerseys. I hope not. There’s no reason to change, players wear numbers.
LR’s stupendous amalgamation of both coaching talent and tremendous player ability at USC has been an amazing thing to see. We truly were a “rudderless ship” as you say. Now, USC seems as focused as a rifle shot.
Beat the Bulldogs. Let’s go 3-0 and watch the pressure build.
For anyone who hasn’t seen it, here is a link to a nice little film breakdown of our offense operating against Stanford: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iIK8itvR3wM
Most impressive to me is how well coordinated our o-line is, and how critical their assignments are not just to pass protection but also the development of plays downfield. Those o-line dudes have REALLY stepped up to help make this offense work, and who would have expected we could say that a year ago?!
Thanks for the Coaches Caviar. Gotta love that. I say we “rat kill” FRESNO ST as frequently as possible. ✌
Ratatouille Saturday!
Rock, again thanks for the Coaches Caviar. The slow-mo after the scripting really shows the defense cannot easily determine where the play is headed until it’s too late to stop it. LR’s play designs actually puts the main blockers in position open the running lane for the ball carrier. I can see recruits looking at these plays are so cool and coach Riley is a genius.
Late-Night Shootout? Ryan Kartje (LAT) — “In their last four meetings, USC and Fresno State have combined for an average of 69 points per game. Their latest matchup could be similarly high-flying. “USC’s offense ranks second in the nation in scoring (53.5 points per game), while Fresno State’s passing offense ranks ninth in the nation in yards (368.5 per game). QB Jake Haener could be among the top quarterbacks USC faces all season. “The ball is gonna be in the air,” Grinch said. “But that approach should play right into USC’s hands … assuming its defense can salvage a few… Read more »
Well tha’ts what they said last week about the Stanford QB. INT and TFL (tackles for loss) will be what’s in store for Fresno tomorrow night.
I’m not sure, about the 2nd half scoring, it was about the players trusting the offense. After all they scored the 1st 5-times they had the ball (who wouldn’t be impressed with that?). I think it was the old story,” hey we got this game in the bag” so we can let up and cruise Whittier Blvd the rest of the way. It was about concentration.
Interesting how when LR slowed the pace of the offense to work the clock, the players started executing the plays at a slower pace. Yeah, that cruise mind set. I’m sure that was a big point this week, just because you take 25 seconds to run a play instead of 10 doesn’t mean you go 20% slower.
Keen observation GT!
Golden, Thanks for the great insight. I wondered what happened. LR explained that he wanted to practice slowing the game down, pointing out that there will be game when slowing down the pace is going to be critical to a victory. He said that it failed and that both the players and the coaches will need to do a better job. Your insight explained it wonderfully. The kids had a very difficult time adjusting to the slower pace.
What a difference in team culture. Last year you couldn’t get them to go at a high octane pace, now this team is like “What do you mean slow down”. These guys it appears just need to score 100 a game and the heck with the slow down, lets rock and roll for 4 quarters. I understand the concept of clock control quite well, so don’t take me wrong here. It is just the players are not used to it.
Riley admitted in the Cowherd interview that they slowed down the offense to control the clock.
Texas Spent Nearly $280K on Arch Manning, More Prospects’ Recruiting Weekend Tyler Conway — “Sam Khan Jr. of The Athletic reported TEXAS spent nearly $280,000 during Arch Manning’s two-day official visit in June. The visit included eight other prospects, but there was no question the school was rolling out a Benjamin Franklin-printed carpet for Manning. “The lavish weekend included a stay at a luxury hotel, two dinners averaging over $30,000 and a pair of open-bar parent socials that totaled five figures. “The exorbitant tab for the weekend may open eyes across the country, but it’s merely the cost of doing high-level… Read more »
Shula, Sims, to name a few….. off-spring to famous fathers, did not come up to the expectations because of their name/pedigree. All the hype, even before junior walks onto the football field, is just that, so be careful of the expectations Texas as the finger pointing will create damage if it doesn’t work out in the Rose Garden.
I think if Lincoln Riley were coaching the Chargers last night and running HIS offense with Justin Herbert as his QB, the Chargers would have definitely beaten the Chiefs and I’d be thinking the Chargers could really be a Super Bowl team.
whats the over under for lr going to the nfl?
Don’t even talk about that!
Actually, the NFL seems like an easier gig nowadays. With non-stop recruiting and the early signing period, the Portal, NIL, super conferences, etc, I don’t see how college coaches get a day off. I think 39-year old Riley eventually goes to the NFL, especially if he wins a NC for USC. I’m hoping USC can keep him for 5-6 years. Sorry GT. There’s always the angle that LR just loves CFB so much he’ll become a lifer at USC, because he’s not going to any other college. But I do believe the Rams, the Chargers, and many other NFL teams… Read more »
Allen, LR is making more as the SC coach than any NFL coach. I think the highest paid is Belichick at $11 Million. LR is making, counting everything, north of $12 Million. I also think that McVey makes $3M. I really do not think that LR leaves SC. He is very much a collegiate coach paid more than an NFL coach.
Sounds to me like wishful thinking @TrojanRJJ. How do you know LR isn’t the perfect candidate to win a Super Bowl? How do you know that accomplishment isn’t part of LR’s long-term desire as a coach? Maybe his kids will want him home more (see Urban Meyer), and the NFL would provide that. Obviously, LR doesn’t need more money (but don’t tell that to Nick Saban), which would only be one factor if LR left for the NFL. But there are other forms of “compensation” that are just as valuable, such as control (see Pete Carroll), opportunity, family desires (see… Read more »
The NFL is going to throw money and power his way every year, and I hope he decides to spend a decade or more here before wanting that challenge. The money college coaches make now equals and exceeds that of the NFL, and job security in college, once a program gets rolling, can mean you own the city and can stay forever if you want. I used to think Pete would never leave what he built, so nothing would surprise me. I think it will eventually come down to his ego and need for a new challenge. As young as… Read more »
I was thinking the exact same thing as I was watching that Charger game last night. They have the QB and all this talent and didn’t take advantage of it like Riley does with motion, Miss direction and scheme. I really like this Charger team and want to see them do well. Their recent history is to find ways to lose one score games, and I hope this years team is different. Herbert is really special.
I think this will be the week we see our defense take a leap forward. We won’t get 4 turnovers, but we will make lots of plays. I feel really good about an easy cover.
USC 45 FS 24
The schedule is looking more and more like each game allows the defense to progress from one game to the next building to the Utah game. Then they get a bye before the final 5 game run. I too have a good feeling about tomorrow. Fresno is not going to surprise LR and Grinch. Helton would be bewildered but not these guys.
USC 59, FSU 48. SC “only” +2 in the turnover ratio.
Stewart Mandel picks USC to beat the spread
Fresno State at No. 7 USC (-12.5), 10:30 p.m. (Fox)
USC could be one of the most entertaining teams to watch this season (understatement of the year!), because QB Caleb Williams, WR Jordan Addison and Co. are going to put up points each week. But that defense is going to give up a lot of points too. It’s at least been able to create eight turnovers. It may need more against Jake Haener and the Bulldogs offense.
USC 47, Fresno State 34
Pick: USC -12.5
theathletic.com
USC 53-35.
FRESNO ST lost in such brutal fashion to ORE ST, I really wonder if they can get that game out of their heads in time for facing USC’s offensive juggernaut.
This game could easily be a repeat of last week’s. Few programs will have this prolific of a USC offense to match. Yes, Jeff Tedford has an offensive mind that is probably superior to any other OC on USC ‘s regular schedule this season. But does he have the players to match what LR has on offense? NO. The only question I have is if this team gets another big lead, will the offense get lazy and then be up to the defense to protect that lead? Will LR allow the team to look at Fresno St. as a MWC… Read more »
I would bet that LR will have his foot on the accelerator full bore until the game is literally out of reach. If Haener goes down, it will be over at that point. I have more and more confidence in the defense each week. Guys are stepping up.
Great Golden, I have USC 52 Fresno 31. Great minds…
The Lincoln Riley/Caleb Williams Connection Is Real “Against Stanford, Lincoln Riley got Caleb Williams’ attention as the play clock wound down and gave him a play to check into. Williams delivered the adjustments to his teammates, then handed the ball off to Travis Dye, who went untouched into the end zone for a 27-yard touchdown. “They have some kind of connection where (Riley) gives one little whistle and (Caleb’s) looking over really quick, and I’m just like, ‘OK, he’s over there playing Madden and stuff with Caleb,’” Dye said. “But they’re really in tune with each other. “Those are two… Read more »
I get a kick out of Riley and how he signals to Williams. It is like what the heck did that mean. Somehow Williams is on the same page and they just connect. Amazing.
Jordan Addison breaking Stanford’s back with 75-yd catch and escape.
Easy to see why he is the best. Both hands firmly on the ball. He knew the tackle attempt was coming after looking back. He then made a great spin move to slip out and score. Beautiful play.
Notre Dame Football Reveals Names on Green Jerseys for Cal Game
“The marketing slogan for Notre Dame football’s upcoming home game against California has been ‘Irish Wear Green’.”
“Now the Irish will also wear last names. The Notre Dame football Twitter account revealed Thursday afternoon that the green jerseys the Irish will wear Saturday (2:30 p.m. EDT on NBC) will also include the last names of the players on their backs.
“The Irish also wore last names on their jerseys in the 37-35 loss to Oklahoma State in the Fiesta Bowl on Jan. 1…”
yahoo.com
Will USC have to do this because of NILs? I hope not.
So much has changed, especially in the last year, it’s hard to be surprised anymore.
I think I read that a player cannot be in a USC jersey doing NIL unless the school signs off on it. If that is the case I cannot see the advantage of breaking such an old tradition. Although it would help identify the players in the early part of the season.
WYO transfer rush end Solomon Byrd seems to be wearing a new slightly more futuristic-looking helmet/facemask