USC Football Welcomes Promising Freshman Class
Lincoln Riley is making big moves with his freshman class this year.
With a solid lineup returning, including quarterback Jayden Maiava and the whole offensive line, USC’s coaching staff felt confident recruiting a large group of high school prospects.
This effort has resulted in a 35-member freshman class that ranks among the nation’s best.
“I’ve called this situation a perfect storm,” Riley mentioned during a recent campus roundtable discussing his team.
The combination of exceptional high school talent—Riley considers it among the top in Southern California—and an increase in the scholarship cap, along with many seasoned returners, has the Trojans hopeful for a spot in the College Football Playoff.
Leading the class are five-star recruits offensive tackle Keaney Pepe, edge rusher Luke Waffle, and defensive lineman Jamion Winfield. When including nine transfers and new high school players, USC now boasts 25 four- and five-star recruits.
Riley’s enthusiasm is heightened by the number of freshmen already on campus. He mentioned that the roster includes 31 or 32 players, giving these young athletes an impressive participation rate in offseason training and spring practice compared to any of his previous teams.
“We’re definitely going to see some young talent step up, and I think our overall talent is pretty unique,” Riley said. “But we also have a lot of experience in key positions. When you look at what we have coming back, it aligns with what championship teams usually possess.”
USC has 16 players who were part-time starters last season, including key figures.
Maiava led the Big Ten in passing yards last year, totaling 3,711, and he’s back after throwing 24 touchdowns. Riley aims for him to make the same type of leap he experienced from his first to second year on the team.
The running back position looks strong as well. Waymond Jordan is expected to return from an ankle injury sustained against Michigan last October, which could shift King Miller into the starting role, presenting the Trojans with two capable options.
Wide receiver, however, remains a bit uncertain. With Makai Lemon and Ja’Kobi Lane gone, there are two significant openings. One may be filled by Tanuk Hines, the team’s third option as a true freshman last season. Terrell Hines, a transfer from North Carolina State, and freshman Trent Mosley are also expected to contribute.
“All the young receivers have a fantastic chance to step up and make an impact, just like Tanuk did last year,” Riley said.
New defensive coordinator Gary Patterson has some intriguing talent to address the team’s struggles on defense.
Veteran edge rushers Braylan Shelby and Kameryn Crawford are set to disrupt opposing offenses. Defensive tackle Jakeem Stewart could be primed for a breakout after dealing with a stress fracture last season.
The linebacking group brings back starter Desman Stevens II, and Deven Bryant, a transfer from Washington, might fill Eric Gentry’s role after contributing significantly last year.
The secondary, however, requires a rebuild after losing three starters. One cornerback spot will potentially go to Iowa State transfer Jontez Williams, who could team up with Marcells Williams.
Christian Pierce and Kennedy Urlacher had promising performances in the Alamo Bowl, suggesting a bright future for a team aiming to turn the page after a few disappointing seasons.
When asked about the billboards in LA proclaiming “The Time Is Now,” Riley acknowledged the persistent pressure to win championships.
“There’s an expectation here to compete for a championship every year,” he stated. “You’re part of a blue-blood program. Even in our first year, despite not winning it all, we still exceeded a lot of expectations. Yet, the goal is always to aim for the top.”
