College Football Expert Sets High Expectations for Lincoln Riley's 2nd Season at The Helm

With expectations comes pressure!

When head coach Lincoln Riley joined USC last season, it was seen as a power type of move. Riley had been one of the better coaches in college football, and his teams always seemed to find success.

His first year with the Trojans was no different as the team won 11 games and came ever so close to reaching the College Football Playoff. But now entering his second season, all the pressure is on Riley and this Trojans program to deliver the ultimate goal. 

The Trojans will enter the 2023 season as one of the favorites to reach the College Football Playoffs, but it won't come easy. They have a decently hard schedule but do possess the talent needed to be able to win. The pressure is on at USC this season, and winning is now expected. 

Adam Gorney of Rivals.com expects the Trojans to have a very successful season this year. But the biggest question will come from their Achilles Heel from last season, the defense.

 "But the future is bright at USC, the Trojans have the best QB in college football back, the offense should score at will and - maybe - the defense will be improved this season. It was pretty awful last season and garnered calls for Riley to replace defensive coordinator Alex Grinch, which he didn’t do."

Per Rivals.com

The defense will be the biggest x-factor because the Trojans' offense will likely once again score on everyone. But they showed down the stretch that the defense would cost them, and heading into this year, they should be better, but it remains a question mark.

If the Trojans can get their defense to even average across the country, it would go a long way in helping this team reach their goals. 

Additionally, the schedule presents its own set of challenges. Colorado, Utah, and Washington all come to Southern California, but USC does go on the road against Oregon and Notre Dame. 

"A look at the schedule and one question arises: Who has the firepower to beat them? Probably nobody (plus Utah and Washington come to Los Angeles this season) but at Notre Dame and at Oregon could go sideways. "



Per Rivals.com

Until proven otherwise, USC will be seen as a favorite in most of these games. Reigning Heisman Trophy winner Caleb Williams is back and ready to go. They have the talent to possibly run the table and make a run at the playoff. If they don't, this season will be considered a letdown. If they don't, this season will be viewed as a letdown.