USC Football: Stakes Sky High Heading Into Utah Game Saturday

Everything is on the line this weekend.

USC's bid at an undefeated season went up in smoke thanks to Notre Dame's dominant 48-20 win over the Trojans last weekend. 

The Men of Troy now turn their attention back to their conference schedule toward a bitter opponent that derailed their 2022 season. 

Matt Zemek of  Trojans Wire opines in a new piece that USC's upcoming contest on the gridiron contest has many more implications than simply winning or losing. 

If USC had beaten Utah just once in two tries last season, it would have made the College Football Playoff. Imagine where the Trojans would be in terms of recruiting and overall brand identity right now if they had beaten the Utes last year. Now USC faces Utah coming off a humiliating, damaging loss to Notre Dame. It’s a game in which USC should be angry, proud, determined, and fully intent on making a stand and proving a few points. If the Trojans can’t play with maximum effort and toughness in this game, against this opponent, in this situation, it will be a very clear sign that the whole program is a house of cards and needs a complete reset under Lincoln Riley. Saturday will reveal a lot — maybe not everything, but certainly a lot — about the USC football program, and where it is heading. Assistants should definitely be coaching for job security next year.

via Matt Zemek, Trojans Wire

Riley reached three CFPs during his time at Oklahoma, but the former Sooner head coach hasn't reached those heights with USC despite having the best quarterback in the sport. 

Though Caleb Williams looked far from his reigning Heisman form against the Fighting Irish, Riley's first test against a ranked opponent left USC exposed for their shortcomings. 

Utah awaits after beating USC twice last season and Riley and his roster only hope that their third test in as many tries is the charm with everything on the line. 

Don't forget to join our community at LA Sports Report, where we celebrate all things Trojans!