USC Football: Trojans Ranked In Hopeful Spot Within Early 2024 PFF Rankings

Can the Trojans turn things around this coming season?

The 2023 season for the USC Trojans was one of the more disappointing in program history. After almost reaching the College Football Playoff in 2022, the Trojans were seen as true contenders.

They brought back star quarterback Caleb Williams, and USC was expected to heavily compete. However, the year turned out the complete opposite, and they fell flat on their faces.

USC finished the year with a record of 7-5, much to the dismay of the fanbase. But as the offseason has gone on, there is room for some hope within this Trojans program. 

The Trojans are slated to have a much better season in 2024, but there could be some growing pains with a lot of talent leaving. Pro Football Focus put out a way too early Top-25 rankings, and the Trojans came in at No. 19 on the list.

"19. USC TROJANS (2023 RECORD: 8-5, WON HOLIDAY BOWL)

USC was the most disappointing team in college football. With the reigning Heisman winner, Caleb Williams, returning to lead them, the Trojans entered the season ranked sixth and having College Football Playoff expectations. Instead, USC’s putrid defense (118th in EPA per play) caused them to fall to just 8-5 and without a number next to its name."



Per Max Chadwick of PFF

Being ranked in the top 25 after the year they put together is a good sign for USC. It means that outsiders are high on this team, and rightfully so.

They still have a lot of talent on the roster, with Lincoln Riley coaching the team. Additionally, they brought D'Anton Lynn to run the defense, which should help alleviate concerns along that side of the ball.

"Lincoln Riley addressed those defensive issues by hiring UCLA’s D’Anton Lynn as defensive coordinator. In his first year there, the Bruins improved from 111th in expected points allowed per play to eighth. As for Williams’ replacement, Miller Moss is slated to take over. He earned an 89.3 passing grade in the Holiday Bowl win over Louisville."

Per Max Chadwick of PFF

The Trojans will enter the year with a lot to prove, but they wouldn't want it any other way. 2023 humbled this program, and now they will work even harder to reach their goals.