Saturday’s college football lineup featured numerous upsets, with USC’s 24-17 defeat to Minnesota being particularly notable. The Trojans, who entered the game ranked 11th, have now fallen out of the AP Top 25, and national commentators are criticizing Lincoln Riley’s team.
Why @colincowherd is concerned for USC after loss to Minnesota @JLabAudio pic.twitter.com/NzpaUaPzpV
— The Volume (@TheVolumeSports) October 7, 2024
Colin Cowherd from The Volume pointed out USC’s struggles on the offensive line, stating, “USC has only two viable tackles on the roster, and one of them isn’t effective. Their left tackle, redshirt freshman Elijah Paige, isn’t performing well, although he represents the future. His backup is also a redshirt freshman, only 6-foot-2, and a center; they lack a suitable backup left tackle.”
Despite Trojans quarterback Miller Moss being sacked just once, he faced significant pressure from the Golden Gophers’ defensive line, contributing to his two interceptions. This season, the junior has been either sacked or hit 22 times and pressured on 49 dropbacks, leading the Big Ten.
“You can’t claim to be USC when teams like Oregon or Ohio State have six tackles over 6-foot-6,” Cowherd added. “USC has just two playable tackles, a backup center masquerading as a left tackle, and a right tackle who’s not ready for the field.”
This loss could jeopardize USC’s chances of making the College Football Playoff, and Cowherd holds Riley responsible. “In this NIL era, given USC’s brand, that’s Lincoln’s fault. It’s not good enough. They simply lack elite players. Even with some wind, there’s no excuse for your offense scoring just 17 points against Minnesota. It’s a terrible loss.”
Will the Trojans be able to enhance their pass protection this season?
USC football may need to use creative schemes
USC has discovered the hard truth that a strong offensive line is essential for success in the Big Ten. Coach Lincoln Riley attributes the team’s protection struggles to facing skilled pass rushers and the natural dynamics of football, as reported by Sports Illustrated’s Kyron Samuels.
“Of course, you’d prefer to leave every game with your quarterback not taking any hits, but that’s not always the reality,” Riley stated. “We faced two strong teams with solid defenses, and that’s something that can happen. While we definitely want to improve, it’s a collective effort. Everyone is involved—schematically, Miller is involved, as well as the receivers, backs, tight ends, and of course, the O-line.”
To help quarterback Miller Moss have a bit more time in the pocket, Riley may implement more max protection schemes. However, with No. 4 Penn State next on the schedule, the challenge for the offensive line is only set to intensify.
