USC Football Prepares for Season Opener with Quarterback Decisions and Player Development

As the USC Trojans gear up for their season opener on September 1, head coach Lincoln Riley appears to be leaning towards naming Miller Moss as the starting quarterback. Moss, who has two years of experience within the system, is expected to take the lead, while newcomer Maiava faces a steep learning curve. The coaching staff is also evaluating who will fill the third spot in the quarterback rotation, with Kyron Hudson emerging as a strong candidate amidst the addition of four transfer wide receivers this offseason. In a notable shift, USC boasts significant depth at the tight end position, a rarity in recent years. Lake McRee, who is recovering from a serious knee injury sustained during bowl preparations, has returned to full participation in preseason activities. Coach Riley expressed optimism about McRee's performance, highlighting his impressive adaptation to the physical demands of the game following his recovery. Defensively, Elijah Paige is recognized for his potential, while Bear Alexander stands out as the most talented player in the group. However, Riley has indicated that the coaching staff is intentionally challenging Alexander during preseason practices, especially since he missed a significant portion of spring training. This camp is crucial for Alexander to translate practice performance into game readiness, with the possibility of him playing multiple positions as needed. Overall, USC's preparations reflect a blend of experience and new talent, setting the stage for an intriguing season ahead.