USC Trojans Football Reflects on Disappointing 2023 Season as They Prepare for Big-10 Transition

In a season filled with high expectations and hopes for the USC Trojans football team, the reality turned out to be quite different. As the 2023 season draws to a close, USC finds itself reflecting on a year that fell far short of their aspirations, leaving fans and analysts disappointed.

Key Takeaways:

• USC Trojans finished the 2023 season with a disappointing 7-5 record, losing five of their last six games.
• Defensive struggles and a problematic offensive line plagued the team throughout the season.
• Star quarterback Caleb Williams is set to head to the NFL, leaving questions about the team’s future.

Despite entering the season with momentum from their impressive 2022 performance, where they came close to reaching the College Football Playoff, the Trojans failed to build on that success. Their final regular-season game was a stark reminder of their struggles, as they walked off the field with a disappointing 7-5 record, far from the lofty goals they had set for themselves.

One of the major issues that haunted USC throughout the season was their defense. Despite early signs of trouble, the team failed to make significant adjustments until it was too late. The defensive shortcomings proved costly in critical games, contributing to their late-season slide.

Additionally, the Trojans’ offensive line woes added to their woes. Even the reigning Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback, Caleb Williams, seemed to regress compared to his previous season’s performance. These issues put immense pressure on the team and made it difficult for them to maintain their early-season promise.

As USC looks ahead to their upcoming bowl game, they face the possibility of key players opting out to avoid injury risks. Williams, who is set to make the jump to the NFL, is among those who may choose to sit out. The uncertainty surrounding the roster adds another layer of complexity to their postseason preparations.

This disappointing season also marks the Trojans’ last year in the Pac-12 conference before their move to the Big-10. If USC hopes to find success in their new conference, they will need to address the glaring weaknesses in their roster that plagued them in 2023. Otherwise, they risk encountering similar challenges in the years to come.