Coach Lincoln Riley could have a 'Mero Ison package' ready for USC offense in 2025

A quarterback's best friend can sometimes be someone who just has the ability to stretch the field. Finding a wide receiver whose speed allows him to get open and ultimately force a double team allows for the big completion early on and then routes underneath to open up as well.

That is the exact skill set the incoming USC freshman Mero Ison can provide for the Trojan offense this year. Coming out of Milford Mill Academy in Maryland, Ison was rated as a four-star recruit in high school.

Now, the speedster will look to show his top velocity and elusiveness in the open field in coach Lincoln Riley's system. Air-raid elements will always play a heavy part in this offensive scheme. Taking advantage of space and setting up ball carriers in a position to gain yards after the catch through playcalling is something that is going to be an important focus for the Trojans.

Ison is someone who can take the top off a defense. On shorter routes and in the return game, he is someone who uses his balance and athleticism well to churn out extra yards when others would be stopped in their footsteps.

He will only be in his first full year in the Trojan program. Even so, many are understandably excited about Ison joining and lining up, giving Jayden Maiava a consistent deep threat option to seemingly always be able to turn to.

Potential early opportunities for incoming USC freshman

It can be difficult for a first-year player to make an immediate impact. In that regard, the old expression 'speed kills' should come to mind. Putting too many early expectations on the young wideout would be unfair. Because of his talent and when he is entering college, it would not and should not come as a surprise to anyone to see coach Riley draw up some early deep looks for Ison.

For someone who will come to the USC campus with a high degree of skill already, there is a fairly high ceiling when looking at what will ultimately be possible for Ison as a Trojan.