Elijah Paige at left tackle gives USC an offensive line centerpiece to build around

Having the left tackle position solidified for USC is absolutely essential. Fortunately for the Trojans, Elijah Paige, though only a redshirt sophomore, is someone who provides experience to the offensive line in 2025.

A highly rated recruit coming out of high school, Paige is poised to have an increased effect on how the Trojan season plays out this year. 

Coach Lincoln Riley feels confident and knows that Paige is someone that he and Jayden Maiava will be able to rely on. The unit as a whole will be reshuffled from last year. The mainstay of his presence at that position helps to fill that area of need on the offense.

Not only does the blindside of the quarterback need to have someone that can keep a right-handed quarterback from taking a big hit without being able to brace for it, but defenders on the other side are becoming increasingly dynamic.

The other team will often put their best EDGE rusher on the right, looking to exploit a matchup that then results in a big play for them. A left tackle needs to be able to handle stunts and win one-on-one matchups without also needing a chip or guard to help out.

Looking what is in-store after USC

In many respects, the lineman at LT can be left on something of an island. With Paige there for USC, however, there is a high degree of faith and trust in his ability to hold up in protection. While he will be entering his third year in the program, when watching how Paige conducts himself around the team and how others speak of him, it feels more like someone who is a season away from entering the NFL.

At this moment, that may be too early to think about, but it won't be for too much longer. While Paige is still at USC, Trojan fans will enjoy having him on the team. His attributes and upside could very easily see his name called on a certain NFL stage down the road as well.