Important component of game management will need to be improved for USC to win

During coach Lincoln Riley's current tenure at USC, the team has seemingly found ways to get worse each year. Granted, the extent and margin of many of the losses had the Trojans right within striking distance. Still, the ultimate way in which anyone is judged is through wins and losses.

Something that absolutely cannot happen now is the sight of USC taking further steps back. Regression is not something that can be witnessed from the Trojans in 2025.

The way in which coach Riley has approached the offseason, though, should be enough for USC to have an improved record.

Imagine for a moment, however, if the Trojans go, say, 6-6 during the regular season; the ability to only just qualify for a bowl game would not be enough to silence the noise and desire among the fan base to see coach Riley leave Troy.

To prevent the situation from getting to the point of being untenably uncomfortable, the offensive and defensive lines in particular have been improved. This aspect alone should be able to greatly assist the Trojans in their pursuit of returning to greatness.

New conference helps USC

At the end of the day, the Big Ten games will come down to late-game execution. It is unreasonable to expect the Trojans to be able to create a large lead during the first three quarters to avoid close games down the stretch. This is a conference that is too competitive and does too good of a job to shorten games with teams that simply know how to stick around.

If looking at this from a positive aspect, the only way to get better at something is through reps. USC being placed in positions repeatedly in which they will need to close out close games is going to benefit the program long-term. Particularly when considering that the ultimate goal is to be an annual national title contender, USC being in this position is going to be a help.