Important developments showing up early give optimism for USC fans

In order for any team to find success in college football, the play of both the offensive and defensive lines has to be at a high level. This is something that has often frustrated USC fans.

Through the first two games, however, the Trojans have indeed displayed the improvements that this staff has been talking about through the spring.

On defense, the Trojans have shown an early ability to collapse the pocket and make life difficult for the opposing quarterback. While it can be difficult to form a full analysis of anything during non-conference games against weaker opponents.

Even so, the defense is looking like it is going to be able to set the tone on that side of the ball. For a team that is still asking some questions in the secondary, USC's consistent presence in the backfield could end up being good enough to iron over the initial shortcomings.

When then looking at the offense, it is clear that the offensive line is going to be good enough to spring any of the talented running back options loose.

So far, the unit has also done well in keeping Jayden Maiava upright. Pass protection is going to be even more important when the heavier portion of Big Ten play is in full force.

Potential aspects to look forward to for USC

Overall, this is a positive development. Toughness and grit are qualities that teams with championship aspirations need to have. While the Trojans are not exactly in a position to have title aspirations. At this point, there are increasing signs indicating that USC is not too far away from being legitimately in those types of conversations. 

Coach Lincoln Riley has done well in terms of looking at areas that needed improvement and has done even better to do something to address the concerns of the program.