Important team aspect from USC's win needs to be acknowledged

The way in which this USC program has come together truly speaks to the reset that has taken place in Troy. This team simply appears more together and is acting like a more cohesive unit.

Perhaps this is a small thing, but the fact that the players wanted to enter the stadium in matching attire helps to illustrate how much higher the chemistry is amongst the Trojans.

This is something that can be seen to one degree or another across many programs in the country. The fact that this initiative was student-athlete-led, however, is an encouraging sign that this team is truly coming together and feels the collective identity of being in the Cardinal and Gold.

Sticking with more of how the game itself unfolded, there was a noticeable drop-off when the starters were subbed out in terms of the high-end potential. Even so, USC did well through all four quarters to keep extending the lead. While Missouri State competed through the entirety of the game and came up with a couple of hustle plays of their own, USC still had a mostly complete performance from all who stepped foot on the field.

Welcomed sights from USC

To see the offensive line not only hold up for a lot of the game but also get a good push on the defense, particularly in the room game, is an aspect that Trojan fans have been wanting to see from this team. Then the way that the defense was able to largely contain the Bears' offense also indicates how much more united the Trojan effort will be in 2025.

Perhaps the biggest sign that this USC team has turned a page is the fact that the Trojans were able to keep pouring on the score regardless of who was out there. Past teams would have eased up and shown signs of complacency. Also, USC nearly broke the school record against a pesky Missouri State that is eager to prove itself speaks volumes.