Leadership concern highlighted with latest decision from USC HC

It can be difficult for some to understand why USC is going with a rotating approach at captain. For those doubting this approach, it could speak to an inherent void in leadership among the players. That is not necessarily the case, however.

On the one hand, it does make sense to have a permanent set of people to be named as the leader for the team. There are times, though, when a team will have someone else step up over the course of the season. It also adds an additional motivating factor for student-athletes to want to do well throughout the week and earn the right to walk out for the coin toss before a game.

Ultimately it is something that should not be looked too much into. Particularly within the position groups, there will inherently be someone who is viewed as the person to turn to. Leadership is something that is often recognized by the players well before anyone is handed the 'C' on their uniform.

Those in the locker room know who the main ones are who are spearheading the efforts. What can change is the extent to which someone has their voice being amplified or the way in which someone's presence increases once the games themselves begin.

No reason to be concerned for USC

If coach Lincoln Riley really wanted to have a set display of leadership in the captain roles, he would likely be able to come up with the needed names rather easily.

This speaks more to what the team consensus was and what the pulse of the current team is at the moment. With a long season ahead, different student-athletes will be tested and be forced to step up in ways beyond just their abilities on the field. This leaves coach Riley the option to have wiggle room to allow for such cases to be rewarded with the symbolic recognition.