Program turnaround is underway through current USC approach; winning will come

It is already known that USC has not performed up to the needed levels since coach Lincoln Riley's first year. The program has been in an overall dry spell since the target sanctions by the NCAA. Nothing can be done now to improve the record of past seasons.

Continuing to drive home the fact that last year, for instance, did not go as planned is not helpful. Bringing up past records would be legitimate if the Trojan staff showed signs of stubbornness and insisted on putting their heads in the sand. Instead, from coach Lincoln Riley on downward, USC is going about all aspects the right way and has been making the needed adjustments to mend some of the past shortcomings.

At this point, it is only fair to judge the program based on the efforts that are currently being taken by the Trojans as a whole. When looking at the state of USC from that vantage point, it is impossible to not applaud the ongoing developments that are underway in Los Angeles.

For some, it will not be enough until the results show up on the field. To an extent, that is fair. After all, that is how success is ultimately defined.

That can be true while also acknowledging that the correct course of action is being taken by the Trojans across all fronts at the moment. This also needs to be mentioned. Some people are strictly results-oriented. While that is a fine worldview to have, it often misses the 'how' and fails to appreciate the work and process that are always required to take place before results show up.

Taking an objective look at the state of USC

Failing to recognize the undertakings and corrections of this USC staff is wholly incomplete. Everyone wants to win. Going about achieving that aim involves multiple steps and a painstaking, consistent process.

Years of not meeting the standard cannot be erased in one year, let alone during one offseason. It is, of course, unknown what 2025 will bring. That is true of all teams every year. What is more important is that USC is using the right sustainable approach that will allow the Trojans to more consistently be competitive and start accumulating wins. This truth needs to be acknowledged and appreciated.