Significant developments revealed in 1st USC depth chart release

It had already been announced that Killian O'Connor would be the opening starter for USC. Still, seeing the former walk-on's name officially as the first-string center is truly admirable and is something that Trojan fans alike are happy to see for the redshirt junior.

For the most part, the initial depth chart of the 2025 season that was released shaped up the way many expected. One of the significant listings, however, has a true freshman in the starting role.

Tanook Hines is a starter, as he has been named as the Trojans' WR3. Hines has edged out Prince Strachan and Zacharyus Williams, both of whom enter the program with more experience. To see Hines already listed as a starter speaks to the preparation of the young wideout from Texas.

Now slated to play alongside Makai Lemon and Ja'Kobi Lane, he will be able to see his fair share of opportunities and targets in this coach Lincoln Riley system.

The players and staff have raved about how good Hines is looking early on. USC is unquestionably WRU. While the two top options in Lemon and Lane will leave Troy following the conclusion of this season, to see a true freshman already being trusted and being in a position to gain a ton of early, valuable experience is going to serve as the backbone for the wide receiver room for a long time to come.

Good corps at key position for USC

Focusing on 2025, it speaks exceedingly well to the talent at USC that Williams and Strachan are going to be backups. A school like Ohio State may have the most top-end talent at receiver with Jeremiah Smith, but the depth for the Trojans is highly impressive.

It is known and established as to how important the passing game is in coach Riley's offense. All five options will have their opportunities to make some big-time plays for USC this season.