In a December bowl game, USC had a roster change, with back-up players taking on leadership roles for the first time. This change in leadership led to an impressive victory, solidifying team unity. As the offseason began, coach Lincoln Riley introduced a new system of naming captains weekly based on merit. The USC Trojans’ captains for a big Week 1 matchup against LSU are Moss, Monheim, Arnold, Mascarenas-Arnold, and Hudson.
Riley emphasized the importance of earning captainship every week, highlighting the team’s commitment to unity and togetherness. The team’s approach to leadership has been intentional, passing on certain talents that didn’t fit the locker room culture during the transfer portal window.
The players have universally praised the improved team unity compared to the previous season, with linebacker Gentry expressing how much more fun he’s having. The team’s focus on unity and camaraderie stems from the Holiday Bowl victory and the changes in leadership since then.
Injuries were minimal during fall camp, with key players like Branch, Shelby, and Talalele expected to be active for the upcoming game. Overall, USC is setting the tone for the 2024 season with a focus on merit-based leadership and team unity as they prepare for a challenging matchup against LSU.
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