The No. 17 USC Trojans are determined to secure a spot in the College Football Playoff this season. Under the guidance of head coach Lincoln Riley, they hold a 7-2 record. This is a significant improvement from last season, where they finished with 7 wins and 6 losses in their inaugural year in the Big Ten.
USC’s Star Player: Makai Lemon
Makai Lemon, a standout wide receiver, is a key factor in the Trojans’ aspirations. In his third season with USC, he has emerged as one of the premier wide receivers in college football. With impressive stats through nine games, Lemon leads the Big Ten with 61 receptions, totaling 937 receiving yards and seven touchdowns. He ranks third nationally in touchdowns this season.
Impact Performance Against Northwestern
In USC’s recent victory against the Northwestern Wildcats, Lemon showcased his abilities once again. He recorded 11 receptions for 161 yards and one touchdown, marking his fourth game with over 100 receiving yards this season. This performance was particularly crucial as the team needed success after struggling to incorporate him in previous games.
Upcoming Challenges for USC
- USC will face the No. 21 Iowa Hawkeyes this Saturday at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.
- The Trojans also have looming clashes against No. 8 Oregon and their traditional rivals, the UCLA Bruins.
With two losses this season, the Trojans aim to win all their remaining games to enhance their playoff chances. Their toughest test is the upcoming matchup against Oregon on November 22. Success in these games will largely depend on Lemon’s contributions.
Potential NFL Draft Prospect
As his performance continues to impress, there is growing speculation about Lemon’s future. Many analysts believe he could be a first-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft due to his talent and speed. He is currently tied for first in Pro Football Focus grades among college wide receivers this season.
The connection between quarterback Jayden Maiava and Lemon is pivotal for the Trojans. Their chemistry will be vital as USC aims to execute their strategy against Iowa this weekend. The game is set to kick off at 12:30 p.m. PT and will be broadcast on the Big Ten Network.
