USC can't shake its up-and-down identity under Lincoln Riley

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USC football fell to TCU in overtime in the Alamo Bowl. This was one of the more up-and-down performances I have seen in quite some time. It is always hard to get a feel for a team in a bowl game that is not within the College Football Playoff. There is so much roster turnover; there are guys transferring, and there are guys who are declaring for the NFL draft. The Trojans had many such cases, especially on the offensive side of the ball.

Fewer playmakers

Not having Makai Lemon and Ja’Kobi Lane on offense was a weird sight. I could have thought the Trojans had Lane, however, with senior Jaden Richardson making an OBJ-like one-handed touchdown catch. The Trojans have produced many highlight reel plays this season, especially from Lane, none of which came close to Richardson’s touchdown last night. It was nice to see a player like Richardson make the most of his opportunity to shine in the bowl game. There were many other Trojans who stepped up, especially the younger ones, including freshman running back Riley Wormley, who showed some flashes of talent. He almost had a highlight reel catch; unfortunately, it was ruled incomplete.

Jayden Maiava struggled

For the familiar faces on offense, it was a struggle for Jayden Maiava for the majority of this game. Not having his stud receivers and having to work on chemistry on the fly with his younger guys did play a part in that. Maiava had many missed throws, however, and he ended up with two interceptions. This game does not erase the year he had, but it does raise a little concern about next season.

Two dependable Trojans

Two players who will have zero concern about the next season are Tanook Hines and King Miller. The Trojans still had a dominant receiver on the field, and Hines looked just as good as Lane and Lemon. Hines finished the game with 6 catches. 163 yards receiving. He made big play after big play, and I expect him to be that guy next season. Just like he was in many games this season, King Miller was dominant. Miller racked up 99 yards rushing and a rushing touchdown on 25 carries. I am really excited to see him and Waymond Jordan form the best backfield in the country next season. It would have been nice to see Jordan play against TCU, but Miller performed well.

D’Anton Lynn not calling plays

In the first game without D’Anton Lynn, the Trojans’ defense was really aggressive and made many big hits on the Horned Frogs. That aggressiveness was felt until the final play that cost them the game. USC had its moments, but remained inconsistent under new play-caller Eric Henderson.

Way too many mistakes

It was a very disappointing end to a great defensive game given the circumstances. Losing on a 3rd 20 completion for a 35-yard touchdown is unacceptable. The game should have been over much earlier, but the Trojans are no strangers to costly mistakes.

Mixed reaction

Lots of bright spots and reasons for concern exist after this game on both sides of the ball. With all the talent that is coming into this team next year, Lincoln Riley cannot afford to lose any more games like he did versus TCU. This team still needs to learn how to finish games.

Put up or shut up for Lincoln Riley

Lincoln Riley will need to change that very quickly as he heads into Year 5. What was once a successful season ending on that note makes the expectations for next season even higher.

This article originally appeared on Trojans Wire: USC loss to TCU in Alamo Bowl carried familiar Lincoln Riley details

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