USC Trojans Reframe Bye Week as Standard Practice After Upset of Ohio State
Coach Lincoln Riley says the program is altering its schedule and rest periods to avoid a repeat of the loss to Wisconsin.
By Jonathan Reed ·
USC football is currently in the week between games, but the Trojans have dropped the term bye week in favor of a standard week. The change in terminology follows a 24-7 defeat to Wisconsin last month, a loss that occurred after a road win against Penn State.
Head coach Lincoln Riley stated that the team is implementing changes to the schedule, rest periods, and practice content for the current week. He noted that there are more differences between this week and the previous bye week than there are similarities. Riley said the approach is being adjusted regardless of the outcome of the previous game or the identity of the upcoming opponent.
Safety Christian Pierce described the new routine as a standard week. He said the team attacks the week in the same manner as any other week, with the only difference being the mindset and daily approach. Running back King Miller added that the program has established a baseline performance level that no individual can drop below. He said the players know the standard and aim to improve in areas both inside and outside the facility.
The Trojans enter this week with momentum after an upset victory over No. 11 Ohio State on Saturday. Ohio State was ranked No. 2 at the time of that game. USC is now 7-2 overall and 4-2 in the Big Ten. The next contest is a road game against defending national champion No. 6 Indiana, which is 8-1 and 5-1 in conference play.
Practice on Wednesday included playing Indiana’s entrance music and chanting Hoosier slogans on the field. These activities signal preparation for the upcoming matchup. USC is ranked No. 20 in the initial College Football Playoff rankings. The team must win its remaining games to secure a spot in the 12-team playoff. The schedule includes a home game against 2-6 Maryland and a road game at 8-0 No. 5 UCLA.
Two USC players are semifinalists for the Shaun Alexander Freshman of the Year Award. Receiver Trent Mosley is an all-purpose player with 512 receiving yards on 32 catches and six touchdowns. He also returned eight punts for 212 yards, including an 86-yard return. Defensive end Luke Wafle leads all FBS freshmen with 23 quarterback pressures. He has 36 tackles, 8.5 tackles for loss, and three sacks. Three finalists will be named on Dec. 3, with the winner announced on Dec. 28.
