Lincoln Riley says 'championship window' is now open for USC Trojans

The USC Trojans are one of the most storied programs in college football history, with 11 national championships in school history. However, despite having a Heisman Trophy winner in 2022 with quarterback Caleb Williams, and being ranked No. 6 in the nation going into the 2023 season, the Trojans haven't sniffed a spot in the College Football Playoff during the Lincoln Riley era in Los Angeles.

According to the head coach, though, that's changing.

In an interview with On3 this week, Riley said he believes USC's championship window is finally open once again, something that he had to fight hard to do.

“Taking this over, you knew you had to go fight like hell just to try to get this window opened,” Riley said. “And we’re at a point right now where there’s a lot to be excited about and a lot in front of us. It’s been a lot of work for a lot of people, a lot of commitment from a lot of people to get there, and it should be a lot of fun these next few years.”

Going into this season, the Trojans have veteran quarterback Jayden Maiava returning, as well as RBs King Miller and Waymond Jordan. The defense also has some talent, despite losing players to the NFL this offseason, with Penn State's Zuriah Fisher and Washington's Deven Bryant coming in to help things. According to the Trojans are No. 20 in the nation this year, seemingly disagreeing with Riley's "championship window" expectations.