Locked On USC - Daily Podcast on USC Trojans Football & Basketball

USC Trojans draw national attention as a respected coach claims they’re “bigger than Alabama, Texas, LSU, and Ohio State” in the trenches. Could USC become the Big Ten’s next powerhouse bully? The conversation focused on USC’s physical transformation, dominant defensive line, and standout performances from rising stars—especially freshman impact players and surging talent like Corey Simms. Key themes include the buzz surrounding the Bloom Football Performance Center, updates on Killian O’Connor’s new role after surgery, and insights into how Gary Patterson is shaping the defense. With mock game week kicking off and the opener against S...

Lincoln Riley faces a pivotal decision as USC Trojans prepare to unleash a dynamic freshman class headlined by Trent Mosley, Boobie Feaster, and Zacharyus Williams. Will Riley risk these elite playmakers on special teams, or prioritize keeping them fresh for explosive offensive contributions? The conversation focused on special teams roles, position battles, and the risk-reward of exposing key freshmen to high-impact plays.

A key theme that emerged was the ongoing skepticism surrounding USC’s national relevance, highlighted by surprising omissions from a major top-100 college football player list. The discussion explored perceived bias against USC, player ranking co...

Big Ten challengers slam SEC supremacy as preseason poll debate heats up. Can Michigan and Oregon silence doubters and reclaim conference bragging rights? The Big 10 Squad calls out SEC bias in the On3 preseason Top 25, question Florida’s ranking, and dissect how brand bias skews College Football Playoff perspectives. The team roasts Purdue Athletic Director Tommy McClelland’s bold jab at Indiana’s championship pedigree, with reactions spanning ridicule to strategy breakdowns. Plus, the spotlight shifts to Oregon’s daunting 10.5 win total—the hosts break down the Ducks’ season outlook, key matchups against Ohio State and USC, injury updates, and title-or...

USC's 2026 freshman class is turning heads—are true freshmen about to reshape the 2026 season? Marc Kulkin spotlights breakout talents like Luke Wafle, Boobie Feaster, Trent Mosley, and Mark Bowman, each poised for immediate impact far beyond special teams. With speed, skill, and depth, these newcomers add a new spark to the Trojans’ roster and challenge upperclassmen for starting roles as USC preps for its opener against San Jose State.

The running back room is heating up with King Miller’s “chip on the shoulder” mentality and Waymond Jordan’s dynamic return from injury. Marc Kulkin highlights inside sources, pra...

The Trojans offensive line is facing mounting questions at center as they gear up for a critical Coliseum scrimmage with just 17 days until their showdown with San Jose State Spartans. With Killian O’Connor sidelined for the 2026 season, all eyes are on Tobias Raymond to anchor the offensive line and maintain continuity during fall camp. Can this reshuffled unit protect quarterback Jayden Maiava and set the tone up front?

Marc Kulkin breaks down USC’s pre-scrimmage depth charts, spotlighting key contributors like Desman Stephens at linebacker and breakout freshman Kaden Dixon-Wyatt in the receiver room. The episode expl...

Big Ten coach fires shots at USC as Marc Kulkin reveals anonymous claims that Lincoln Riley "has no idea what he's doing" with quarterback Jayden Maiava. Is Riley's reputation as a quarterback guru under threat, or will this bold criticism fuel the Trojans’ bounceback? Get the latest locker room insight, including strong opinions on past matchups with Iowa’s Kirk Ferentz and speculation over which coach is behind the eyebrow-raising quote.

Marc also breaks down Mike Ekeler’s high-energy approach to special teams and linebacker development, with detailed praise for position coach AJ Howard and strength coach Trumai...

The USC Trojans defense is clamping down in fall camp as Gary Patterson’s aggressive approach transforms the secondary into a no-fly zone. Can Alex Graham and Prophet Brown anchor a revamped safety room and push USC toward Big Ten dominance?

Marc Kulkin breaks down standout performances from freshmen like TomTom Topui, Madden Riordan and Luke Wafle, and other rising stars along the defensive line, and key offensive line updates in the wake of Killian O’Connor’s injury. Insights include inside reports from practice, Ja'Kobi Lane’s early impact with the Baltimore Ravens, and fan reactions to bold...

USC ignited some quarterback buzz as Lincoln Riley offers 2028’s first scholarship to Texas standout Trey Wright. With eye-popping stats—5,800 total yards and 43 passing touchdowns—Wright’s dual-threat potential and 4.7 GPA make him a compelling future leader for USC’s offense. But will he be the only QB Riley pursues, or is a new recruiting strategy brewing for the Trojans? 

Marc Kulkin breaks down Wright’s fit in the Big Ten, the changing landscape of quarterback recruiting, and the rising significance of NIL and the transfer portal. Key insights include comparisons to Kyler Murray, analysis of USC’s current QB ro...

USC faced a season-altering setback as starting center Killian O'Connor suffered a devastating leg injury, marking the end of his USC football career. Can the Trojans’ revamped offensive line—led by Elijah Page, Hayden Treter, Tobias Raymond, Alani Noa, and Justin Tauanuu—rise to the challenge with fall camp reshuffling in full swing?

Marc Kulkin tours the state-of-the-art Bloom Football Performance Center, revealing how its recovery tech and amenities could become USC’s secret weapon for player development and recruitment. The episode explores Lincoln Riley’s vision, adversity-tested team culture, and how the Trojans must adapt to maintain c...

ESPN faces backlash over unchecked SEC bias, stirring questions about college football media narratives. The Big 10 Squad debates Peter Burns’ misleading SEC vs. Big Ten strength of schedule claims, examining how media giants influence perceptions and why networks like Fox and CBS hesitate to match ESPN’s promotional energy for the Big Ten. Ohio State’s and Penn State’s identical 9.5 win totals spark heated predictions. The roundtable breaks down Ryan Day’s daunting schedule—including Texas, USC, Oregon, and Michigan—and evaluates whether the Buckeyes can surpass lofty expectations or stumble amid fierce competition. Insights into Penn State’s revamped roste...

The Trojans surge into the College Football Playoff conversation as Marc Kulkin and Brett Ciancia from Pick Six Preview spotlight Lincoln Riley’s pivotal offseason moves and the program’s elite 2026 recruiting class. With Gary Patterson now orchestrating the defense and Mike Ekeler bolstering special teams, can USC’s blend of blue-chip talent and fresh coaching ignite a true national title run? The podcast breaks down USC’s formidable schedule, anticipated battles against Oregon, Ohio State, and Indiana, and the critical role of ranked wins in playoff selection.

Marc Kulkin and Brett Ciancia debate whether the Trojans can fina...

USC'S’ running back tandem could be Lincoln Riley’s best ever — is a run-heavy attack on the horizon? Marc Kulkin and Chris Trevino scrutinize the rapid development of King Miller and Waymond Jordan, weighing their potential to eclipse past Oklahoma greats Joe Mixon and Samaje Perine. The hosts break down offseason gains, Miller’s power transformation, and how these changes could shift USC’s offensive identity in the upcoming Big Ten battles.

Key discussions include position battles likely to stretch into the non-conference slate, standout performances from freshmen like Trent Mosley and Boobie Feaster, and insights from defensive...

The USC Trojans helped reignite college football’s greatest rivalry with a four-year series against Notre Dame, set to resume in 2030. Can the Trojans turn early-season clashes with the Fighting Irish into a playoff advantage—or will tradition clash with evolving postseason stakes? Key questions swirl as both teams balance rivalry history with the growing impact of Big Ten scheduling and playoff expansion.

Marc Kulkin offers insider coverage from USC Media Day, spotlighting Lincoln Riley’s strategy, the impact of Gary Patterson’s old-school toughness on player development, and standout talents like Elijah Paige and Hayden Treter. The conv...

The Trojans face a make-or-break Fall Camp as transfer wide receiver Terrell Anderson fights to secure his spot among a loaded receiver corps. With talented returners like Zacharyus Williams and rising second-year players Corey Simms in the mix, Anderson’s gamble to leave NC State sets the stage for a fierce competition in Los Angeles. Can he thrive under the pressure and become a primary target in Lincoln Riley’s evolving offense?

Host Marc Kulkin spotlights other crucial battles, including Alani Noa's push to reclaim the right guard position and Jahkeem Stewart’s role in shaping USC’s defens...

As the USC Trojans gear up for a breakout season the freshmen wide receivers will try and seize their shot during fall camp. With injury updates on Tanook Hines and Roderick Tezeno, Marc Kulkin highlights how player development and depth are shaping the team’s early momentum. Coach Lincoln Riley praises the physical transformation of early enrollees, hinting that several freshmen are poised to make a significant impact. 

Accountability and improved team cohesion set the tone, while leadership from standouts like Tucker Ashcraft and Zacharyus Williams gives fans plenty to be excited about. Lincoln Riley calls the new...

USC has emerged as a dark horse in the Big Ten race, powered by a revamped and experienced defensive line. Can Lincoln Riley's squad ride their new defensive depth to a playoff berth? Marc Kulkin predicts a 10-2 finish for USC, spotlighting key clashes against Ohio State, Penn State, and crosstown rival UCLA, while challenging the Trojans to prove their defensive mettle against power runners and elite offenses.

Jayden Maiava’s leadership, a healthy offensive line, and running backs King Miller and Waymond Jordan Jr. headline USC’s offensive arsenal, but Marc insists the real difference-maker lies in t...

The Trojans new roster realease reveals some dramatic offseason transformations as fall camp opens, spotlighting standout gains and losses across the roster. Are these physical upgrades the missing piece for a College Football Playoff run? Marc Kulkin highlights the impressive work of Coach Trumaine Carroll and the strength staff, with names like Madden Riordan, Mark Bowman, and Jide Abasiri making critical strides. Key position battles heat up as depth chart questions linger, while veterans like Elijah Vaikona and Jamaal Jarrett reshape their roles through significant weight changes.

Lincoln Riley’s candid Big Ten Media Day comments further fu...

The USC Trojans entered Big Ten Media Day with renewed swagger as head coach Lincoln Riley, now joined by defensive guru Gary Patterson, exudes confidence about the upcoming season. With Riley declaring “we are well equipped” and the program boasting top-tier facilities, the Trojans are eyeing a return to championship form. Can USC’s bolstered defensive line—anchored by Jide Abasiri and the intense Alex VanSumeren—finally match the offense’s firepower?

Marc Kulkin and Chris Trevino break down Riley’s candid reflections, highlight key quotes from player representatives, and discuss USC’s standing in the Big Ten preseason ra...

USC and Penn State’s Big Ten showdown in October promises fireworks as D’Anton Lynn faces his old team in a game that could reshape the college football landscape. Can Penn State’s stacked secondary and new quarterback Rocco Becht disrupt Gary Patterson and USC's defense, or will Jayden Maiava and the Trojans’ balanced offense silence a hostile 'Whiteout' crowd?

Marc Kulkin and Locked On Nittany Lions host Zach Seyko break down the key matchups: the impact of Penn State’s veteran defensive backs Marcus Neal and Jeremiah Cooper, USC’s revamped wide receiver corps, and how new defe...

USC faces its most pivotal season yet as Lincoln Riley steps into Big Ten Media Days with more than promises—expectations for victory have never been higher. Can Riley finally turn high-profile recruiting, transfer portal upgrades, and staff shakeups into results USC fans can believe in? Marc Kulkin examines whether USC’s offensive firepower, led by third-year starter Jayden Maiava, and revamped defensive front can silence doubts and deliver playoff contention.

Key topics include USC’s experience-versus-age debate, top returning starters like Waymond Jordan, and special teams improvements under Mike Ekeler. With questions swirling around physicality in the tr...

Is Lincoln Riley’s “quarterback whisperer” reputation fading as USC football faces a recruiting crossroads? With no quarterback commits for the 2027 cycle and limited activity for 2028, speculation swirls about a new transfer-focused strategy and the impact of NIL on USC’s recruiting priorities. What does this shift mean for Jonas Williams, Alex Medyn, and the future of the Trojans’ quarterback room?

Marc Kulkin breaks down USC’s evolving approach to quarterback recruiting, potential transfer portal targets, and sets ambitious position group goals as fall camp approaches. The episode spotlights running back yardage targets, wide receiver expectations, and defensive be...

SEC eyes breakaway league as Michigan, Ohio State, and the Big Ten respond—are seismic changes ahead for college football's powerhouses? The Big 10 Squad dissects SEC’s rumored solo championship ambitions and ESPN FPI’s controversial ranking of Ohio State’s brutal schedule. The crew questions the legitimacy of an SEC-only title, debates Michigan’s 8.5-win total under new head coach Kyle Whittingham, and analyzes key matchups against Oklahoma, Oregon, and Penn State. Rosters, coaching shifts, and quarterback Bryce Underwood's development take center stage as the Wolverines look to stay at the top of the Big Ten. Can Michigan exceed exp...

USC's’ stacked 2026 recruiting class looks set to shake up the depth chart—can these true freshmen make an immediate impact? Marc Kulkin and Chris Trevino break down which newcomers like Luke Wafle, Mark Bowman, and Trent Mosley are poised for day-one contributions, and which players may still need time to develop. The hosts intensely debate position battles, highlight special teams standouts, and spotlight the unique challenges facing summer enrollees such as Boobie Feaster, all while exploring how the nation’s No. 1 class can raise the Trojans’ expectations.

Off the field, Hermosa Beach becomes the backdrop for USC’s "Competi...

Some of USC's’ unsung veterans gear up for breakout seasons as Marc Kulkin spotlights Prophet Brown, Walter Matthews, and Carson Tabaracci—players poised to ignite in 2026 after overcoming injuries and setbacks. Can these experienced Trojans turn patience into explosive on-field results and reshape the team’s Big Ten narrative?

Marc also delivers an in-depth look at USC’s pre-fall camp offensive depth chart, analyzing quarterback battles and the crowded wide receiver room featuring Tanook Hines and Terrell Anderson. The episode covers how Athlon Magazine forecasts USC as must-watch TV, with marquee matchups against Oregon, Washington, Penn State, and Ohio...

USC'S playoff hopes hinge on second-year breakout stars—can Jahkeem Stewart, Corey Sims, and Tanook Hines rise to the challenge? Marc Kulkin assesses how USC’s youthful roster, brimming with 14 second-year players, must step up for a serious 2026 College Football Playoff run. From Stewart’s need to anchor the defensive line to fierce competition at wide receiver and running back, USC’s player development becomes make-or-break.

Marc also unveils his initial defensive depth chart ahead of fall camp, spotlighting key positions like linebacker and safety. Listener emails spark discussion on player rankings, the impact of NIL on recruiti...

The Trojans are eyeing a breakthrough season—can Hayden Treter, Desman Stephens II, and Kameryn Crawford spark a playoff push under Lincoln Riley? Marc Kulkin spotlights the Trojans’ key names under pressure to elevate their game, from offensive line shakeups with Justin Tauanunu to defensive standouts like Alex Graham and breakout candidates in the linebacker and edge rusher rooms. The show explores how individual development could shift the balance in the Big Ten and why the safety position remains under the microscope in Gary Patterson’s 4-2-5 scheme.

Recruiting heats up as USC battles for top 2028 prospe...

USC continues to ramp up its recruiting dominance as Lincoln Riley and his staff target elite wide receivers and defensive backs for future classes. Is this the most talented two-year stretch at the position in USC history? Marc Kulkin and Scott Schrader spotlight rising stars like Roye Oliver and Quentin Hale, examine Keaton Fields’ top-100 potential, and debate which high-profile four-stars could become five-stars before signing day. USC’s focus on quality over quantity could signal a new recruiting gold standard under Riley.

Scott Schrader shares insider notes from the Arizona recruiting scene, analyzing the Trojans’ strategy for cl...

Ohio State’s Julian Sayin fuels early Heisman buzz—can Ryan Day’s revamped offense deliver another Big Ten title? Host Spencer McLaughlin puts Locked On’s Big Ten experts on the spot, challenging hot takes about the Ohio State Buckeyes’ quarterback play, Iowa Hawkeyes’ QB battle, and Washington Huskies’ locker room dynamics. Insightful banter erupts around which teams could break through daunting schedules and which dark horses might disappoint. Main conversations include Penn State’s favorable slate under Matt Campbell, Iowa’s search for improved passing efficiency, and whether Northwestern could play spoiler with Chip Kelly guiding the offense. Debates s...

This year's Trojans’ offensive line could be Lincoln Riley’s best yet—can Elijah Paige stay healthy and anchor a dominant front to spark a championship run? Marc Kulkin highlights why Paige’s performance, Jayden Maiava’s decisions under pressure, and depth at key spots will be pivotal, while intriguing names like Mark Bowman and Terrell Anderson fuel debate about breakout stars.

On defense, USC’s hopes rest on new additions like Alex Van Sumeren and Jontez Williams, with linebacker play and edge rusher battles set to define the Trojans’ ceiling. Can Gary Patterson’s aggressive style transform turnov...

The Trojans eye redemption as they host Washington Huskies in a high-stakes Big Ten showdown. Can Lincoln Riley secure the win one week after the they host Oregon, or will Jedd Fisch and Demond Williams propel Washington to a fourth consecutive victory over USC? The battle features explosive young receiver talent, veteran quarterbacks in Jayden Maiava and Williams, and two retooled, ambitious defenses led by Gary Patterson for USC and Ryan Walters for Washington.

Marc Kulkin and Roman Tomashoff break down roster transformations via the transfer portal, key storylines like Deven Bryant’s transfer, and whether Washington’s do...

USC's 2027 recruiting class faces intense national pressure as rivals target top commitments like Honor Fa'alave-Johnson and Josiah Poyer. Can Head Coach Lincoln Riley and recruiting ace Chad Bowden lock down elite talent amid a shifting NIL landscape and rising competition from powerhouses like Texas? Key prospects receive NIL boosts, but is winning enough to protect the Trojans’ future star power?

Marc Kulkin and Chris Trevino break down updated recruiting rankings, spotlighting Jace Cannon’s leap to four-star status and Drew Fielder’s rapid rise among offensive tackles. Insights from the Battle at the Beach uncover emerging playmakers in the...

USC's recruiting class takes a surprising dip despite Jace Cannon’s major four-star bump—does a higher player ranking still guarantee team momentum? Marc Kulkin unpacks the latest 2027 Rivals rankings shakeup, spotlighting Honor Fa'alave-Johnson’s NIL deal with Destination Kia and dissecting why key prospects like Gavin Williams saw puzzling drops. As teams like LSU rise in the rankings without new commits, questions swirl about the value and volatility of star ratings and NIL’s direct impact on recruit valuation.

Early FanDuel betting lines for USC’s Week Zero and Week One matchups heat up the debate: will the T...

USC's recruiting pipeline heats up as future stars shine at the Battle of the Beach 7-on-7. Can young standouts like Honor Fa' alave-Johnson and Quentin Hale anchor the nation’s next top recruiting classes? Marc Kulkin spotlights elite prospects from 2027 to 2030, including Jalen Flowers and Jordan Hicks, while breaking down how USC’s pursuit of linemen could shift 

Hot takes fly as Marc Kulkin predicts Gary Patterson’s defense may eclipse Lincoln Riley’s high-powered offense, the Trojans’ run game asserting dominance, and a return to double-digit sack production not seen since the days of Shaun Cody and Kenechi...

Lincoln Riley’s coaching reputation faces a pivotal season after ESPN’s top head coaches poll leaves the USC Trojans’ leader outside the elite 12. Can Riley silence the critics and reclaim his spot among college football’s best? Marc Kulkin explores the national narrative, challenges the SEC-centric rankings, and debates the metrics behind placing names like Lane Kiffin, Mike Elko, and Steve Sarkisian above Riley.

USC’s 2026 schedule offers a strategic edge—hosting powerhouses Ohio State, Oregon, and Washington at the Coliseum, where Riley boasts a dominant 50-7 home record. With a veteran offensive line and Heisman contender Ja...

On3’s latest quarterback and receiver rankings spark heated debate—can elite quarterback-receiver duos truly explain team success, or do inconsistencies between individual and duo rankings leave fans scratching their heads? The Locked On Big Ten Squad analyzes controversial placements: Why is Jayden Maiava ranked third among Big Ten quarterbacks, yet his top wideout drops to an honorable mention? Does the meteoric rise of Purdue’s Josh Hoover and Nick Marsh make sense, or is it pure off-season hype? Attention shifts to the Iowa Hawkeyes’ win total—set at 7.5 by FanDuel. Can Iowa’s new-look offense and a lean senior class...

The Trojans will  brace for a high-stakes clash against the Fresno State Bulldogs as powerhouse coach Matt Entz seeks to make a statement in his PAC-12 debut. Can the Bulldogs run game—led by Rayshon Luke and Bryson Donelson—exploit USC’s inconsistent run defense and deliver the conference’s first marquee upset? Questions swirl around Fresno State’s new quarterback Kristian Martin, while the Bulldogs’ top-ranked secondary eyes USC’s passing attack.

Marc Kulkin and Christian Rauh break down why this Friday night showdown at the LA Coliseum is more than just another non-conference test. Key topics include...

The Trojans face a pivotal crossroads—will 2026 or 2027 be the year they reclaim championship glory? Marc Kulkin and Chris Trevino dissect roster projections, quarterback Jonas Williams’ rapid development, and the implications of a stacked 2026 recruiting class. With the NCAA’s new age-based eligibility rules transforming player usage and the transfer portal looming, the pressure mounts for elite freshmen to deliver immediate results.

Key conversations center around Jaden Maiava’s evolving national reputation, the chemistry with wide receiver Tanook Hines, and USC landing on JD PicKell’s Top 10 QB-WR duos list. Insightful takes on Lincoln Riley’s offseason strategy, NI...

Could USC’s 2026 football season be defined by the grit of its linemen rather than star skill players like Jayden Maiava? Marc Kulkin spotlights Elijah Paige, Jahkeem Stewart, and Desman Stephens, arguing that a dominant offensive line and physical defense could be USC’s ticket to national relevance. Will the Trojans’ “dirty work” players finally bring home awards like the Joe Moore and elevate USC’s toughness in marquee matchups against Oregon, Washington, and Penn State?

Marc also shares exclusive updates on the Bloom Football Performance Center’s opening, detailing how the new state-of-the-art facility will fuel recruiting, pl...

USC faces mounting pressure to start the season strong with five of their first six games at the Coliseum—will anything less than a 5-1 record fuel disappointment? Marc Kulkin breaks down USC’s revamped offensive strategy under Lincoln Riley, spotlighting the pivotal roles of King Miller, Waymond Jordan Jr., and Jayden Maiava, and predicting a renewed commitment to the run game and play-action to open up explosive passing opportunities.

Recruiting momentum stalls as high-profile legacies like Paisios Polamalu chooses rival Stanford, and the Trojans drop in national rankings. Can Chad Bowden and the staff flip top targ...

The battle for the West Coast football crown intensifies when the USC Trojans prepare to host the Oregon Ducks at the LA Coliseum—a matchup loaded with playoff implications and recruiting stakes. Can Lincoln Riley deliver the signature win USC fans crave, or will Dan Lanning’s powerhouse Oregon squad maintain dominance in the Big Ten? The episode spotlights quarterbacks Dante Moore and Jayden Maiava, returning offensive lines, and the escalating rivalry fueled by off-season recruiting wars.

Marc Kulkin and Spencer McLaughlin break down offensive matchups, defensive line battles between NFL-caliber talents like Matayo Uiagalelei and A' Maur...