USC Football: Why Trojans' CFB Aspirations Are All But Dead
With their loss to Notre Dame this past weekend, the USC Trojans hopes to reach the College Football Playoff were put on life support. While they still can technically reach the Playoff if they were to win out, and then win the Pac-12, the chances of practically that happening are low, writes Matt Zemek of Trojans Wire.
“Real talk: USC is not a College Football Playoff team. Let’s be clear: The Trojans are still in the Pac-12 race and can still win the conference championship, which would be a big deal. That’s something to play for.”
The Trojans defense has been a problem all season long, and it doesn’t seem to be getting any better. The team was held up by their high-powered offense and when that offense finally had a poor showing, it was curtains for the Trojans.
The way the Trojans play football isn’t a sustainable game plan to win at the highest level, and they will need to rethink their strategy going forward.
"Let’s not sugarcoat it. USC is soft. For most of the season, the defense was soft, but against Notre Dame, the offense was soft. USC just doesn’t have championship toughness."
Reigning Heisman Trophy winner Caleb Williams struggled against the Fighting Irish, putting up his worst game as a member of the Trojans. It was poor timing for it to happen, but it was bound at some point. Even the greats have a bad game every now and then.
The Trojans margin for error is that much smaller now, and they have to take each game at a time going forward. If they were to lose one more game, their chances to win a National Championship would be officially over.
The schedule doesn't let up down the stretch either, so the Trojans may be in some trouble. They have the tools to navigate through the storm, but it remains to be seen if they can do so.
Don't forget to join our community at LA Sports Report, where we celebrate all things Trojans!
