UPDATE: Former USC star LenDale White boldly predicts that the Trojans will secure their first-ever berth in the College Football Playoff this season. Speaking exclusively to TMZ Sports at LAX, White expressed unwavering confidence in head coach Lincoln Riley and the team’s potential to turn around after a disappointing 7-6 record last year.
As the countdown to the new season heats up, White stated, “I feel like my Trojans will be in the College Football Playoffs. I believe in Lincoln. I believe we got some guys around here that’s gonna get the job done.” With the season opener against Missouri State set for Saturday, July 29, 2023, excitement is building among fans and players alike.
Despite the optimism, questions loom over Riley’s future as head coach. After three subpar seasons, expectations are high, and both fans and university officials are demanding results. White, however, argues that the scrutiny may not be entirely fair, given the evolving landscape of college football. “When you’re a Trojan, we’re supposed to win. We’re expected to win,” he acknowledged. “But in this new day and age of the college athlete who can transfer out whenever they feel like it, it’s not always the coaches’ fault.”
White’s perspective highlights a significant shift in college sports, where player transfers and NIL deals have transformed the competitive environment. He recalls a time when legends like Pete Carroll and Nick Saban shaped the game in a vastly different context, with stricter transfer rules and no financial incentives for players.
As the Trojans prepare to kick off their season, the stakes are higher than ever. With an expanded playoff format allowing for 12 teams to compete for the national title, White believes USC is primed to make history. “When you can’t keep these players or keep the guys around because they’re running away from competition, I can’t always put it on the coaches,” he added, underscoring the challenges faced by today’s coaching staff.
Fans eagerly await the start of the season as the Trojans aim to shake off last year’s disappointments and embrace a new chapter under Riley’s leadership. Will LenDale White’s prediction hold true? With the season just days away, all eyes will be on USC as they strive for greatness.
For more insights, White also shared thoughts on fellow USC alum Reggie Bush and his performance in the upcoming film “Happy Gilmore 2.” For the latest updates on USC football, stay tuned as we continue to follow this developing story.