TLDR: USC Trojans face a pivotal 2024 season debuting in the Big Ten Conference. The team must clinch early wins, starting with a crucial season opener against LSU, to dispel naysayers doubting Lincoln Riley’s prowess against SEC teams. The matchup provides an opportunity to showcase their strength against a rising SEC opponent and to prove Riley’s strategy effective. Furthermore, an upset win over Penn State will help affirm their Big Ten credibility. Lastly, beating Notre Dame remains essential to cement USC’s position in both the rivalry and the broader football scene. These victories are critical for the Trojans aiming for College Football Playoff contention.

USC’s journey into the Big Ten is set for August 2nd, and it’s shaping up to be anything but a stroll in the park. With a daunting nine-game conference schedule and two non-conference clashes that could get any college football fan’s adrenaline pumping, USC fans are in for a wild ride. The buzz surrounding Lincoln Riley’s future with the Trojans is palpable, making it even more critical for USC to step up and deliver in 2024. Let’s be honest, the expectations may not be for double-digit wins or eyeing the Big Ten crown immediately, but an at-large bid in the newly expanded College Football Playoff remains within reach—a hopeful target for this team.

The kickoff to USC’s season is particularly nails-biting with LSU as their week one adversary in Las Vegas. Riley’s equanimity amidst the reminiscent tune of “Lincoln Riley is afraid of the SEC” adds spice to this encounter. I’m here to say it: there’s hardly anything as satisfying as seeing a coach icing critics right out the gate, and that’s exactly what a win against LSU would entail. Forget narrative-setting SEC fans and embrace the opportunity to prove USC is ready to tangle with the best. LSU’s recent fumbles in their initial neutral site games offer a glimmer of hope for the Trojans to repeat history in their favor.

As the Trojans march forward in their new conference, a landmark on October 12 could set the tone for their Big Ten journey. It’s Penn State that falls under the microscope here. This game is one they must notch a victory in if USC’s reputation in the conference is to solidify. Skeptics who eye USC as newbies in this league will have to reassess should Riley’s men shine, especially when the combatants include a near-vanquished roster from Michigan and a grueling battalion from Wisconsin. The people over at Fox Sports might not offer them the Big Noon spotlight, but who cares when you’re busy crafting your legacy?

Then there’s the timeless chance to beat Notre Dame, a match every USC fan marks in emphatic red on their calendar. Let’s face reality—the rivalry doesn’t take breaks, and neither should the Trojans. With the Irish taking the upper hand in recent matchups, the scene is ripe for USC to swing the pendulum back on the West Coast. It’s essential not just for pride but for strategic positioning within the final season rankings. Besides, beating Notre Dame could silence chatter about the Irish eventually cozying up to the Big 12 if these tales enter anyone’s ears out there.

Capping off 2024 with a win against Notre Dame would truly signal USC’s readiness to reclaim its stature while welcoming their foothold in the Big Ten era. Riley’s strategic prowess and the team’s resilience will be crucial to not only overcome these milestones but to shut down any doubts about the Trojans’ capacity to compete with the best. So, buckle up Trojan nation; this season has excitement written all over it. Here’s hoping Trojan fans reserve a front-row seat for what’s bound to be a season to remember in USC’s illustrious football history.