I hope you all had the chance to watch USC’s 45-20 win against Stanford last night. The Trojans’ performance didn’t just push our team to a ranking of 24 in the AP poll, but also represented the return of what we know Trojan football to be (for me at least). The Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, the iconic home stadium of USC football, was once again electric last night. The student section filled before kick-off and remained full until the final score was called.
My friends and I before the USC vs. Stanford game last night!
As an eager high-school senior, I was so excited by USC football. My senior year, USC had just captured a Rose Bowl win for the ages, and I was certain USC would soon become a National Champion. My freshman year, the 2017 football season, USC didn’t quite meet these expectations, but still had a good season, defeating Stanford in the PAC-12 championship but losing to Ohio State in the Cotton Bowl. The home games delivered excitement, spirit, were engaging, and most importantly were a lot of fun.
Last year, however, the tone changed. USC lost to rivals UCLA, Notre Dame, and every PAC-12 school in California, ultimately ending with a losing record. While I would say most USC students are fans through the thick and thin, it was harder to maintain Trojan spirit last year. While I still attended all the home games when school was in session, the Coliseum didn’t have the same fun environment that it did my freshman year.
Miles and me at the USC vs. Stanford last year. Still smiling despite the loss!
With last night’s win, the vibrancy of USC football has returned. While I can’t predict how this season will end, I am happy to have the joy that comes along with a football game in an electrified coliseum back. Trojan football has returned… and win or lose, I have a feeling this season will be fun. As always, Fight On!
