USC Faces Pressure in First Year of Big Ten Conference Play

With the addition of four new schools, including USC, the Big Ten conference has expanded, raising expectations and putting pressure on Lincoln Riley to deliver success in the Trojans' inaugural season.

The Big Ten conference has undergone a major transformation this year with the addition of four prestigious programs: USC, UCLA, Washington, and Oregon. These esteemed institutions will become first-time members of the conference in 2024, setting the stage for thrilling cross-country football showdowns.

Former Purdue running back and current Miami Dolphins star Raheem Mostert expressed excitement over the new conference alignment, reflecting on potential matchups he would have relished if playing in the Big Ten today. Mostert highlighted the spotlight that would have been cast upon him as a player at Oregon, famous for its partnership with Nike and its eye-catching alternate uniforms.

USC Faces Pressure in First Year of Big Ten Conference Play

Mostert noted the contrasting color schemes between Oregon's vibrant greens and yellows and Purdue's classic black and gold. He narrowly missed experiencing this clash of colors, arriving at Purdue in 2011 after the teams faced off in competitive games in 2008 and 2009.

However, the highly anticipated matchup is scheduled to return this year on October 18th in West Lafayette, Indiana, where the contrasting uniforms will add to the spectacle of a primetime game on Fox.

USC Faces Pressure in First Year of Big Ten Conference Play

Mostert's renewed enthusiasm for his alma mater, Purdue, is evident in his partnership with the Collegiate Licensing Company to promote College Colors Day. This initiative encourages Americans to display their school spirit through apparel, marking the unofficial kickoff of college football.

College Colors Day will celebrate its 20th anniversary on August 30th this year. Mostert expressed optimism about Purdue's prospects under second-year head coach Ryan Walters, describing him as "promising."

As the Trojans embark on their first season in the Big Ten, the pressure is mounting on Lincoln Riley to deliver success. The addition of USC, along with the other newly added schools, has heightened expectations within the conference. Riley's ability to navigate this competitive landscape and guide USC to victories will be closely scrutinized by fans and analysts alike.

The Big Ten conference expansion brings with it a host of new challenges and opportunities for its member schools. With the addition of four powerhouse programs, the level of competition is expected to rise, demanding excellence from teams and coaches. Lincoln Riley and USC will undoubtedly face significant pressure to perform in their inaugural season, but the potential rewards for success in this expanded conference are immense.