The USC Trojans kick off the 2022 season and the new Lincoln Riley era with a home game against the Rice Owls.
This is a terrific game for Riley and the Trojans to get things rolling. Caleb Williams, Mario Williams, Travis Dye, and Jordan Addison will all try to establish a rhythm together as they get adjusted to the new offense, and what better way than a home game against Rice?
Jon Wilner of The Mercury News gave his Week 1 Pac-12 predictions and picked USC to win (obviously). However, he is concerned about the first game of the Riley era and if fans will really flock to the Los Angeles Coliseum, especially since it is a 3 p.m. kickoff in Southern California.
For all the excitement about the Lincoln Riley era, we wonder about the attendance with the extreme temperatures expected. Those willing to brave 105 degrees (or more) will see a dazzling start from the Trojans, followed by an uneventful second half.
Wilner has USC winning straight up but also has Rice beating the spread, which is at 33.5 in favor of USC. If the Trojans get out to a massive lead (as we expect), Riley could sit the starters for much of the second half.
The new era is here, and it should begin with a lopsided victory.
Rice will get cooked in more ways than one. Stay hydrated and wear cool, light, white clothing plus a floppy hat if you’re coming to the game.
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