USC Trojans face a pivotal recruiting battle in their 2027 class, with limited spots and elite prospects like Aaron Washington and Osani Gales in the mix. Is Lincoln Riley’s strategy of focusing on high-upside playmakers and targeted transfer portal additions the key to a College Football Playoff run? Mark Kulkin and Brian Smith break down USC’s recruiting priorities, analyze standout talents from IMG Academy, and debate how escalating competition impacts USC's ability to lock down Southern California’s best.

Key discussions include Jontez Williams’ impact in the secondary, whether USC’s wide receiver core can maintain its dominance, and if missing out on top linebackers will haunt the Trojans’ Big Ten debut. Brian Smith shares insider perspectives on culture, player development, and the transfer portal’s role in shaping roster depth. With a fresh look at quarterback recruiting and trench play, the podcast asks: Can USC’s 2026 and 2027 recruiting classes restore championship expectations at the Coliseum?

#usc #uscfootball #uscbasketball #recruiting #transferportal, #Trojans #beattheirish #notredamefightinirish #notrdamefootball #cfp #collegefootballplayoffs #iowahawkeyes #D'antonlynn #defense #FOOTBALL #oregon #ducks #instantreaction #ncaafootball #big10 #big10football #uclafootball #recruiting #reggiebush #heisman #LincolnRiley #nfl #nil #defense #mvp #transferportal #ncaa #pff,

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USC shakes up its coaching staff as Mike Eckler returns from Nebraska to ignite the Trojans’ special teams with his trademark intensity and culture-building energy. Can Eckler’s proven track record—like transforming Nebraska’s special teams from bottom-tier to top-15 nationally—finally resolve USC’s persistent struggles in this crucial phase of the game?

Mark Kulkin unpacks the significance of Eckler’s hire, what his presence means for Lincoln Riley’s strategy, and the emotional exit of ace recruiter Doug Belk. With Gary Patterson expected to be named defensive coordinator and questions swirling about safety coaching changes, Mark Kulkin explores how these moves could impact roster stability, recruiting outlooks, and USC’s locker room dynamic heading into the next season. Will the Trojans’ revamped staff deliver the culture shift and results fans desperately crave?

#usc #uscfootball #uscbasketball #recruiting #transferportal, #Trojans #beattheirish #notredamefightinirish #notrdamefootball #cfp #collegefootballplayoffs #iowahawkeyes #D'antonlynn #defense #FOOTBALL #oregon #ducks #instantreaction #ncaafootball #big10 #big10football #uclafootball #recruiting #reggiebush #heisman #LincolnRiley #nfl #nil #defense #mvp #transferportal #ncaa #pff,

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Gametime
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Turbo Tax
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FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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USC Trojans set to shake up their defensive future as Gary Patterson emerges as Lincoln Riley’s top choice for defensive coordinator. Can Patterson’s legendary 4-2-5 scheme finally create the disciplined, tough-minded defense Trojan fans crave? Mark Kulkin reveals insider information on the coaching search, explores why Patterson’s experience and Big 12 pedigree match USC’s roster, and examines how coaching continuity could lead to quick turnaround on defense.

Find out which Trojans players have the “Mamba mentality” and why Indiana Hoosiers’ national championship run should become USC’s new blueprint for winning football. Key highlights include team culture, practice intensity, and the impact of veteran leadership. With big changes looming, how will USC balance explosive offense with a lockdown defense—and who on the roster will step up to demand championship effort every week?

0:00 — Gary Patterson to USC

Breaking news and confirmation from sources about Gary Patterson becoming USC’s next Defensive Coordinator.

Marc discusses Patterson’s fit, relationship with Lincoln Riley, and defensive philosophy.

13:38 — USC Culture & Roster Toughness

Deep dive into USC’s team culture, accountability, and the mentality of current and incoming players.

Marc explores which roster members would be “offended” by lack of effort, referencing past and present Trojans.

20:51 — Indiana’s Championship & USC Aspirations

Segment paying tribute to Indiana winning the national championship.

Marc analyzes Indiana’s style, culture, and what USC can learn from their physicality and discipline.

#usc #uscfootball #uscbasketball #recruiting #transferportal, #Trojans #beattheirish #notredamefightinirish #notrdamefootball #cfp #collegefootballplayoffs #iowahawkeyes #D'antonlynn #defense #FOOTBALL #oregon #ducks #instantreaction #ncaafootball #big10 #big10football #uclafootball #recruiting #reggiebush #heisman #LincolnRiley #nfl #nil #defense #mvp #transferportal #ncaa #pff,

Everydayer Club
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Gametime
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Turbo Tax
For a limited time, you can have your taxes done by a local TurboTax expert for just $150 — all in, if a TurboTax expert didn’t file for you last year. Just file by February 28. Take taxes off your plate and get back to your life.
Visit https://TurboTax.com/local to book your appointment today.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

LISTEN:

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