The State of Troy | Jan. 21: USC Football Update, House Settlement & Los Angeles Wildfire Relief

USC Athletics | January 21, 2025

Trojan Family,

I hope this edition of The State of Troy finds you well, though I know so many Trojans have been impacted by the fires across Los Angeles this month. Our student-athletes, coaches, and staff have been highly engaged in supporting our community, and I am proud of the way our Trojan Family has stepped up for those in need.

There are two specific USC-related efforts that you can support should you be inclined: the Trojan Family Relief Fund and the LA Strong campaign. The Trojan Family Relief Fund will provide direct support to USC students, faculty, or staff members affected by the wildfires. Additionally, Fanatics has partnered with USC and multiple LA sports organizations to design “LA Strong” merchandise, and all proceeds will go directly to the American Red Cross and the LA Fire Department Foundation.

On behalf of the Trojan Athletics Family, know that our hearts are with you, and USC Athletics is united in offering support to our amazing community.

So much has happened in our community, within our department, and across college athletics since my last State of Troy. As we enter this new year, I want to touch on some important topics that will impact USC Athletics not only in 2025, but in the years to come.

TROJAN FAMILY RELIEF FUND BUY ‘LA STRONG’ T-SHIRT

Update on Trojan Football

Following our victory over Texas A&M in the Las Vegas Bowl on December 27, our football program has been focused on assembling its 2025 roster and coaching staff. We have signed many talented high school and transfer players, addressing roster needs and boosting talent in many important positions. Thanks to a robust and highly competitive NIL program, I feel confident we have the support and resources to compete at a championship level.

We have filled three important coaching positions with our newest hires. Rob Ryan, our linebackers coach and assistant head coach for defense, is a Super-Bowl winning coach with 24 years of NFL experience – 17 as a coordinator – and brings invaluable experience and knowledge to our staff. Chad Savage, our tight ends and inside receivers coach, is a rising star in college football circles with established relationships and proven success recruiting California. Zach Hanson takes over as offensive line coach after three seasons…