USC's Rising Stars: The Impact of Assistant Coaches on Team Success
Great teams are not just built on the head coach and coordinators, but also on the excellence of assistant coaches. USC's head coach, Lincoln Riley, has assembled a top-notch coaching staff for the 2026 season, including rising stars like Chad Savage, Trovon Reed, and Zach Hanson. Savage, the inside receivers/tight ends coach, has made a significant impact on recruiting, helping secure top talent like Mark Bowman and Kayden Dixon-Wyatt. He has also played a key role in developing players like Makai Lemon, who won the Biletnikoff Award and was drafted into the NFL. Savage's success has earned him a promotion to pass game coordinator and he continues to excel in recruiting top talent for USC.
Trovon Reed, the cornerbacks coach, brings a wealth of experience as a former five-star recruit and national champion. His genuine relationships with recruits have been instrumental in USC's recruiting success, landing top prospects like Elbert “Rock” Hill and Marcelles Williams. Reed's coaching has helped players like Williams grow and excel on the field, contributing to the team's defensive success. With his track record of success and authenticity, Reed is poised for a bright future in coaching.
Zach Hanson, the tight ends coach turned offensive line coach, has also made a significant impact on USC's recruiting efforts. His ability to recruit top talent like Keenyi Pepe and develop players like Breck Kolojay has strengthened the team's offensive line. Hanson's background as a former All-Big-12 offensive lineman brings valuable expertise to the coaching staff, contributing to the team's success on the field. As USC continues to build a strong coaching staff, Hanson's contributions are key to the team's growth and development.
In conclusion, USC's coaching staff is filled with rising stars like Chad Savage, Trovon Reed, and Zach Hanson, who have played crucial roles in the team's success. Their recruiting prowess, player development skills, and coaching expertise have helped elevate the Trojans to new heights. With a talented coaching staff in place, USC is well-positioned for continued success in the seasons to come.