The injury to Kilian O’Connor, a seasoned lineman who had been slated to anchor the Trojans’ center spot through 2025 and 2026, has opened a vacancy that the coaching staff is now trying to fill.
A setback on the line
Rather than seeking an external replacement, the program is turning its focus inward, giving snaps to a group of players who have already seen limited action on the line.
Tobias Raymond, who spent the previous season at guard, brings a blend of size and experience that could translate well to the interior, while redshirt freshman Kaylon Miller has logged ten games of collegiate play and is eager to prove he can handle the snap count.
True freshmen Willi Wascher and Kannon Smith are also in the mix, each looking to translate their preseason preparation into meaningful minutes as the Trojans experiment with different combinations.
Adding another layer to the narrative, the university is exploring a medical redshirt for O’Connor, a pathway that could see him back on the field in 2027 if his recovery progresses as hoped.
Head coach Lincoln Riley has spoken about the need for continuity and competition, emphasizing that the internal options will be given every chance to earn the starting role.
The broader strategic shift reflects a willingness to adapt the offensive scheme, as the Trojans look to maintain their rhythm despite the setback.
Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as the spring practices unfold, knowing that the outcomes could shape the team’s performance in the upcoming season and beyond.