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The Trojan football program has had its number of ups and downs this year. With all of the coaching changes, injuries, and tough loses USC took, the future looks bright. For a team that started off being ranked eighth in the country to not being ranked by the end of the season, there was one big factor that must be taken into account: the young talent.
The new faces from the 2015 season were able to contribute to some amazing moments last season. Here are some of the notables that we look forward to help continue the 2016 championship hopes
Ronald Jones (Running Back): The stud from Texas displayed his amazing athleticism by breaking the school freshman rushing record and earning Pac-12 Honorable Mention honors. Much will be expected from Jones as the running game will be key for USC this season. Though it is very early in his career, many comparisons have be made to former Trojan Reggie Bush. Sounds pretty scary for opposing defenses.
Iman Marshall (Defensive Back): Coming in as the nation's top cornerback two years ago, Marshall has continued to keep the great tradition of Long Beach Poly football players to USC. His physical style of play and ball awareness showed that the secondary will be in good hands for the next few years. His two interception game against UCLA was one of the special moments of 2015 that leave us excited about what is yet to come.
Cameron Smith (Linebacker): The only thing that could keep Smith from dominating opponents last year was a knee injury that ended his season against Colorado. He was on pace to become the first true freshman to lead the Trojans in tackles. The Pac-12 Defensive Freshman of the year was all over the field proving he could match up against any defense. His three interception game against Utah was his coming out party which also tied a school record.
Dominic Davis (Running Back): Davis is another explosive back who will share carries with Jones. His elusiveness will be key for the rotation in the backfield which adds plenty of speed. He is also a sprinter of the USC Track team so expect to hear a lot about Davis all year long.
With the 2016 Recruiting class looking strong as well, the Trojans are one of the nation's top teams to make a run at a conference and national title as well. Fight on!