The USC Trojans continue to add to their staff as they prepare for the 2025 season. According to Fight On Rusty, Lincoln Riley has added John McDonnell to the staff as a Senior Offensive Analyst. This has been confirmed.
SOURCE: USC has hired 35+ year veteran coach John McDonnell as a Senior Offensive Analyst
— Arrogant Nation✌🏻 (@FightOnRusty) February 28, 2025
McDonnell was previously with LSU and has experience as the OL coach at Washington State, Notre Dame, Purdue, and Stanford#FightOn✌🏻 pic.twitter.com/UWcOcMaacx
USC Trojans Hire John McDonnell As Senior Offensive Analyst
Before we get into McDonnell’s accolades and past experience, let’s answer one simple question. What does a senior offensive analyst actually do?
The person in this position can have a myriad of responsibilities, but the main objective is to assist the rest of the coaching staff with preparation. This can come in the form of analyzing opponents’ game film, scouting opponents, and analyzing player performance. This can be done by way of scouting reports, data analysis, film sessions, etc.
Also Read: Latest USC Trojans Commit Is Recruiting More Talent To Come With Him
In a way, if you think about the role that Jonah Hill plays in Money Ball, it’s a little bit like that, just not in the way of player acquisition.
McDonnell joins USC with over 35 years of experience. He previously served in the same role with the LSU Tigers from 2022-2023. Prior to that, he spent 4 seasons in the Canadian Football League as the offensive line coach for Edmonton and Ottawa.
He spent 29 years in College before moving north of the border, where he coached in 12 bowl games. He had stops at Notre Dame, Stanford, and Purdue, among many others.
McDonnell will bring a new perspective to the offensive staff in their quest for a National Championship.