The USC Trojans‘ offensive line has been in a state of flux this offseason. Outside of Elijah Paige and left tackle, just about every position felt up for grabs.
Then the Trojans were able to gain the commitment of former Syracuse offensive lineman J’Onre Reed, and it felt as if the center position had been solidified.
Apparently, no one told former walk-on Kilian O’Connor that.
All through spring and fall camp, O’Connor and Reed battled for that spot. Many in the fan base, and in the media, found all of that to be smoke, but still, O’Connor’s name kept coming up.
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After practice on Tuesday, head coach Lincoln Riley confirmed that Kilian O’Connor would be the team’s starting center in Week 1.
Riley states in his presser that Kilian O’Connor will start Week 1 at center against Missouri State #USC
— Chris Treviño (@ChrisNTrevino) August 27, 2025
Kilian O’Connor Named USC Trojans Starting Center
This is a huge accomplishment for the former walk-on, and is not something that anyone should take lightly. He earned the opportunity to run out of the tunnel as the start in week one.
That said, during his appearance on Trojans Live on Monday, Riley did mention that he expected both O’Connor and Reed to play against Missouri State.
The question now is, will that be with the 2s, or will there be a rotation with the 1s to see which combination is best? Or, could we see Reed play some left guard as he does have some position flex?
During USC Media Day, Reed was asked what the hardest part of coming to USC and starting at Center was, and his response was (paraphrased), beating out that guy, pointing across the room to O’Connor. He spoke about having an immense respect for the type of player that he is, his work ethic, and how he acts as a leader.
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We will soon find out how everything will look, but what an accomplishment for Kilian O’Connor. It’s one that he can’t relish in, but will undoubtedly remember for quite some time.