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USC Football: Caleb Williams Opts Out of Bowl Game

Originally posted on USC Trojans on SI | By Matt Levine | Last updated Dec 4, 2023 1:40 PM ET

While there has been much speculation about what USC Trojans quarterback Caleb Williams would do for the team's bowl game, we now have the answer. Williams will miss the bowl game after opting out, head coach Lincoln Riley confirmed that he won't play, per Greg Beacham of The Associated Press:

Caleb Williams isn't playing in the Holiday Bowl, USC's Lincoln Riley confirms.
— Greg Beacham (@gregbeacham) December 4, 2023

This always felt like where his decision was heading, especially given the meaningless nature of the game. Williams is expected to be the first overall pick in the upcoming 2024 NFL draft, so it makes sense for him to preserve his health.

Williams spent two seasons with the Trojans and was one of the better quarterbacks in program history. He won the Heisman Trophy last season and was a big reason why many saw the Trojans as potential title contenders this past season.

He followed up his Heisman-winning season by throwing for 3,633 yards and 30 touchdowns. While the team didn't have a great season, Williams still showed up.

Williams helped the Trojans stay in plenty of games this season and even saved them in a few. But he couldn't do it alone, and the offensive line struggles did get to him at different times.

While there is always a chance that he could return to school next season, it's most likely that he will be heading to the NFL. Fans would have loved to see him suit up one more time for the Trojans, but it wasn't meant to be.

If this is it for Williams at USC, we thank him for all the memories and always giving it his all. Good luck in the NFL going forward.

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This article first appeared on USC Trojans on SI and was syndicated with permission.

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