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'My Guys Will be Ready' Rob Ryan Sends Strong Message on USC Linebackers

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Lorenzo J. Reyna | Last updated Jul 29, 2025 9:03 PM ET

Rob Ryan has fired up new energy for USC Trojans football this fall. The longtime NFL assistant is back in the college game for the first time since 1999.

However, he's dealing with more than coaching players he's not entirely familiar with. Ryan is coaching one of the more inexperienced units on the Trojans.

Eric Gentry fuels some intrigue for this unit. But the rest of the LB spots are up for grabs. Ryan already hears the criticism and doubts for his 2025 USC LBs in discussing this year's team.

“I mean, you know, I think when you look at that, like people say, ‘Well, they’ve only got the one guy who played,’ I get it, you know," Ryan began during USC's media day held Monday.

But he likes the attitude of this group.

"Nowadays, these kids are smart. They play hard," Ryan said. "When they put that ball down, they blow the whistle."

That's when Ryan fired off the stirring message to anyone doubting this group's potential.

"My guys will be ready," Ryan predicted. "And, I mean, I know what it’s going to look like, you know. Say whatever … I’m going to say something like … My group’s going to be great, and we’re going to get after [it]. If they don’t like it, then fire me, because I know we’re going to be good. We’re young, (but) we’re young and talented."

Ryan only has three redshirt seniors this fall including Gentry. Ryan Quintanar is one other RS-senior but mostly played special teams. He arrived via TCU in 2024. Anthony Beavers is the final senior here.

Ryan concluded that "people will be excited about the way these young men play.” He's instilling new enthusiasm for this LB unit after a 26-season absence from CFB.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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