The USCTrojans' offense gets a lot of love for the explosive playmakers and elite quarterback the Men of Troy have. More credit needs to go to how solid the Trojans' offensive line is. The offense for USC is fueled directly by how good the front five is.
Here is my midseason report card for the USC Trojans offensive line after the first 7 weeks of college football:
Elijah Paige - A
Elijah Paige has been banged up recently, and he missed the past game against Penn State. Prior to that, Paige is listed as the 2nd highest-graded tackle in all of college football according to PFF. He is one of the best players on the entire Trojans team. His dominance is on full display each and every game. He has taken that next step. Jayden Maiava and the Trojans offense will have the firepower needed to take on the best of the Big Ten with him back in the fold.
Tobias Raymond- A
Tobias Raymond was put in a tough position to start the season, and his versatility was further put to the test. With his play at center, he has helped mold this offensive line into the dominant unit it has been this season. He is a strong candidate for MVP on this team. Without a strong center righting the ship, the rest of an offensive line will fall apart. That has not been the case because Raymond has been stellar.
Hayden Treter - A
Treter has been getting it done in the run game. He is a big reason the holes have been there for King Miller and Waymond Jordan. When the Trojans run behind Treter, there is huge success. His 91.4 run-blocking PFF grade against Rutgers perfectly reflects this. King Miller had 102 yards on the ground in that game. His physicality sets the tone for the Trojans' offensive line, and he will be a fun player to watch against the upcoming competition.
Alani Noa- B+
Alani Noa's experience has been huge for this offensive line. He has been the perfect complement to the ascending young players and other veterans like Elijah Paige. Noa has been exactly what the Trojans have needed on the offensive line this season.
Justin Tauanuu- B+
Tauanuu has gained valuable experience this season and has proven to be a quality starter at the tackle position. He has given the Trojans stability, and his development has been great to watch this season. He will be a dominant force next season.
Vlad Dyakonov - A+
Elijah Paige missed the last game due to injury, and Vlad Dyakonov more than just filled in on the road against Penn State. The freshman delivered and played a part in Jayden Maiava only getting sacked once. No penalties, clean game, and he had quick thinking, falling on a fumble and saving the Trojans from a turnover. He didn't flinch in his first start, and he may have built a case for himself to be added to the starting lineup sooner than expected. Nonetheless, the excitement is through the roof with him.
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This article originally appeared on Trojans Wire: Midseason report card grades for USC football offensive line