Caleb Williams is a college football quarterback who plays for the USC Trojans in the Pac-12 conference. He transferred from Oklahoma in 2022, where he was the starter for one season. Williams is one of the nation’s most talented and exciting players, leading the Trojans to a hot start in 2023.
But why did Williams transfer to USC? What was his reasoning behind the decision?
Why Caleb Williams Transferred to USC
Williams entered the transfer portal on Jan. 3, 2022. He said he wanted to explore his options and find the best place for his professional development. He had no shortage of suitors, as several top programs, including Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana State, Ohio State, and Wisconsin, expressed interest in him.
However, Williams ultimately followed his former coach Lincoln Riley to USC. He announced his transfer on Feb. 1, 2022. He said he chose USC because of his relationship with Riley, who had recruited him to Oklahoma and helped him develop as a quarterback. He also said he was impressed by USC’s tradition, fan base, and location.
Williams strongly connected with Riley, who is regarded as one of the best offensive minds and quarterback gurus in college football.
Riley had coached three Heisman Trophy winners (Baker Mayfield, Kyler Murray, and Jalen Hurts) and two No. 1 overall draft picks (Mayfield and Murray) at Oklahoma.
The esteemed coach would help Williams become a Heisman Trophy winner and an All-American in 2022 when he threw for 4,537 yards and 42 touchdowns with only six interceptions. He also ran for 10 rushing touchdowns.
Williams wanted to continue his working relationship with Riley at USC, where he could further improve his skills and prepare for the NFL Draft. Additionally, he also wanted to be part of Riley’s vision to restore USC’s glory and compete for national championships. He said he was excited to play in front of the passionate Trojan fans and enjoy the sunny weather of Los Angeles.
Williams’ decision to transfer to USC was a huge boost for the Trojans, who had struggled in recent years under former coach Clay Helton. Williams instantly became the face of the program and the team leader.
Likewise, he attracted other top recruits and transfers to join him at USC, such as wide receiver Mario Williams, running back MarShawn Lloyd, and defensive end Korey Foreman.
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Williams immediately showed his impact on the field, leading USC to an 11-3 finish in 2022 and earning the distinction as QB1 for the 2024 NFL Draft for our scouting team. He’s in the midst of an even better season in 2023 than his incredible sophomore campaign.
At this rate, he’ll once again be in New York as a Heisman finalist at the end of the season and could become the second player ever to win the award twice in his career (Archie Griffin).
Meanwhile, Oklahoma replaced Williams with former UCF QB Dillon Gabriel. Gabriel is one of college football’s most accomplished passers, but even he doesn’t quite hold a candle to Williams’ natural acumen and ability. It’s not Gabriel’s fault, but Williams is a rare talent.
