USC football's past villain status compares to current Dodgers image

The Los Angeles Dodgers have embraced their villain status in baseball, a role once held by USC football two decades ago. The Dodgers, now seen as disliked by many outside Los Angeles, thrive on this perception, reminiscent of USC's dominance in college football during the 2000s under Pete Carroll. Stars like Matt Leinart and Reggie Bush helped USC create a reputation that captivated fans, drawing viewership with hopes of their defeat. Recently, the Trojans lost some of that villainous edge, but a revival in performance under head coach Lincoln Riley could see this narrative return. USC fans remain hopeful for a resurgence that may rekindle their image as college football's villains.

• 4:01 PMYahoo Sports — Like the current Dodgers, USC football was once the West Coast villain