As spring football heats up across the nation, new faces are stepping onto college campuses, looking to make an immediate impact. One of the most anticipated transfers this spring is wide receiver Duce Robinson, who made the move from Florida State to the University of Southern California (USC) in hopes of continuing his football career at the next level. The transition has been exciting for Robinson, a talented wide receiver known for his athleticism and explosive ability to stretch the field. After Florida State’s fifth spring practice, Robinson sat down with the media to discuss his move to USC, the challenges of adjusting to a new program, his goals for the future, and how he plans to contribute to the Trojans’ high-powered offense.
The Transition to USC: Adjusting to a New Program
Duce Robinson’s decision to transfer from Florida State to USC was not one made lightly. Transferring programs can be a daunting process, requiring athletes to adjust to new coaches, teammates, systems, and environments. For Robinson, however, the transition to USC has been relatively smooth, thanks in part to the welcoming culture fostered by head coach Lincoln Riley and the Trojans’ coaching staff.
Robinson acknowledged that while it was tough leaving Florida State, he felt USC provided the best opportunity for him to grow both as a player and as a person. “It was a tough decision, but I feel like I made the right choice. USC has such a rich football tradition, and when I visited, I could tell that this was the place where I could take my game to the next level,” Robinson said during his press conference after practice.
He went on to explain how the move to a new program has presented challenges, particularly in terms of learning a new offensive scheme and adjusting to a new coaching style. “There’s always an adjustment period when you come to a new place. The playbook is different, the terminology is different, and the way the coaches run practices is different,” Robinson noted. “But the coaching staff here is amazing, and the way they’ve supported me and the entire wide receiver group has made the transition smoother. It’s a work in progress, but I’m getting more comfortable every day.”
One of the biggest changes Robinson has had to adapt to is the pace and intensity of practices at USC. Under Riley’s leadership, the Trojans’ practices are known for being fast-paced and high-energy, designed to replicate the up-tempo nature of the team’s offense. For a player like Robinson, who thrives in a fast system, this has been an exciting development. “I love the pace here,” Robinson said. “It’s all about speed, execution, and precision. You have to be mentally sharp and physically ready to go. It’s the type of environment I thrive in.”
Learning From the Best: A Competitive Wide Receiver Room
One of the most exciting aspects of Robinson’s move to USC has been joining a wide receiver room that is brimming with talent. The Trojans have some of the most explosive wide receivers in college football, including Jordan Addison (a former Biletnikoff Award winner), Mario Williams, and Brenden Rice. For Robinson, getting the chance to practice alongside these players has been an invaluable learning experience.
“Coming here, I knew I’d be around some of the best wide receivers in the country, and it’s been great to learn from them,” Robinson admitted. “Guys like Jordan and Mario have been really helpful in teaching me little things about route running, footwork, and just how to prepare for games mentally. I’m just trying to soak it all in and take notes from these guys. There’s a lot of experience in this room, and I’m excited to see how we can push each other to get better.”
Robinson also touched on the culture of competition within the receiver room. “It’s competitive, but it’s a healthy competition. We all push each other to be better every day, and that’s the way it should be. When you have that level of competition, it makes you a better player. I’ve been learning a lot about the little things that can make a big difference on the field, and it’s just exciting to be a part of this group.”
Despite the high level of competition, Robinson remains confident in his own abilities. His athleticism, ability to make plays after the catch, and deep-threat potential have made him an exciting addition to the Trojans’ roster. “I feel like I bring something a little different to the table. I have a lot of versatility and can play inside or outside, and I can stretch the field with my speed. I just want to make plays and help the team win games.”
The Influence of Lincoln Riley: A Coach Who Gets the Best Out of Players
One of the biggest factors in Robinson’s decision to transfer to USC was the opportunity to play under head coach Lincoln Riley, one of the most innovative offensive minds in college football. Riley’s reputation for developing quarterbacks and wide receivers, combined with his ability to build high-scoring offenses, played a significant role in Robinson’s decision to make the move west.
“I knew coming here that I’d be in a system that is designed to make wide receivers successful,” Robinson explained. “Coach Riley is known for his offensive schemes and for developing players at my position. It was a big reason I chose USC. His offense gives wide receivers the opportunity to make big plays, and I wanted to be a part of that. Every day, I see why he’s so successful. He has a way of bringing the best out of his players, and I’m excited to work with him and the rest of the coaching staff.”
Robinson specifically mentioned how Riley’s ability to tailor the offense to the strengths of his players has helped him grow as a wide receiver. “Coach Riley does a great job of adjusting the offense to fit each player’s strengths,” Robinson said. “Whether you’re a speed guy or a possession receiver, he knows how to put you in the right spots to succeed. I’m learning a lot from him, and it’s making me a better player. I know if I work hard and keep improving, I’ll be able to contribute to this offense in a big way.”
Looking Ahead: Goals for the 2025 Season and Beyond
As spring practice continues, Duce Robinson is focused on preparing himself for the upcoming 2025 season. With high expectations surrounding the Trojans and a talented roster in place, Robinson understands the importance of his role within the offense. He is determined to make an immediate impact while continuing to develop his game.
“My biggest goal for this season is to continue improving every day and earn a spot in the rotation,” Robinson said. “This offense has so many weapons, and I just want to contribute however I can. Whether it’s making a big catch, blocking for my teammates, or helping the team in any way possible, I want to be a part of this offense and do whatever it takes to win games.”
Looking beyond the 2025 season, Robinson is also focused on his long-term goals. As a former five-star recruit, he has the potential to be one of the top wide receivers in college football, and eventually, he has his eyes set on a future in the NFL. “I’m just taking things one day at a time, focusing on the present and trying to get better every day,” Robinson said. “But I’m also aware of the bigger picture. I know that if I work hard and stay focused, the opportunities will come. I just want to make the most of this time at USC and get to the next level.”