The No. 55 is an iconic jersey for USC football, one which should be cherished and honored. But the Trojans hesitation to put it back into circulation isn’t the right play.
On Wednesday, after much speculation that five-star linebacker Palaie Gaoteote could be awarded the number, it was revealed that he will wear the No. 1 instead.
In a perfect world, the No. 55 would be earned by a deserving player. Perhaps that’s what Clay Helton and company are waiting for.
Of course, the last time that topic came up, the idea of Cameron Smith adopting the number drew criticism ahead of the 2016 season.