Joel Klatt interested to see what Miller Moss' first start looks like for USC

Fox Sports’ Joel Klatt can’t wait for Miller Moss’ first start as USC quarterback in the Holiday Bowl. But, this could be a long term audition for 2024.

Moss appeared in nine games over the course of three seasons but registered pedestrian stats. He is 43-of-59 passes for 542 yards and three touchdowns.

But he gets a big time opportunity under the bright lights against No. 16 Louisville Wednesday.

“Miller Moss is making his first start for USC,” Klatt said on his podcast. “I’m interested to see what that looks like. You know, I mean, again, USC, I don’t want to say they’re a mess right now. But it’s just like, boy, there’s a lot of moving pieces with USC. Transfers out, transfers in what are they going to look like a year from now? Can they fix the defense? Will they be as good on offense? 

“Is Miller Moss a guy that can compete for and win the job next year? You know, this is a great audition right there. This is a great audition and that will take place in San Diego in the Holiday Bowl.”

As a member of the Class of 2021, Moss was a four-star recruit out of Mission Hills (Calif.) Bishop Academy, according to the On3 Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies. He was the No. 7 overall prospect in the state, the No. 11 quarterback in the class and the No. 79 overall prospect in the class.

Speaking with the media, Moss explained some of the key differences in his preparation being the starting quarterback, versus what it was like as the No. 2.

“It’s obviously different,” Moss stated. “I think the only real difference is that I have more dialogue and say with Coach Riley over the game-plan. But aside from that, I attack my preparation the same way.

“Because in that role as No. 2 quarterback, you always have to be prepared. So I’ll prepare the same way. I’ll lead the same way. I’m just excited again for this opportunity.”

However, Moss doesn’t feel like an imposter as the Trojans’ starter. The quarterback added that he’s beginning to feel more like himself than he has in awhile, and that’s a positive development for USC.

“I think if anything I’ve felt more like myself than I’ve ever have,” Moss elaborated. “I don’t think it’s like a concerted effort. I feel comfortable enough in that position. I feel like the locker room responds well to that.

“Hopefully they do, or else we’ve got bigger problems. But it’s been a fun opportunity. I look forward to continuing to be in that role.”