LOS ANGELES — As the 94th meeting between Southern California and UCLA approaches, familiar sentiments echo through the week, emphasizing the intense rivalry. Bruins coach DeShaun Foster reminded fans about the fierce emotions that come with the game, stating, “There’s going to be a lot of emotion playing, and guys are going to be fired up, because there’s nothing like playing against your friends or people you know.” Foster himself experienced the rivalry first-hand during his time as a running back between 1998 and 2001, where his record was 1-3.

Trojans wide receiver Kyle Ford offers a unique perspective on this clash, having played for both teams. After spending his first three seasons at USC, Ford transferred to UCLA in 2023 for a brief period before deciding to return to the Trojans for one final year. Reflecting on his experiences, Ford noted, “I don’t think this week ever gets too normal, especially the last three.” His recent history includes victories over USC in the past two matchups, including a thrilling 48-45 win at the Rose Bowl in 2022 that marked the rise of quarterback Caleb Williams as a Heisman Trophy favorite.

Ford cherishes that game, recalling, “I tell everyone, that’s, like, one of the most fun games I’ve ever played in. Not just because I had a touchdown or anything, it was just competitive, it was fun.” He described the experience as filled with memorable moments he can proudly share, reflecting on his dreams of contributing to such rivalry games as a native of Southern California.

Having played for prestigious high school teams, Servite and Orange Lutheran in Orange County, Ford has strong connections to local football. His journey through college football has been challenging; knee injuries limited his first two seasons at USC. However, he rebounded in 2021 and 2022, achieving 20 receptions for 365 yards during the remarkable USC season overseen by quarterback Williams. Ford also had a significant impact in the rivalry match against UCLA during that period, scoring a touchdown right as the fourth quarter began.

Looking for increased playing time this season, Ford’s transition to UCLA seemed logical, but he faced disappointments during the Bruins’ 38-20 victory in their last encounter. Reflecting on that game, he admitted, “I couldn’t enjoy the moment because I was more frustrated with my own team more than USC.” This sentiment has made the rivalry personal for him, lingering in his thoughts.

Now back at USC, Ford’s contributions have been significant, as he has caught 17 passes for 217 yards and two touchdowns this season. More importantly, he has taken on a mentoring role with the younger receivers, finding fulfillment in guiding them through the intensity of rival matchups. “I mean, regardless of any personal things I feel, that doesn’t really matter because I would never put myself in front of the team,” he asserted, emphasizing the need to support the team’s effort.

Ford’s emotional ties extend beyond himself, as others on the USC side also grapple with past experiences. Defensive coordinator D’Anton Lynn, safety Kamari Ramsey, and cornerback John Humphrey were all key members of UCLA’s defense that dealt USC a loss in Williams’ final college game. Yet, Lynn and Ramsey described this rivalry affair as just another game.

For Ford, the rivalry carries weight. He stated, “It’s something that, you know, when you transfer and you leave, it’s something that you dream about and you sleep about and you think about. And now it’s here.” As the game approaches, he is focused on channeling emotions appropriately, eagerly awaiting kickoff while keeping sentiments in check.