Our look at USC football links begins with a milestone in the fascinating football journey of David Sills, the quarterback who committed to play for Lane Kiffin's Trojans back in the seventh grade -- over five years ago.

A half decade later, Sills is set to begin his college career -- but for West Virginia, not USC. Sports Illustrated delved into the fascinating twists and turns following Sills' controversial early commitment, which included a parting of ways from the Trojans after Steve Sarkisian took over as head coach. The story offers powerful insights into some of the wild scenarios that college football recruiting has created.

USC's Adoree' Jackson, a football and track standout, is seeking rare air. Kirby Lee/USA TODAY Sports

Meanwhile, current USC star Adoree' Jackson is gunning to provide us with a riveting story of a completely different type. Jackson told the Los Angeles Daily News that his goal is to compete at next year's Rio de Janeiro Summer Olympics. Jackson, who finished fifth in the long jump at the NCAA track and field championships last month, confidently touted his versatility in Scott Wolf's article. On top of likening his Heisman campaign to Charles Woodson's 1997 run (both are known for their contributions on offense, defense, and special teams), Jackson -- jokingly, we presume -- even demonstrated willingness to play quarterback for the Trojans.

A pass as part of a trick play may happen, but we'll go out on a limb and say that Jackson has a better chance of realizing his Olympic dream than he does of unseating Cody Kessler as USC's starter under center. And if that Rio goal does become reality along with the Trojans' Pac-12 title hopes, Jackson could join Stanford legend Bob Mathias (1952) as the only athlete to participate in a Rose Bowl and the Olympic games in the same year. The odds are obviously long for that combination, but it's not impossible.

Other Trojans material includes this 2015 preview of the team, in which Sarkisian preaches the need for greater mental toughness. Reign of Troy looks at five players to preview fall camp, while the LA Times writes about a potential darkhorse at receiver, 6-foot-4 transfer De'Quan Hampton.