Lincoln Riley Likes What He's Seen From a 'Dominant' USC Defense
The USC offense is going to be good this season. There’s no debate there. The Trojans have too much talent at quarterback, running back, receiver, along the offensive line and in a playcaller to not be one of, if not the best unit in the conference. As to whether the Trojans can put together a season that meets or exceeds expectations, the question is the USC defense.
There is talent on that side of the ball as well. Defensive lineman Tuli Tuipulotu is one of the best in the country at his position. Safety Calen Bullock has the look of a future star. There are potential impact guys at every level. But whether USC can put it all together, have enough in the front seven to control an opposing offense, and get timely playmaking from all 11 players remains to be seen.
But USC head coach Lincoln Riley likes where the Trojans’ defense sits after one week. The performance so far has been impressive.
“Defense has done a good job,” Riley said after Friday’s fall camp practice. “They, certainly over the last several days, have been the dominant group. Without a doubt.”
USC’s defense was terrible last season. The Trojans allowed 267 points in seven home games. Opponents scored 52 total touchdowns and piled up at least 30 points in eight of the 12 games.
Significant improvement this season is absolutely mandatory. That’s come along as players get more used to defensive coordinator Alex Grinch and his system. But it’s also been evident simply because more players are taking the field.
“We had major, major depth issues there in the spring,” Riley said. “That is a lot different right now. No question. We brought in a lot of players and we had guys also obviously that weren’t practicing that are practicing now.”
USC’s Additions on Defense
The Trojans added a number of impactful defensive players prior to spring ball.
Linebacker Shane Lee was a big pick up from Alabama. Former Colorado cornerback Mekhi Blackmon looked to have virtually locked up a starting spot with an impressive spring. The same could be said for former Auburn edge defender Romello Height at rush end. Latrell McCutchin is a versatile player in the defensive secondary. And Earl Barquet and Tyrone Taleni were important additions along the defensive line from TCU and Kansas State, respectively.
Over the summer, the Trojans added former Arizona State linebacker Eric Gentry. He’s a potential starter this season for USC. Former Washington Husky Jacobe Covington will be in the mix at cornerback. Safety Bryson Shaw will add depth in the secondary after coming over from Ohio State. And former Wyoming standout Solomon Byrd can play defensive end or rush end for the Trojans.
USC also saw the return to the field of a number of injured secondary players. Cornerbacks Domani Jackson and Josh Jackson missed much of spring. Safety Xavion Alford did as well.
“The talent level is up,” Riley said of the defense. “The understanding of it is up. [The] defense has played very well in this camp.”
