Anonymous Big Ten coach thinks USC's defense could make Trojans national competitive again

The defense of USC has come under the microscope throughout Lincoln Riley’s tenure. After taking a massive leap forward during defensive coordinator D’Anton Lynn‘s first year with the program last season, coaches inside the Big Ten are wondering if the Trojans could be a major player in 2025.

Speaking anonymously with Athlon Sports, a couple of coaches from the Big Ten spoke regarding just how good the unit could be this coming season. While Riley’s offensive prowess is well-documented, his program’s former short-coming might become their strength.

“The talk is all about Lincoln [Riley] making another elite quarterback, but I think the metric here should be how much that defense can improve both on the field and in recruiting,” an anonymous Big Ten coach told Athlon Sports. “I think they take a jump up this year because they’re bringing in more talented players to a proven system.

“Both the transfers and the freshman [Jahkeem Stewart] will make the defensive line better. That’s what gets lost about the USC teams that won big; they were killers in the front seven. That’s been missing.” 

Meanwhile, another anonymous Big Ten coach echoed a similar sentiment. While USC’s first season in the Big Ten left a bit to be desired, this time around could be the beginning of sustained success for the Trojans.

“If you assume [Jayden] Maiava continues to build a comfort level, they’ll be better for it on offense,” they told Athlon Sports. “But watch the defense. If they take that next step, we’re talking about a team that can go in and play with the best programs in the nation again.”

All told, USC allowed 377.1 yards per game last season, the 77th-least in the country. While the Trojans were far from lock-down, their defense was still far better than in the 2023 campaign when they gave up 432.8 yards per game, ranking No. 119 in the country.

USC shouldn’t have a shortage of talent next season either heading into 2025. Cornerback Jaylin Smith was the only defensive player they lost in the NFL Draft this offseason. The Trojans also lost four defensive players, who signed with NFL teams as undrafted free agents, but they should be able to replace the talent.

Riley’s squad brought in 15 players via the NCAA Transfer Portal this offseason. The group is highlighted by defensive standouts such as former Kentucky defensive lineman Keeshawn Silver and former San Jose State cornerback DJ Harvey.

To pile on, USC is returning several starters, including safety Kamari Ramsey and linebacker Eric Gentry, who will already be familiar with Lynn’s defensive system.

Time will tell if there’s some fire to the smoke regarding USC’s defense. For the sake of Lincoln Riley’s team, they’re hoping that’s the case, as they look to take the next step inside the Big Ten in 2025.