Bear Alexander discusses relationship with DL coach Shaun Nua, 'causing havoc' for USC

If USC was going to make a playoff push, they needed some elite talent up front. They dipped into the NCAA transfer portal and landed one from college football’s top program at the moment, Georgia. Bear Alexander is now out West, playing for the Trojans under defensive coordinator Alex Grinch and defensive line coach Shaun Nua.

Alexander described his relationship with Nua, calling it “great.” He is still in the midst of learning the USC scheme, hoping to get accustomed ahead of the 2023 season. Once settled in, Alexander is going to give Pac-12 offensive lines a massive headache.

“It’s great,” Alexander said. “We’re learning the scheme, it’s new terminology. Just taking it one day at a time and all that.”

Alexander did not have too much production during his freshman season at Georgia. Everyone knows how deep the defensive front is in Athens, being the best unit in the country. Getting rotations snaps during his first year on campus was impressive enough.

Even so, just nine tackles were recorded with 3.0 tackles for a loss and 2.0 sacks. However, two of the TFLs and a sack came against TCU in the College Football Playoff national championship. Alexander came up in a big spot for the Bulldogs to secure back-to-back titles under head coach Kirby Smart.

USC is now hoping Alexander is able to make the same impact he did against TCU but expand it across the course of a season. Alexander is planning on being disruptive up the middle and “causing havoc” to offensive linemen.

“Being disruptive,” Alexander said. “Going out there, causing havoc. Hopefully, getting off the field and allowing Caleb (Williams) to do what he do.”

Lincoln Riley knows what they will be getting in Williams. He is the reigning Heisman Trophy winner and is set to have another massive season. Every successful season for Riley as a head coach has meant successful quarterback play.

But if USC is going to make a serious College Football Playoff run, the defense as a whole will have to be better. Alexander is going to play a massive role, looking to have the Trojans better at the line of scrimmage. Not just when trying to sack quarterbacks but also against the run.

Alexander is looking to cause havoc and if he is able to, USC will quickly become one of the favorites to be a final four team remaining.