Lincoln Riley’s USC football team in 2025 finds itself in a curious spot on defense. Despite some significant strides by defensive coordinator D’Anton Lynn , the Trojans still do not have an ironclad defense. And that is largely because of inexperience and depth woes, especially in the trenches. When Lynn took over, USC’s defense was struggling badly. The Trojans ranked 106th in rush defense in 2023 and simply lacked the stoutness needed to handle the hardcore physicality of the Big Ten.

Riley’s staff, including NFL veteran assistant coach Rob Ryan, has worked tirelessly to bring structure and toughness back. But the defense remains a work in progress. And there has been a recent suggestion popping up from USC’s alma mater. Former USC quarterback Cody Kessler has delivered a heartfel

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