Gary Patterson aims to prove coaching skills at USC this season
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 3, 2026, 2:43 PM
Last updated Aug 3, 2026
Gary Patterson is expected to showcase his defensive coaching abilities as USC’s new defensive coordinator. Pundits note his absence from full-time coaching over recent years raises questions about his current effectiveness. Patterson, who last led a top-20 defense in 2014, must quickly adapt his tactics to ensure USC meets its goals this season. Analysts emphasize the importance of Patterson maintaining his innovative edge to support USC's improvement on defense, which could complement a strong offense. The upcoming season will be critical in determining Patterson's impact on the team.
- •Gary Patterson joins USC as defensive coordinator.
- •Last coached a top-20 defense in 2014.
- •Has been largely out of coaching in recent years.
- •Analysts question if he can adapt his tactics.
- •Patterson's effectiveness key to USC's defense improvement.
- 2:43 PMYahoo Sports — National pundits wonder if Gary Patterson still has his A-game
"Gary Patterson's lack of gameday coaching in recent years makes it important for him to instantly demonstrate total command of the USC defense
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