USC defense faces skepticism ahead of 2026 college football season
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 14, 2026, 3:04 PM
Last updated Aug 14, 2026
As the 2026 college football season approaches, USC's defense remains a major concern. The Trojans finished 9-4 last season and are looking to improve under first-year defensive coordinator Gary Patterson. Despite a strong recruiting class, analysts express doubts about the defense's ability to perform, with previous weaknesses noted, particularly against top opponents. USC's success in the upcoming season hinges on resolving these defensive issues, and the coaching staff is under pressure to prove its effectiveness.
- •USC went 9-4 last season and added a strong recruiting class.
- •Analysts express skepticism about the defense's ability to improve.
- •USC had the eighth-worst scoring defense in the Big Ten last year.
- •Gary Patterson is the new defensive coordinator for USC.
- •Coaching staff must address defensive shortcomings to meet playoff expectations.
- 3:04 PMYahoo Sports — USC season preview: Defense has not earned benefit of the doubt
"We all want the USC defense to be great. We want the team to succeed. Wanting a great result and expecting it, however, are two different things
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