On Sunday, USC coach Lincoln Riley made the decision many Trojans fans had been demanding all season. After a 52-42 loss to Washington, which marked USC’s third loss in the last four games, Riley dismissed defensive coordinator Alex Grinch. Throughout Riley’s two seasons at USC, the Trojans’ defense has struggled immensely, plagued by poor tackling and coverage issues. In fact, USC ranks poorly in several defensive categories, including No. 109 in yards per play allowed, No. 126 in red zone defense, and No. 132 in plays of 20-plus yards allowed. The team has allowed an average of 42 points per game in its last six matches.
Grinch previously had success as Washington State’s defensive coordinator in the Pac-12 before being hired by Riley at Oklahoma to revamp the Sooners’ weak defense. While Grinch made some improvements at Oklahoma, the defense was far from elite. Being an Air Raid defensive coordinator poses unique challenges, as we explained earlier this year. Many top statistical defenses in the country are found in Big Ten programs with underwhelming offenses, particularly Iowa.
So, who could USC target as their next defensive coordinator? One notable option is Illinois’ senior defensive analyst Jim Leonhard. Leonhard did an outstanding job running the defense at his alma mater, Wisconsin, where his defenses consistently ranked among the top in the nation in total defense and scoring defense. However, Leonhard’s next move remains uncertain, as he ended up on Bret Bielema’s Illinois staff after serving as an interim head coach last season. While Leonhard would be a home-run hire based on his track record, he would be working with an entirely different offensive system at USC.
Another option Riley may consider is UCLA’s defensive coordinator, D’Anton Lynn. Lynn, a Penn State graduate, has transformed UCLA’s defense in his first season, leading them to rank No. 9 in the nation. With a talented defensive front, UCLA excels in run defense, sacks, and red zone touchdown defense. Moreover, they have allowed significantly fewer plays of 20-plus yards compared to USC. Although it’s unknown whether Lynn would consider the move, his stock has risen since joining UCLA.
USC could also look at Nebraska’s defensive coordinator, Tony White, who has made a significant impact on the team’s defense this season. White has helped Nebraska improve in various defensive areas, including run defense, sacks, and red zone touchdown percentage defense. He previously coached in the Pac-12 at Arizona State and has a proven track record in developing strong defenses.
Other potential candidates include NC State’s defensive coordinator, Tony Gibson, who has excelled in Air Raid defensive schemes, and Texas Tech’s defensive coordinator, Tim DeRuyter, who has prior experience in the Pac-12. Minnesota’s defensive coordinator, Joe Rossi, has consistently improved the Gophers’ defense, ranking in the top 10 for the past two years. Lastly, Rutgers’ defensive coordinator, Joe Harasymiak, has played a crucial role in the team’s defensive success this season.
However, it’s unlikely that USC will consider Morgan Scalley, Utah’s defensive coordinator, as he has consistently produced excellent defenses and is expected to become Utah’s next head coach. One wild card option is Zach Arnett, Mississippi State’s head coach. Arnett has a strong background as a defensive coordinator, achieving top-five defensive rankings in the SEC during his time working with Mike Leach. However, he may face challenges as Mississippi State’s head coach.
In conclusion, USC has several potential candidates to choose from for their next defensive coordinator. The decision will be crucial in improving the Trojans’ struggling defense and working alongside Riley’s offensive system.