Defensive line improvement will be a tremendous asset for USC

An area that has received a lot of heightened attention with USC is the defensive line. Between the ends and the tackles on coach D'Anton Lynn's side of the ball, many Trojan fans are excited over the prospect of watching this unit perform in 2025.

It has been a point of emphasis within the program. Coach Lincoln Riley has mentioned how it was an aspect that has been lacking. Between the returners who have taken that next step during the offseason and some of the new faces, some are even suggesting that the defensive line could end up being the best overall and deepest position group on the team.

Looking at the first-year Trojans such as Jahkeem Stewart and Gus Cordova, the future is looking great in the Cardinal and Gold up front. Then, USC returners like Devan Thompkins and Anthony Lucas will have a lot of responsibility placed on their shoulders as veterans in the system.

This Trojan staff also added new pieces via the portal. Jamaal Jarrett is someone to continue to keep an eye on, as the transfer from Georgia is looking to hit the ground running in Los Angeles.

Important aspect to keep tabs on for USC

Long story short, the battle in the trenches has to go in favor of USC more times this year than what has been seen. Perhaps even more important is the timing. Every defense will have a play that ends up resulting in a nice gain or easy score for the opposing team's offense. Modern football is completely slanted toward the offensive side of the ball after all.

Big offensive plays will always happen. Then, it is up to the defense to find the ability to force a turnover or key stop when the team needs it most. It is something that can still happen and can ultimately change the tide of a game. With that in mind, when looking at the depth chart at D-line, there are plenty of capable playmakers in this coach Lynn system.