USC reloading trenches with top-tier talents, as seen in latest Tomuhini Topui clips

The approach from the current USC staff has been to focus on the trenches. Both sides of the ball have been lacking in that department during the past seasons. Knowing this, the Trojan push in recruiting has successfully added a number of highly rated players on the offensive and defensive lines.

A lot of excitement was rightfully generated following the official commitment of Luke Wafle to USC. He isn't the only four-star prospect that generated some buzz, however.

Trojan commit Tomuhini Topui, as shared by 247Sports' Chris Treviño, could be seen working on defensive drills. To say the least, the incoming 2026 defensive lineman is able to generate a tremendous amount of force. His ability to quickly react off the snap and drive opposing offensive linemen back is something that all USC faithful will be eager to see on the field when he arrives.

Topui is showing glimpses of some much-needed aspects that many Trojan fans have been clamoring for. Toughness and a strong presence in the trenches are ultimately what USC built the former reign of success on. From the coach Pete Carroll days and during all of the prior seasons of success, the program had an identity, and there wasn't any hope from the opposing team in being able to stop the Trojans.

Back to football fundamentals at USC

USC had since drifted away from that blueprint-winning formula. Now, coach Lincoln Riley and GM Chad Bowden are making sure that it comes back and showcases itself now and for future Trojan teams to come.

Thinking about players like Topui and Wafle forcing their will on the offensive line can only further add to the anticipation of this collection of defenders coming to campus. For now, it's only a brief snippet here and there on social media. When 2026 rolls around, USC fans will be able to see the result of a program getting back to what has always and will always lead to success on the football field.