USC Football 2026 Season Preview: Defensive Concerns and Offensive Adjustments
USC is entering the spring with a sense of optimism after a successful 9-4 season in the previous year. The team managed to secure the top recruiting class and has 14 returning starters, giving coach Lincoln Riley a strong foundation for a potential College Football Playoff run. However, there are concerns that need to be addressed, particularly on the defensive side of the ball with new coordinator Gary Patterson coming on board. The schedule for the upcoming season is challenging, with matchups against top teams like Ohio State, Oregon, and Washington.
The biggest concern for USC heading into the '26 season is the defense. Despite improvements in recent years, the Trojans still have work to do to shore up their defense, especially against the run. With only five starters returning, there are holes to fill at every level of the defense. The addition of Gary Patterson as the play-caller brings experience and a track record of success, but it remains to be seen if he can turn the defense around in the upcoming season.
On the offensive side, USC faces the challenge of replacing key pass-catchers like Makai Lemon and Ja'Kobi Lane, who were instrumental in the team's passing offense. With several top receivers departing, quarterback Jayden Maiava will need to develop chemistry with a new group of pass-catchers. The team's top-ranked recruiting class includes promising wideouts who will need to step up and contribute early in their careers to support Maiava's development.
As USC prepares for the upcoming season, the performance of both the defense and the new group of pass-catchers will be crucial in determining the team's success. With a tough schedule ahead, the Trojans will need to address these concerns and make significant strides in both areas to compete at the highest level in college football.