USC defense has a clear goal going into 2026 football season

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USC football was a defense-first team in 2024, but in the other three seasons under Lincoln Riley, the Trojans have relied on their offense. In 2022, 2023, and 2025, USC needed its offense to be great. If it wasn't, the Trojans suffered. Tom Fornelli of CBS gave USC's defense a clear goal for 2026.

"Of course, when it comes to USC, the offense is seldom the area of concern. There's reason to be optimistic about the defense, though. First of all, the Trojans' defense allowed only 22.4 points per game in conference play. That's not elite, but it was good enough to finish seventh in the Big Ten. Furthermore, the unit improved as the season went along, allowing only 21.4 points per game in the final five, and 42 points from Oregon did most of that damage. The schedule is not easy. The Trojans have to play Oregon, Ohio State and Indiana (the three Big Ten teams that made the playoffs last year), but at least they don't have to play Notre Dame, too. If Maiava takes a leap and the defense moves up into the top five of the Big Ten, this is a serious playoff contender."

If USC can indeed field a top-five defense in the Big Ten this season, the Trojans should reach the College Football Playoff and finally get over the hump as a program. The question is: Will the Trojans be able to do that? They have talent but not a ton of proven players. Their defensive line is the most important position group on the team, the one with the most to prove and the most riding on its shoulders. It's time for USC's defense, particularly the line, to stand tall and deliver.

This article originally appeared on Trojans Wire: USC football doesn't need a spectacular defense, but a dependable one

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