USC defensive coordinator D’Anton Lynn accepts Penn State job

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Over the past two years, D’Anton Lynn has helped USC turn around its defense from the embarrassment of the Alex Grinch era into a unit that has been at least respectable. However, Lynn’s time in Los Angeles appears to have come to an end. On Monday Matt Zenitz of CBS Sports reported that Lynn has accepted an offer to become the new DC at Penn State.

Played for Penn State

Lynn played cornerback at Penn State from 2008-2011. The Nittany Lions pursued him last offseason, but the Trojans were able to retain Lynn. This year, however, he decided to return to his alma mater and join new head coach Matt Campbell’s staff in Happy Valley.

Transition

Lynn is still expecting to coach USC in the Alamo Bowl Tuesday night. After that, however, he will move on to Penn State. The Trojans are set to visit Lynn and the Lions next season.

Pete Kwiatkowski makes sense as top target

As for USC, Lincoln Riley now needs a new defensive coordinator. While nothing has been confirmed yet, there has been quite a bit of speculation surrounding former Texas DC Pete Kwiatkowski and the Trojans.

Will Rob Ryan join D’Anton Lynn at Penn State?

Rob Ryan came to USC in part because of D’Anton Lynn. If Ryan leaves, USC might actually get a chance to upgrade at linebacker coach. The Trojans did not get elite linebacker coaching this past season.

Staff retention versus staff continuity

It’s a bigger talking point now that Lynn is leaving: Will — and should — other defensive assistants leave or stay? This is going to be a fascinating drama as Lincoln Riley enters a 2026 season in which he has to deliver the goods.

This article originally appeared on Trojans Wire: USC football DC D’Anton Lynn departs for Penn State

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