USC's defense outperformed its offense last year. But it was still generally a problem. The Trojans ranked in the 60s in passing defense, rushing defense and scoring defense. Their 27.0 points per game allowed was the program's worst mark since the dreadful 2000 season. Moreover, USC was 120th in penalties committed per game, 122nd in penalty yards per game and forced the second-fewest turnovers in the nation. (Note: Penalty rankings aren't broken down by offense and defense.)
DC Clancy Pendergast is said to have pared down his system while implementing a more conventional three-down front. So we ask:
What is the biggest X factor for this year's defense?
DC Clancy Pendergast is said to have pared down his system while implementing a more conventional three-down front. So we ask:
What is the biggest X factor for this year's defense?
