Title: USC Coach Lincoln Riley Dismisses Defensive Coordinator Alex Grinch After Troubling Loss
Subtitle: Trojans Seek New Defensive Coordinator to Address Struggling Defense
Date: [Insert Date]
In a move that many USC Trojans fans had been calling for all season, head coach Lincoln Riley made the decision to dismiss defensive coordinator Alex Grinch following a disappointing 52-42 loss to Washington on Sunday. This marked the Trojans’ third loss in the past four games, prompting the need for a change in the defensive strategy.
Since Riley’s arrival at USC, the Trojans’ defense has struggled immensely, plagued by issues such as poor tackling and coverage busts. The team currently ranks No. 109 in yards per play allowed, No. 126 in red zone defense, and No. 132 in plays of 20-plus yards allowed. Moreover, USC has allowed an average of 42 points per game over their past six games.
Grinch, who previously served as Mike Leach’s defensive coordinator at Washington State, had shown promise in his prior role as he helped improve the Sooners’ defense at Oklahoma. However, the challenge of being an Air Raid defensive coordinator poses unique difficulties, as experienced defensive coordinators in Air Raid programs have noted. Interestingly, some of the top statistical defenses in the country belong to Big Ten programs with less impressive offenses, notably Iowa.
Given the dismissal of Grinch, USC now faces the task of finding a suitable replacement to revamp their struggling defense. Several potential candidates are being considered by Coach Riley.
One notable name on the list is Jim Leonhard, currently serving as the senior defensive analyst for Illinois. Leonhard’s track record at Wisconsin, where he produced top-ranked defenses several times, makes him an ideal candidate. However, it remains to be seen if Riley can convince him to join USC, considering the different offensive system he would be working with.
Another option likely to be considered is D’Anton Lynn, the defensive coordinator for crosstown rivals UCLA. Under Lynn’s guidance, the Bruins’ defense has made significant strides, currently ranking No. 9 in the nation. Lynn’s potential move to USC is uncertain, but his stock has risen considerably since joining the UCLA coaching staff.
Tony White, the defensive coordinator at Nebraska and former linebacker for UCLA, also presents an intriguing option. White’s defensive expertise has dramatically improved the Huskers’ defensive rankings, and his previous experience coaching in the Pac-12 makes him a viable choice for USC.
Tim DeRuyter, the current defensive coordinator at Texas Tech, is another candidate with extensive Pac-12 knowledge, having previously worked at Oregon and Cal. DeRuyter’s debut season at Texas Tech has showcased a formidable defense, allowing fewer than 30 points per game for the first time since 2009.
Joe Rossi, the defensive coordinator at Minnesota, has excelled in transforming the Gophers’ defense. Since taking over in 2018, Rossi has consistently improved their defensive rankings, resulting in a top 10 finish in recent years.
Another potential Big Ten option comes in the form of Joe Harasymiak, the defensive coordinator at Rutgers. Under Harasymiak’s guidance, the Scarlet Knights have shown significant improvement this season, ranking No. 10 in total defense.
While USC explores potential options, certain candidates may not be attainable. One such example is Morgan Scalley, the current defensive coordinator at Utah, who consistently produces remarkable defenses but is unlikely to leave his position at this time.
Lastly, a wildcard option to consider is Zach Arnett, the head coach at Mississippi State. Despite being relatively new in his position, Arnett has garnered success as a defensive coordinator under Mike Leach, particularly in the SEC.
As USC embarks on the search for their next defensive coordinator, all eyes are on Coach Riley and the Trojans’ administrative staff to make a hire that will address the team’s struggling defense and provide a solid foundation for future success.