USC defensive coordinator Alex Grinch has been relieved of his duties after a series of disappointing performances by the defense. Under Grinch’s leadership, the defense allowed an average of 34.5 points per game this season and ranked poorly in nearly every statistical category. The team was 120th in rushing defense and 107th against the pass, highlighting the major issues within the unit. This subpar performance has raised concerns and led to Grinch being the subject of much criticism.
Despite the promises of improvement from USC and head coach Lincoln Riley, the defense has failed to deliver. The team’s performance last season was a cause for concern, as they allowed 47 points in the Pac-12 title game loss and 46 points in the Cotton Bowl loss. The defensive struggles continued into this season, with the team still ranking 87th in defensive SP+. The addition of top defensive talent through the transfer portal did not yield the desired results, leaving questions about the effectiveness of the coaching staff.
While Grinch bore the brunt of the criticism, head coach Lincoln Riley acknowledged that the ultimate responsibility for the defense’s shortcomings falls on him. Despite his previous support for Grinch, Riley’s patience wore thin after a 52-42 loss to Washington where the defense allowed 572 yards of offense and 52 points. Riley’s reluctance to address “big-picture questions” regarding Grinch and the defense suggests that changes needed to be made.
Speculation about Grinch’s departure had been circulating after the game, with sources close to the program confirming that he was on his way out. Many believed that Riley would wait until the end of the season to make a change, but he wasted no time in relieving Grinch of his duties, doing so less than 24 hours after the disappointing loss. This decision demonstrates the urgency that Riley felt in addressing the team’s defensive issues.
Despite making this change, USC faces an uphill battle to qualify for the Pac-12 title. With two conference losses already, the team must win all remaining games and receive significant help from other teams. Their next challenge is a match against the Oregon Ducks, another team with a potent offense. Riley and his coaching staff have a difficult task ahead as they strive to make the necessary improvements to the defense.
One of the major concerns surrounding USC’s defensive struggles is the wasted potential of their top-ranked offense. For the past two seasons, the team has possessed a top-5 offense in the country, yet the defense has failed to complement it effectively. As the program transitions to the Big Ten next season, Riley and his staff must ensure that they do not squander another opportunity to make the most of their offensive firepower.
USC’s decision to relieve defensive coordinator Alex Grinch of his duties highlights the significant issues within the team’s defense. Despite promises of improvement and the addition of talented defensive players, the unit has failed to make progress and rank poorly in various statistical categories. Head coach Lincoln Riley’s decision to make this change demonstrates the seriousness of the situation and the need for immediate improvement. USC faces a tough road ahead as they strive to salvage their season and make the most of their offensive potential.
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