The USC Trojans will soon be entering a crucial 2024 season in a new conference: the Big 10. The Big 10 conference will bring plenty of challenges from the Pac-12. The Trojans will be looking to establish themselves as an elite team in the Big 10, and they know it all starts with defense.
The Trojans are preparing for the challenges they will endure on defense thanks to new defensive coordinator Danton Lin. Lin was brought in by USC to help lay the foundation for a solid defense, but it seems he's already making his presence felt. One man he's making his presence felt is USC and NFL legend Ronnie Lott. At this year's Lott Impact Trophy luncheon, Lott spoke about Lin's impact:
“There are a lot of coaches out there that do more than just tell you how to play football, but he's that,” Lott said.
“He's the way he is because that's the way his father is. So we're very fortunate not only to have him but all of those other traits as well, because we try to make sure our students have the opportunity to graduate and be productive and realize that there's a lot out there they can achieve.”
Lott has done it all in his Hall of Fame career, so his words mean a lot. The Trojans clearly needed to fix their defense after two years that were mediocre at best. Lin has a chance to put USC back on the map, and this time he'll do it in South Los Angeles instead of Westwood.
The 34-year-old Lin is wise beyond his years, having led the Bruins to first in the nation in rush defense, second in yards allowed per rush and third in sacks per game. USC hopes to reap those benefits during Lin's tenure.
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