Under the leadership of Lincoln Riley, USC’s defense has struggled, revealing chinks in their armor. A notable lapse was evident when they conceded 48 points to Notre Dame. Their vulnerabilities were further highlighted against Utah, when the Utes’ backup quarterback led a decisive game-winning drive against the Trojans.
The critical moments that shifted the momentum included a 26-yard quarterback dash and a significant 15-yard penalty, both detrimental to USC’s cause. Earlier in the matchup, Utah’s Sione Vaki, a dual threat as safety and running back, exploited USC’s defense with two sizeable gains from wheel routes. Vaki’s effortless separation from his defender resulted in an early touchdown for Utah.
VAKI TO THE HOUSE ONCE AGAIN!!!
Picking up where he left off 🙌
📺 @CFBONFOX #GoUtes pic.twitter.com/wRBZjXWxxe
— Utah Football (@Utah_Football) October 22, 2023
This defensive lapse prompted questions directed at defensive coordinator Grinch during a media session. His response, which lacked conviction, was that USC was blindsided by Utah’s wheel route since it hadn’t been captured on the previous game’s footage. However, Utah had executed the same play in their game against Cal Bears a week earlier.
lol https://t.co/e7PabMgjyw pic.twitter.com/O0JUXwJgmE
— The Trojan Blade (@TheTrojanBlade) October 25, 2023
A few theories surround Grinch’s oversight. Perhaps the individual responsible for collating the game footage overlooked the crucial play. Another possibility is that Grinch either neglected to review the entire game or missed the play in question. Alternatively, he might have been evasive to skirt admitting a misjudgment.
Regardless of the reasons, these oversights tarnish Grinch’s reputation, question USC’s defensive competency, and their adaptability mid-game. USC’s defense was found wanting, especially against formidable foes like Notre Dame and Utah, both of whom capitalized on USC’s underwhelming defensive line. While player execution is part of the issue, it’s evident that the team’s defensive scheme and preparations are also at fault.
The road ahead doesn’t offer any reprieve. With challenging matchups against the likes of Oregon Ducks, Washington Huskies, and UCLA Bruins looming, the Trojans face an uphill battle. The season’s trajectory hints that while Grinch’s days at USC might be numbered, the challenges will persist till the curtain falls on this season.