USC has decided to make a significant change following a string of defensive struggles, with defensive coordinator Alex Grinch relieved of his duties, as announced by Trojans coach Lincoln Riley.
Grinch, who had previously served as Oklahoma’s defensive coordinator from 2019 to 2021 before joining USC alongside Riley, presided over a defense that allowed an average of 34.5 points per game this season. The unit ranked poorly in various statistical categories, landing at 120th in rushing defense and 107th in pass defense.
In light of this change, D-line coach Shaun Nua and linebackers coach Brian Odom have been named co-defensive coordinators for the remainder of the season, according to a statement from Riley through a USC spokesperson.
Criticism had surrounded Grinch’s performance and the unit’s struggles dating back to last season, where USC had disappointing outings in both the Pac-12 title game and the Cotton Bowl. Despite efforts to bolster the defense through the transfer portal, the unit’s performance remained subpar, with USC finishing last season as the 87th-ranked team in defensive SP+.
Coach Riley had previously voiced support for Grinch, but following a 52-42 home loss to Washington and a defense that allowed 572 yards of offense, he decided to take action.
While USC now faces a challenging path to the Pac-12 title after its second conference loss of the year, the program looks ahead to potential improvements under new leadership, aiming not to squander a top-five offense in the country as it has in the past two seasons.
The decision to part ways with Grinch signals USC’s commitment to addressing its defensive woes and reinvigorating its football program.