The USC Trojans will need to dip into their depth if they want to keep their College Football Playoff hopes alive against the No. 2 Ohio State Buckeyes on Saturday.
No. 18 USC Trojans' defense has been underwhelming through four of the five games this season. With defensive questions arriving, if these players are unable to prove their keep they may have to find a new opportunity elsewhere next season.
No. 12 USC Trojans will be entering conference play in Week 3. With less experimentation with rotations and lineups, these players need to capitalize the moment for a bigger role.
No. 14 USC Trojans released their depth chart for Week 2, putting into question some players' roles on the team or an interesting look at possible shared reps.
The USC Trojans' defense has taken a major step forward to open the 2026 season, and junior safety Kennedy Urlacher is beginning to make his presence felt.
USC Trojans defensive lineman Alex VanSumeren has one final season to prove himself before the NFL Draft, and he's leaning on the guidance of someone who's already reached football's biggest stage.