While USC will depend on youth in the defensive front seven, the secondary returns all four starters plus the depth to compete at every position. The experienced unit will strive for more chances to get its hands on the ball under new defensive coordinator Clancy Pendergast, whose aggressive scheme created 17 interceptions in 2013, his one year at USC.
"I am very excited about the quality of our returning starters in the secondary," said head coach Clay Helton. "It is important, however, that we develop some depth and versatility here."
All-Pac-12 CB Adoree' Jackson is the most decorated returner, but he is spending the spring focusing on track & field. At the other corner spot, Iman "Biggie" Marshall started USC's final 12 games as a freshman, highlighted by his two interception performance against UCLA.
Behind those big names, the Trojans have plenty of game. Isaiah Langley and Jonathan Lockett have been in the fire, plus Jack Jones is a promising prospect that will arrive in the fall.
The safety spot is even deeper with Chris Hawkins, Marvell Tell III, Leon McQuay III and John Plattenburg all returning with starting experience. The veterans will be backed up by redshirt freshman Ykili Ross and true freshman C.J. Pollard. Defensive backs Jamel Cook and Keyshawn Young from Florida will provide even more cover and competition when they arrive in the fall.
"I am very excited about the quality of our returning starters in the secondary," said head coach Clay Helton. "It is important, however, that we develop some depth and versatility here."
All-Pac-12 CB Adoree' Jackson is the most decorated returner, but he is spending the spring focusing on track & field. At the other corner spot, Iman "Biggie" Marshall started USC's final 12 games as a freshman, highlighted by his two interception performance against UCLA.
Behind those big names, the Trojans have plenty of game. Isaiah Langley and Jonathan Lockett have been in the fire, plus Jack Jones is a promising prospect that will arrive in the fall.
The safety spot is even deeper with Chris Hawkins, Marvell Tell III, Leon McQuay III and John Plattenburg all returning with starting experience. The veterans will be backed up by redshirt freshman Ykili Ross and true freshman C.J. Pollard. Defensive backs Jamel Cook and Keyshawn Young from Florida will provide even more cover and competition when they arrive in the fall.
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