USC Defense: Emotions Run High After Wisconsin Loss
Defensive players describe arguments and self-reflection in the locker room as the Trojans prepare for a matchup against No. 2 Ohio State.
By Giulia Donovan ·
USC defensive players described a chaotic and intense locker room on Tuesday following the Trojans' 24-7 loss to Wisconsin. The group is now unranked with a 6-2 overall record and a 3-2 mark in the Big Ten. They face No. 2 Ohio State on Saturday at the Coliseum.
Defensive tackle Jahkeem Stewart said the team was far from content after the Badgers victory. "Nobody was happy in the locker room," Stewart stated. He noted that the group engaged in arguments and honest dialogue. Stewart believes this friction is necessary for the squad to improve daily through practice and games.
The loss has fueled speculation about head coach Lincoln Riley's future at USC. Riley told reporters on Tuesday that he is not leaving the program. The Trojans are underdogs for Saturday's game, with Ohio State listed as 7.5-point favorites. The Buckeyes are 6-1 overall and 4-0 in conference play.
USC's defense limited Wisconsin to 200 total yards but failed to stop the Badgers' running game in critical moments. Safety Prophet Brown said the team is still learning to trust one another under defensive coordinator Gary Patterson. Brown emphasized that players need to pick each other up more often and step up during games.
Brown identified eye discipline and technique as primary focus areas for the week. He pointed out that Ohio State has completed 38 passing plays of 30 yards or more this season. Team captains Alex VanSumeren and Jide Abasiri have increased their intensity in practice to ensure players meet high standards in every movement.
Abasiri described the practice tone as focused on physicality and ball security. "Executing all three sides of the ball. Going back to the details and the basics of football, I feel like, is what's going to really help us make that next jump," Abasiri said. He added that players are encouraged to prove their true capability to the team.
The Coliseum will be sold out for Saturday's contest. This will be USC's first home game since the October 3 match against Washington. Five unranked teams defeated Top-25 opponents at home last week, suggesting a win is within reach for the Trojans. VanSumeren noted that home-field advantage helps, but the team's goal remains the same regardless of location.
USC wide receiver Ethan "Boobie" Feaster is also using his platform to support cancer research. The freshman is selling limited edition breast cancer awareness merchandise through his online NIL store. The collection includes pink and white hoodies, crew necks, and long-sleeved shirts. Feaster has played in all seven games this season, recording 10 catches for 96 yards.
