Lincoln Riley tried to explain the firing of Alex Grinch today but still sounded delusional at times. “I have complete belief and conviction, we will play great defense here. It is going to happen. There’s not a reason in the world why it can’t. We’ll continue to take the steps we have to do to do it and we’re going to be very aggressive that … Continue reading Lincoln Riley Explains Alex Grinch Firing

If you missed my radio appearance with Petros Papadakis, I mentioned Kris Richard as a possible candidate for the defensive coordinator’s position. Not because he is a former USC player but because he has a strong reputation as a coach with the Seattle Seahawks, Dallas Cowboys and New Orleans Saints. He served as defensive coordinator with the Seahawks and Saints. One possible issue for Lincoln … Continue reading A Name For Defensive Coordinator’s Search

Let’s be honest: The firing of Alex Grinch, while necessary, is hardly the only step Lincoln Riley needs to take to fix the coaching staff. He needs to do something about cornerbacks coach Donte Williams, who has not developed the cornerbacks. He needs to look at his linebacker coaches (Brian Odom, Roy Manning) and question what they delivered the past 2 seasons? They are his … Continue reading USC Morning Buzz: A Good Step But Not Nearly Enough

Now that Lincoln Riley fired Alex Grinch, should he be trusted to hire the new defensive coordinator? It might strike some as silly that anyone other than Riley would hire the defensive coordinator, but what in Riley’s background tells us he is qualified to hire a good defensive coordinator? Riley should call someone he trusts (perhaps Bob Stoops) and get them to recommend some candidates. … Continue reading Can Lincoln Riley Be Trusted With Defensive Coordinator Hire?

Alex Grinch has been fired as defensive coordinator, Lincoln Riley announced today. Defensive line coach Shaun Nua and linebackers coach Shaun Nua have been named co-defensive coordinators. Defensive analyst Taylor Mays has been promoted to on-field coach and will work with the safeties. REACTION: This is all a year too late. The season’s over. It doesn’t matter. Lincoln Riley blew it. Now let’s see who … Continue reading USC Fires Alex Grinch