USC's Focus on Building a Bigger Defensive Line

USC's defensive line, under new coordinator D'Anton Lynn, is undergoing a transformation in size, particularly for the Big Ten transition.

• Lynn's philosophy emphasizes bigger, stronger players up front.
• The Trojans had a leaner defensive line in 2023, which struggled against the run.
• They added over 1,450 pounds of muscle in the offseason, aiming for more physicality.
• This shift is driven by the need to match the size and strength of the Big Ten's offensive lines.

The Big Ten's Reputation for Size and Physicality

The Big Ten has a longstanding reputation for its physical style of college football, with teams known for their size and bruising line play.

• Michigan's recent national championship victory highlighted the importance of dominating the line of scrimmage.
• The Pac-12, in contrast, has often been perceived as having teams that lack bulk and brawn.
• The four West Coast teams joining the Big Ten will face the stigma of needing to add mass.

Oregon's Ready-Made Roster for the Big Ten

Oregon has been a line-of-scrimmage-based program under former coach Mario Cristobal, who emphasized line play in both recruiting and development.

• Oregon has a history of producing talented linemen, including first-round draft picks.
• Current coach Dan Lanning continues to prioritize building a strong line.
• Oregon's roster is considered the most Big Ten-ready among the West Coast newcomers.

Washington's Transition Under New Coach Jedd Fisch

Washington, despite a strong 2023 season, faces a significant roster turnover under new coach Jedd Fisch.

• The Huskies lose all five starting offensive linemen, but have made several additions through the transfer portal.
• Fisch emphasizes the importance of size and physicality, aiming for an NFL-like build for his team.
• He has already seen significant weight gains from key linemen.

UCLA's Continuity Under DeShaun Foster

UCLA has less roster turnover than the other Big Ten newcomers, with DeShaun Foster, a long-time Bruins assistant, becoming the head coach.

• Foster has retained key players, including starting offensive linemen and defensive tackle Jay Toia.
• He has added size to the offensive line through the transfer portal.
• Toia, one of the Big Ten's top interior linemen, even aimed for a slight weight loss to improve his quickness.

The Pac-12's Recent Success and the Big Ten's Shifting Identity

The Pac-12 had a successful 2023 season, defying some of the traditional perceptions about the league.

• The Pac-12 produced more NFL draft picks than the Big Ten.
• Both conferences had strong representation in the Outland Trophy voting, which recognizes the top interior lineman.
• The Big Ten is becoming a more balanced conference, with a greater emphasis on passing offenses.

USC's Quest for Balance and Brawn

USC, under Lincoln Riley, remains committed to its dynamic offense, but the Big Ten move has emphasized the need for balance and physicality.

• The Trojans' offense will continue to be a threat, but they need to improve their ability to win at the line of scrimmage.
• Lynn's focus on size and physicality aims to make USC a tougher team, capable of competing for the Big Ten title.
• The success of the West Coast newcomers in the Big Ten will be closely watched.