Way-too-early rankings of Big Ten defensive units ahead of the 2024 season

Oregon's Bryce Boettcher, 28, celebrates a defensive stop against Hawaii during the first half. / =Chris Pietsch/The Register-Guard / USA

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. . 519. . . . . 9. usc.

The Trojans lost some major stars from the offensive side of the ball like Heisman-winning quarterback Caleb Williams.

However, head coach Lincoln Riley was able to retain an impressive number of defensive players for USC's transition to the Big Ten.

Riley also flexed his recruiting muscles, picking up a number of future stars from the transfer portal as well as the high school level.