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Ex-Lincoln Riley player calls out USC defensive flaws

Following a recent defeat against Oregon, Lincoln Riley is facing renewed criticism regarding the performance of the USC football defense during Big Ten Conference play. Former cornerback Max Williams, who previously played under both Riley and Clay Helton, pointed to communication breakdowns under defensive coordinator Gary Patterson as a major problem.

According to Williams, late defensive play calls leave players struggling to process formations and read pre-snap indicators in time. This disorganization forces athletes into fight-or-flight mode rather than allowing them to play fast and execute their assignments.

The unit has struggled recently, having previously given up thirty points to Louisiana, thirty-five against Rutgers, and forty-one in the matchup with the Oregon Ducks.

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