USC's’ linebacker battle heats up as Desman Stephens emerges as the potential anchor for a revitalized defense. Could Stephens’ experience and new guidance under Coach Mike Ekeler transform USC’s middle linebacker spot from a question mark into the team's biggest strength? Marc Kulkin and Marvin Powell III, break down how Ekeler’s energetic coaching style and track record of sending linebackers to the NFL could elevate Desman's game—and the defense as a whole—as USC gears up for the 2026 season.

Key discussion points include the depth behind Stephens, with names like Deven Bryant, Talanoa Eli, and promising freshmen Shaun Scott and Taylor Johnson vying for playing time. The episode investigates the competition at every linebacker spot, the lasting impact of coaching changes, the importance of building a strong defensive core, and how recruiting efforts and player development will shape the Trojans’ Big Ten future. Will the Trojans finally restore dominance at linebacker and attract elite talent with a renewed defensive identity?

#usc #uscfootball #uscbasketball #recruiting #transferportal, #Trojans #beattheirish #notredamefightinirish #notrdamefootball #cfp #collegefootballplayoffs #defense #FOOTBALL #oregonducks #washingtonhuskies #instantreaction #ncaafootball #big10 #big10football #uclafootball #recruiting #reggiebush #heisman #LincolnRiley #nfl #nil #defense #mvp #transferportal #ncaa #pff,

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There are a handful of Trojan veteran defenders set to make a statement as Gary Patterson revamps the defense. Can standouts like Jide Abasiri, Kameryn Crawford, Braylon Shelby, and Marcelles Williams outshine the hyped freshman class and deliver against Big Ten powerhouses this fall?

Marc Kulkin breaks down the Trojans' leadership on defense, highlighting key roles for Christian Pierce, Prophet Brown, and emerging linebackers like Desman Stephens, Elijah Newby and Jayden Walker. Recruiting takes center stage with the inside scoop on battles for top prospects Makai Brown and Marcus Fakatou, plus why the Trojans may shift their focus to Tolo Tuihalamaka. The episode wraps with a fiery Friday rant—are today’s athletes losing respect for the game? The discussion covers discipline, sportsmanship, and what it means for the future of USC Football

#usc #uscfootball #uscbasketball #recruiting #transferportal, #Trojans #beattheirish #notredamefightinirish #notrdamefootball #cfp #collegefootballplayoffs #defense #FOOTBALL #oregonducks #washingtonhuskies #instantreaction #ncaafootball #big10 #big10football #uclafootball #recruiting #reggiebush #heisman #LincolnRiley #nfl #nil #defense #mvp #transferportal #ncaa #pff,

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FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel.Right now new customers can bet just five dollars and get two-hundred and fifty dollars in bonus bets if your first bet wins.Visit https://FANDUEL.COMto get started — Play Your Game.
FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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NCAA sanctions shake up Iowa Hawkeyes football as eight wins are vacated for tampering with quarterback Cade McNamara—was it worth the fallout? The Locked On Big Ten Squad debates whether the NCAA's focus is misplaced, questioning the penalty’s impact, and suggesting the NCAA targets smaller programs while avoiding powerhouses. Lively banter covers Kirk Ferentz’s legacy, Iowa’s ongoing quarterback development woes, and frustrations with inconsistent NCAA enforcement. Wisconsin Badgers face chaos after the sudden departure of athletic director Chris McIntosh, leaving major leadership gaps ahead of the new season. The Big 10 Squad weighs in on Wisconsin’s struggles to adapt in the NIL era and whether Luke Fickell’s job is on the line. The episode also spotlights shifting approaches to spring games, with limited action from stars like Michigan’s Bryce Underwood and Penn State scrapping their scrimmage entirely.

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