A big trend that needs to shift for the USC Trojans this season is their inability to stop the run. That is a notion that has stuck around following USC, and time and time again, high-quality Big Ten programs show that the problem is still evident. The Trojans are hoping that with some new faces, they can kill old narratives and show that they belong in the Big Ten.
In a recent tweet, Su’a Kristopher Cravens provides insight on a potentially underrated gem the Trojans stumbled upon in Alex VanSumeren. Here is what he had to say about VanSumeren:
"USC found an absolute monster in the portal with Alex VanSumeren. Teams that think this is the same ole non physical USC defense that can’t stop the run are in for a rude awakening. They got some grown men up front and Mr. VanSumeren is leading the charge."
The best way to improve at stopping the run in the Big Ten is by adding players who have been battling it out doing that same thing for 4 years, like VanSumeren. His best ability is being an enforcer in stopping the run. He will be a big addition for the Trojans for more reasons than just 1. It appears VanSumeren is already turning heads and will be a big component for the Trojans, changing their defensive identity this year. Just like the Trojans and Cravens, I believe VanSumeren will be in for a big year.
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This article originally appeared on Trojans Wire: Alex VanSumeren is turning heads early and will be vital for USC