USC Regroups During Bye Before Michigan

USC is using its first bye week to regroup and recover after a walk-off loss to No. 22 Illinois, and to prepare to host Michigan at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum on Oct. 11. Coach Lincoln Riley said USC’s defensive front failed to make early, impactful plays against Illinois, outlined adjustments, and confirmed much of the staff will spend the week scouting high-school recruits while players have limited practices and recovery time. Tuesday’s session was a shells practice with limited media access, and reporters noted walk-ons and backups — including long snapper Luke Brown, punter Rey Sanchez and quarterback Husan Longstreet — arriving early. Despite defensive lapses, the offense remains a strength under quarterback Jayden Maiava and receiver Makai Lemon. The bye is being framed as a pivotal chance to correct issues ahead of a challenging stretch of the schedule.