USF football returns eight primary starters on defense, a positive sign for a program that's looking to improve upon its 7-6 finish and second-straight bowl victory in the Hawaii Bowl.
But in taking the next step, the Bulls could be relying on a half-dozen defensive newcomers who are expected to make a major impact and continue to elevate an aggressive defense that has ranked among the top 15 in the nation in tackles for loss and turnovers forced the last two seasons.
"We've got some new faces,'' defensive coordinator Todd Orlando said as the Bulls continue their spring workouts in preparation for the April 26 spring game at Corbett Stadium.