With USC defensive coordinator Clancy Pendergast back after a two-year absence, it means the secondary is once again learning a different technique for pass coverages.
The past two seasons the Trojans employed techniques favored by former USC coach Pete Carroll. Critics would say the problem was Carroll not being around to coach his techniques. His priority is to eliminate long touchdown passes while reacting to the receiver without initiating contact.
Pendergast brings his own style, which players hope will be more aggressive.
“We are doing a lot more man-to-man stuff (and less zone),” cornerback Iman Marshall said.