LOS ANGELES – USC’s defense faced a tough challenge on Saturday as they struggled to stop the Minnesota rushing attack without standout linebacker Eric Gentry. Gentry, who had been a key playmaker for the Trojans, missed the game due to injury, leaving USC with a void in their defense.
Head coach Lincoln Riley acknowledged that Gentry’s absence was felt on the field, as the defense missed tackles and struggled to contain the opposing offense. Riley offered a less-than-encouraging update on Gentry’s status, mentioning that the possibility of redshirting the rest of the season was on the table.
Gentry had been a standout player for USC in the first few games of the season, leading the team in tackles and sacks before his injury. His absence leaves USC with a thin depth chart at linebacker, with junior Anthony Beavers Jr. stepping into Gentry’s role with decent results.
Riley expressed confidence in the remaining players at the linebacker position, but the loss of Gentry will undoubtedly be felt on the field. The team will need to adjust their defensive scheme and rely on other players to step up in Gentry’s absence.
As USC moves forward without Gentry, they will face challenges in filling the void left by his absence. The team will need to rely on their remaining players to step up and help anchor the defense as they continue their season.
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