USC Football: 5 bold predictions for the 2017 season

4. A retooled offensive line will give up a lot more sacks

Last year, USC ranked sixth in the nation in sacks allowed. A veteran offensive line gave up less than one sack per game. In terms of plays behind the line of scrimmage, the Trojans were the best team in the Pac-12 at preventing negative-yardage plays.

That, of course, was with one of the nation’s most experienced units in 2016. This year’s team loses three starters on the line from the roster that put up such impressive protection numbers. Starting tackles Chad Wheeler and Zach Banner are both gone. So too is left guard Damien Mama, who left USC after his junior year.

We are still talking about the Trojans, so they should have plenty of prospects ready to step up and take over on the line. Even then, no offensive line ever comes together immediately. Beyond the impact it will also have on the running game, Sam Darnold is going to be tasting turf a lot more this season as defenders break through his blockers.

The team has already been dealing with injuries. Viane Talamaivao, the right guard who is one of two returning starters, had biceps surgery in the spring. Redshirt freshman Nathan Smith, in the mix at right tackle, is fighting a knee injury. Already lacking extensive depth, injuries and inexperience are going to lead to at least twice as many sacks in 2017.