Pac-12 Football: 5 storylines to follow in spring 2019

2. Can USC rebuild its offensive line to protect JT Daniels?

After losing Sam Darnold and a slew of talent across the roster to the NFL, it was never really going to be the easiest of seasons for Southern California in 2018. But a collapse below .500 in the standings for the first time in the 21st century was a bigger plummet than most expected for Clay Helton’s crew, and a big part of that came down to issues along the offensive line and more generally in the passing game.

As a true freshman, it was anticipated that JT Daniels would struggle at times at quarterback for USC. It certainly didn’t help that he found himself on the ground frequently, sustaining 25 sacks in his 11 starts under center for the Trojans. While USC fans will hope for a breakout campaign in his second season as a starter, a sophomore slump could be more likely if the offensive line regresses even further after losing three starters.

The Trojans lose Chris Brown at left guard, Chuma Edoga at right tackle, and center Toa Lobendahn from last season’s starting line. The likeliest candidates to step into their places are Alijah Vera-Tucker, Jalen McKenzie, and Brett Neilon respectively. But the starting roles are hardly guaranteed for any of the trio, and there are talented freshmen who could threaten to take over the starting role right away in their college careers. For USC to succeed in 2019, they’ll have to get this decision right — and that all begins in the spring.