Having a leader on the defense and a player who has been battling in the Big Ten Conference for four years will do wonders for this USC Trojans defense in 2026. The Trojans have a freshman, Luke Wafle, who will be counted on to contribute early in the season. Alex VanSumeren will take a young player like that under his wing. The same goes for the freshmen who saw a lot of time last season.

In a recent article, Kendell Hollowell highlights the impact Alex VanSumeren can make this season. Here is what Alex VanSumeren had to say about his new role and Howell’s analysis on the topic:

“Everything from a technical standpoint, to how to go about your business inside the building and outside the building,” VanSumeren said. “We got a lot of young guys that are very mature. You wouldn’t think a lot of these guys are freshmen. You’d think they’ve been around the game and been in a college program for two years. 

“I would say a big thing that I can help these guys with is just technique-wise. What it’s really like out there in the trenches in the Big Ten, and how to go against certain blocks and everything like that.”

It’s a role that VanSumeren doesn’t take lightly because he understands the impact it could have on his teammates future.”

VanSumerenn will elevate everyone on the defensive line with his knowledge and experience. It also helps that he will help with how productive he can be at the defensive tackle position. The pressure will come off the young guys, and they can just focus on being the best version of themselves instead of the guy in the position before.

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This article originally appeared on Trojans Wire: USC football transfer Alex VanSumeren will elevate his teammates

Reporting by Micah Huff, Trojans Wire / Trojans Wire

USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect

By Micah Huff, Trojans Wire | USA TODAY Network