USC football faces a new-look Penn State team with a roster which is very different from 2025. ESPN looked at one of the Nittany Lions’ foremost newcomers, Jeremiah Cooper.
“The Nittany Lions go into 2026 having lost their top three safeties and an experienced cornerback in AJ Harris. With a glaring need for productive players in the back half, the new coaching staff was able to bring in some reinforcements from Iowa State. Though Cooper, a former All-Big 12 selection, is recovering from an ACL injury he sustained early last season in practice, he brings a wealth of experience.
“Before his injury, Cooper was a very productive player for the Cyclones’ defense, accounting for 134 total tackles, 22 pass deflections, and eight interceptions. Cooper brings value as a versatile player who has experience at safety and cornerback. He is quick, smooth and instinctive. When getting out of his breaks, he is very efficient allowing him to be competitive at the catch point. Though Cooper might not be a physical bruiser in run support, he is effective getting the ball carrier to the ground. Cooper can be used in different positions and multiple ways to solidify his secondary.”
USC’s offense has generally functioned very well at home under Lincoln Riley, but road games in the Big Ten have been a different story. If the Trojans are to avoid the wobbles which have often affected them on Big Ten road trips, they will need to pay attention to where Penn State’s Jeremiah Cooper is on the field. If Cooper is quiet, the Trojans should feel good about their chances in Happy Valley this season.
This article originally appeared on Trojans Wire: USC opposing player scouting report – Jeremiah Cooper, Penn State
Reporting by Matt Zemek, Trojans Wire / Trojans Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Matt Zemek, Trojans Wire | USA TODAY Network
