Jim Leonhard, Illinois, senior defensive analyst
The biggest name USC could target is a coach who isn’t working as a defensive coordinator this year. Leonhard’s next move will be fascinating. The former Wisconsin star did an amazing job running the defense at his alma mater, but after becoming the interim head coach last season, he ended up on Bret Bielema’s Illinois staff. The 41-year-old produced defenses that ranked among the nation’s top five in total defense and top 10 in scoring defense four times at Wisconsin. He also helped developed a ton of talent there.
This would be a home-run hire based on his track record if Riley could get him to USC, although he’d be working opposite a dramatically different offensive system.
biggest knock is he has neve recruited an elite player but does a great job of developing average talent into a cohesive defensive unit...and he never left home to coach ( Java made a big point on that one). Also maybe a very short term hire since he really wants to coach in the nfl...