Lincoln Riley and the USC Trojans have some changes to make, especially on the defensive side of the ball.

USC was embarrassed in its biggest test of the season against Notre Dame, falling by multiple touchdowns. The Fighting Irish exposed the Trojans defense for what it is.

And with injuries in the secondary, on Thursday head coach Lincoln Riley told reporters that he sees redshirt freshman Zion Branch as taking on a bigger role moving forward.

Here’s what he had to say:

Branch has played sparingly this season, but flashes of being a strong player have shone through. He’s totaled 10 tackles and forced 1 fumble this season. He had 4 tackles against the Fighting Irish.

USC looks to prove its legitimacy against Utah this weekend.