USC football defensive coordinator Alex Grinch has a surprising pick for who he thinks is the defensive MVP through three weeks. Grinch says defensive end Solomon Byrd has been the MVP, over other defenders like linebacker Mason Cobb.

Through the first three games, Byrd has put up 2.5 sacks, 10 pressures, and forced two fumbles as the Trojans have rolled to three wins to start the year.

Grinch spoke on Byrd, saying, “He’s a guy that I absolutely would highlight as someone who has been kind of a catalyst for us,” via Ryan Kartje of the Los Angeles Times.

Article Continues Below
More NCAA Football News
Michigan Wolverines running back Hassan Haskins runs by Notre Dame defenders during the second half
Michigan football, Notre Dame finalists for 4-star DLScotty White ·
A Michigan Wolverines marching band color guard flag member carries the Michigan flag across the field before the Wolverines played against the Washington Huskies in the 2024 College Football Playoff national championship game at NRG Stadium.
Michigan football battling 3 CFP contenders for 4-star EDGEScotty White ·
Florida A&M is under scrutiny for low pass rates in its law and nursing programs. The university has plans to enhance student outcomes.
Florida A&M lands JUCO QB after losing Kent State starRandall Barnes ·
A general overall view of a United States flag and fireworks during the playing of the national anthem before the game between the Southern California Trojans and the Stanford Cardinal at United Airlines Field at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.
5-star TE has a message for the country after USC football commitmentScotty White ·
North Carolina Tar Heels defensive lineman Travis Shaw (4) runs on to the field with the american flag before the game at Kenan Memorial Stadium.
Full North Carolina football game-by-game predictions for 2025 seasonScotty White ·
Dec 27, 2024; Las Vegas, NV, USA; Southern California Trojans wide receiver Kyle Ford (81) celebrates after a first down against the Texas A&M Aggies in the second half at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
USC football land 5-star pass catcher over Georgia, TexasZachary Draves ·

Given that Cobb missed the last two games versus Nevada and Stanford, it's not surprising that he isn't Grinch's defensive MVP since he simply hasn't been on the field much. Still, this doesn't take away what Solomon Byrd has accomplished through three weeks so far. As Grinch points out, Byrd has been a defensive playmaker for the Trojans, having put up multiple sacks and forcing a fumble in back-to-back games. The 2022 transfer from Wyoming has certainly earned the praise from Grinch.

Even with Mason Cobb and linebacker Eric Gentry sidelined, Alex Grinch has so far fulfilled his goal to improve the USC football defense this year after they got exposed toward the end of last season. Though they haven't played many great opponents with matchup against San Jose State, Nevada, and Stanford so far, they held the latter two opponents to 14 points or less in each game. With Cobb and Gentry expected to return soon, their defense should get even better.