Super sophomore setting tone for Southern Cal's improved defense

The USC Trojans' defense was inept in 2023, ranking No. 119 out of the 133 teams competing at the FBS level. 2024 has been a different story.

In four games, the Trojans have held opponents to an average of 17 points per game and are ranked No. 32 in total defense, 87 spots higher than last season.

A big reason for USC's significant defensive improvement is the toughness, performance and leadership of safety Kamari Ramsey, whose excellent play was a major factor in the Trojans' 38-21 victory over the Wisconsin Badgers on Saturday. The Trojans shut out the Badgers in the second half.

Ramsey made two particularly impactful plays in the third quarter. With the Trojans trailing 21-17, the Badgers had the ball near USC's 30-yard line on fourth down with less than a yard to gain. As Wisconsin attempted to run up the middle, Ramsey raced into the backfield and stopped the Badgers' ball carrier short of the line to gain, resulting in a turnover on downs.

After that defensive stop, the Trojans marched down the field and scored a touchdown to take a 24-21 lead. Then, on Wisconsin's next drive, Ramsey thwarted the Badgers offense with a ferocious third-down hit as time expired in the third quarter.

After that stop, the Trojans scored a TD on their next possession and never looked back.

In four games, Ramsey has 19 tackles, one forced fumble and one pass breakup. He is one of 42 players named to the 2024 Lott IMPACT Trophy watch list, and he was named the Lott IMPACT Trophy player of the week following his performance against LSU in Week 1.