Gary Patterson, 65, returns to coaching as USC’s defensive coordinator, aiming to fix a struggling defense with help from a top recruiting class and his defensive expertise.

Gary Patterson, a College Football Hall of Famer and former TCU head coach, has returned to coaching as USC’s defensive coordinator after a four-year retirement, drawn by the program’s top recruiting class and challenging 2026 Big Ten schedule. At 65, he aims to strengthen a struggling defense, leveraging his experience as a defensive innovator and player developer, while adapting his scheme to current personnel during spring ball. USC retained most of its defensive staff, with former TCU colleague Paul Gonzales expected to join as secondary coach. Head coach Lincoln Riley praised Patterson’s proven success and leadership, calling the hiring a strategic move to elevate the defense amid high expectations.