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Rob Ryan Issues Warning to College Football About USC's Defense

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Lorenzo J. Reyna | Last updated Feb 6, 2025 11:55 AM ET

Rob Ryan is returning to college football thanks to USC, a first for the longtime NFL defensive coordinator since 1999.

Ryan, though, already fired off a warning to the college football world Wednesday -- continuing the brash nature that's defined him and his family's coaching career. He addressed the media for the first time and showed his blunt side.

"Watch where we finish this year," Ryan told the L.A. media.

Ryan is immediately excited about the talent he gets to coach in the linebacker room. Head coach Lincoln Riley helped bring Ryan on board as the new LB coach. He also gets the opportunity to work with fast-rising defensive coordinator D'Anton Lynn.

"These guys are legit," Ryan said.

Ryan raved about some of the defenders he'll get to coach up during the season, plus spring football. But he showed his most exuberance for Eric Gentry -- a pivotal returner to USC football this season.

"I love him," Ryan said. "I'm excited. Gentry, he's a tall guy. He's big. He's done everything this school has asked of him this year. He's been in the weight room. Those guys do an amazing job. He's got the diet going. He's built his body up. The guy's been fantastic. And he does the unnatural, natural."

Ryan even shared how he was impressed with Gentry's "vines" -- meaning the linebacker's arm length. The new USC LB coach compared that trait to two past star LBs he coached before in Mike Vrabel and Willie McGinest. Ryan then delivered one last warning to the CFB world, this time involving Gentry.

This guy's going to be hitting people. The biggest thing is he's going to hit them before they hit him and get used to that," Ryan warned.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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