USC’s greatest defensive linemen as ranked by one Pac-12 historian

USC, at its very best, has featured physically imposing and dynamically athletic defensive linemen.

In the 1970s, USC’s offense was Student Body Right. In the Pete Carroll era, it was “Star Wars” under offensive coordinator Norm Chow, followed by Sarkiffin (Steve Sarkisian and Lane Kiffin).

The offensive styles were different, but both of those great USC dynasties had imposing defensive linemen. Eras in between them also gave USC some of its best defensisve linemen ever.

Jack Follman of SportsPac12 ranked the top defensive linemen in Pac-12 history. USC has a lot of great players on that list. We invite you to check out Jack’s historical rankings for various positions at SportsPac12.

Here are the USC players who made the list:

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#20 — LAWRENCE JACKSON

LOS ANGELES, CA – NOVEMBER 03: Lawrence Jackson #96 of the USC Trojans brings down quarterback Sean Canfield #5 of the Oregon State Beavers during the college football game at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum on November 3, 2007 in Los Angeles, California. Lawrence Jackson was called for a facemask penalty. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

A cornerstone member of the Pete Carroll dynasty, Jackson was an easy selection.

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#19 — SEDRICK ELLIS

Dec 23, 2012; Arlington, TX, USA; New Orleans Saints defensive tackle Sedrick Ellis (98) prior to the game against the Dallas Cowboys at Cowboys Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matthew Emmons-USA TODAY Sports

Sedrick Ellis was a hulking, physically imposing presence for USC.

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#14 — SHAUN CODY

Oct 21, 2012; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Texans nose tackle Shaun Cody (95) warms up against the Baltimore Ravens before the game at Reliant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Thomas Campbell-USA TODAY Sports

Shaun Cody catapulted USC to greatness.

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#13 — KENECHI…