USC went into another week off tied for third nationally in scoring defense, giving up five points a game. The Trojans are fifth in total defense (197 yards a game), tied for sixth in sacks (seven) and tackles for losses (18) and eighth in rushing defense (51.5 yards per game).
"We're just deeper," Holt said of the line. "Fili's better than he was last year. Kyle's tons better than he was last year and with the addition of Clay we can do some different things."
The Trojans also are getting contributions from freshmen such as Armstead, nose tackle Jurrell Casey and end Malik Jackson.
With an open date Saturday, the younger players will get many repetitions this week as the Trojans move toward next week's preparation for their Sept. 25 Pacific 10 Conference opener at Oregon State.
The defensive line envisions a repeat performance.
"We know it starts in practice," Moore said. "We've got to practice hard again and the same thing is going to happen."
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gary.klein@latimes.com
