The Gophers defense were down two starting defensive players against USC game at Huntington Bank Stadium on Saturday night. But the U got one key player back. Cornerback Justin Walley was upgraded to questionable on the team’s unavailable list and returned to the lineup after missing the last two games with a knee injury. Linebacker Maverick Baranowski and tackle Jalen Logan-Redding missed the game with injuries suffered in the 27-24 loss to Michigan last Saturday. Coming into Saturday, Baranowski led the team with 36 tackles in all five games. Devon Williams started in his place. Logan-Redding was listed as questionable and didn’t play. Anthony Smith started in his place. Tight end Pierce Walsh remained listed as out. He will miss the first half of the season. Tight end Jameson Geers, who was listed as questionable last week, was not listed on report after playing five snaps against Michigan last week. Related Articles College Sports | When the Gophers will play each new Big Ten opponent through 2028 College Sports | Gophers football: USC game will be unfamiliar in many ways College Sports | Gophers football vs. USC: Keys to game, how to watch and who has edge College Sports | How Gophers were able to recruit cornerback Ethan Robinson over USC College Sports | Gophers football: Can freshman sensation Koi Perich also play offense?