Thoughts from Thursday's practice, through the eyes of USCRipsIt...
- As the Trojans wrapped up their first game week of practices, all eyes turned to Matt Barkley, who's in line to become the first true freshman to start as USC season opener. Once again, Barkley guided a sharp-looking offense that moved with the smoothness of a machine Thursday. "His preparation has been almost impeccable this week," Coach Carroll said of Barkley. "He had a beautiful week of practice."
- Besides the first-team offense having a clean and crisp day, the top-unit defense also looked good in deflecting two passes in its four plays of 11-on-11 work to close out the practice.
- In his first practice this fall, linebacker Luthur Brown handed out a booming hit on tight end Anthony McCoy during team period, showing that he hasn't lost his hard-hitting mentality and inciting "fresh legs!" jokes from his teammates.
- Coach Carroll, in the post-practice team huddle: "It's finally time for the opener. Friday is upon us. This is so exciting, fellas. It's been a hell of a buildup; now let's not let anything get in our way."
- Kirby Davidson, the father of the late Ryan Davidson, attended practice. The entire Davidson family will be recognized during a special pre-game ceremony on Saturday.
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