The Trojans continued preparation for the upcoming bowl game against Georgia Tech.
- Friday's practice proved to be competitive and physical as the USC Trojans began their initial prep for the bowl game.
- Senior safety T.J. McDonald is excited to have one more opportunity to don the cardinal and gold in the Trojans' first bowl game in two seasons. "It is a good thing knowing that we still have another game and opportunity to do what we love, which is to play football," McDonald said. "The energy is great out here right now. We are working on getting better and developing a lot of the guys."
- The Trojans ended the 2012 regular season with two consecutive losses and hope to correct the necessary mistakes before the bowl game. "It is good to have that next opportunity to shine and go out there and play for your teammates, family and friends," McDonald said. "The bowl game is a great opportunity. A lot of people are going to be watching and we're going to have a lot of fun."
- One week after the announcement of Monte Kiffin's intended departure following the bowl game, McDonald remarked how much of an influence Kiffin was to him during the past three seasons. "I have been with him for three years and I have learned so much from him. I made sure he knew that I am appreciative of everything that we were able to accomplish since I have been here."
- Sophomore wide receiver Marqise Lee returned from the College Football Awards where he won the Biletnikoff Award. "It was a great experience to be there," Lee said. "Being there and having the opportunity to be in the same category as Terrance [Williams] and Stedman [Bailey] is amazing."
- Lee remarked that the ceremony was one of his most favorite parts of the trip. Once the Biletnikoff category was announced, it was one of the most nerve wracking experiences. "My heart was beating so fast," Lee said. "Once I won, all of my teammates came to mind: Robert, Barkley and the lineman especially. This award is not just for me, it is for the coaches and my teammates."
Here is Lane Kiffin's post-practice presser...
