The day before the day before...
- Here's the updated injury report with the big game only 48 hours away. Silas Redd (knee), Cody Temple (ankle), and Anthony Brown (knee) will not play. Leonard Williams (shoulder), Tre Madden (hamstring), Xavier Grimble (ankle), and Randall Telfer (knee) are all listed as probable.
- Following in typical "No Repeat Thursday" fashion, USC spent today's practice working on both offensive and defensive play in the red zone. "Obviously we are going to need to do a great job on defense when they get in their short yardage package," said head coach Ed Orgeron. "They are very good in their goal line package and very physical in the red zone."
- A great game requires even greater focus, but the head coach isn't worried about his team losing sight of the task at hand. "Overall I feel like our week has been tremendous. The guys have a different look in their eyes this week," said Orgeron. "This is a big game. I hear them talking. There's a little bit of a different vibe around. They understand the task at hand and they're up for it."
- It's clear that Saturday night will be a battle in which execution and physicality are key. "Every time we get in the red zone we've got to come away with points," Orgeron explained.
- Adding to the buzz surrounding this weekend's matchup, the Coliseum is officially sold out. Orgeron says the energy inside the stadium is guaranteed to rub off on the team. "I know that when they walk out and see a sold out crowd it puts a little extra pep in their step. It gives them some pride. It's the way Trojan football ought to be."
- Saturday night is shaping up to be a game worth remembering and there's no question that the Trojans are ready. "These guys know it's going to be a battle," Coach O said. "You know when you're up for a big fight you may train a little harder, might watch a little extra film, it's just a natural thing. This is one of those weeks where you don't have to tell them anything. It's a good thing."
- Here's Coach Orgeron's full post-practice presser...
