The Trojans are just over 48 hours away from their Pac-12 opener at Stanford.
- Head coach Steve Sarkisian is impressed with his team's preparation and execution of this week's game plan in anticipation of their first road game. "It's amazing how far you can come from Tuesday until Thursday when you implement a game plan," he said. "We're excited for Saturday. It's going to come quick."
- In last year's contest, the Stanford defense held USC's rushing attack to just 23 yards. Sarkisian knows what he's up against in the talented Cardinal defensive front. "I think it's hard to beat anybody when you only rush for 23 yards in a game. One, they've got big, physical guys up front. Two, they've got a good scheme, they're well-coached, they stop the things that you're good at. Three, they get a lot of sacks."
- But Sarkisian believes the Trojans have a rushing attack capable of competing with the Cardinal, highlighting the performance of Buck Allen and Justin Davis against Fresno State last weekend. "I think they're a good combination with one another. I think they both caught the ball extremely well out of the backfield which is important for us as well. All in all I think it was a good first game."
- With only one week of 2014 Stanford game film to examine, it is difficult for the Trojans to anticipate what they will be up against on Saturday. However, Sarkisian says they have to trust in the implementation of their own strengths. "You hang your hat on execution. On your guys' ability, regardless of what they get, to go out and execute the call whether it's offense, defense or special teams," he explained. "And then as you start to get a sense of how they are trying to attack you in either phase, then you can start to make some adjustments."
- Things are looking positive for the Trojans on the injury front. Cody Kessler and Leonard Williams are ready to go for Saturday. Damien Mama, Khaliel Rodgers and Aundrey Walker are all cleared to play as well but their involvement against the Cardinal will depend on how they feel at game time.
- Here is Coach Sark after Thursday's practice...
