- USC head coach Steve Sarkisian was in great spirits after a "competitive" practice. "I was impressed with these guys," said Sarkisian. "This group of guys has really responded to the things that we're asking of them from an accountability standpoint. It showed today. They came ready to go."
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Sarkisian pointed out WR Steven Mitchell as a practice stand out today. He is starting to make the tough catches in traffic to go along with his obvious burst and quickness in the open field.
- The head coach also loves the toughness that RB Justin Davis and S John Plattenburg are bringing on either side of the ball.
- At the quarterback spot, Cody Kessler is being pushed to improve two aspects of his game, anticipation and mobility. "He vastly improved last season. I want to see him continue to go to another level, and to play even faster," said Sarkisian about his starting quarterback anticipating throws. Kessler is also working directly with head strength coach Ivan Lewis on perfecting his body, so he can pick up key first downs with his feet.
- As for Kessler's backup, Max Browne is starting to look like a more than worthy heir apparent. "This is the most comfortable I've been at spring ball," said the redshirt sophomore. "This is my third spring, I think it's huge not having to learn a whole offense being under Sark for two years. Seven practices in and so far, so good."
- In front of Kessler and Browne, the offensive line continues to develop thanks to tremendous depth, which is leading to competition at every spot. "Every day is an evaluation. Every day is an interview," said new offensive line coach Bob Connelly (pictured).
- For the most part, To'a Lobendahn has filled the spot at left tackle vacated by Chad Wheeler, who continues to rehab from last season's knee injury. When Wheeler comes back, Lobendahn could be on the move because he is "very, very versatile," said Connelly, comparing him to center Max Tuerk, who has started at several spots along the line. Lobendahn has already started for USC at guard and tackle, and he is the emergency center if something happens to Tuerk.
- Offensive guard Damien Mama is focused this spring on reaching his goal weight of 350 pounds. He arrived at USC at 397 pounds, but he's already shed 38 pounds. The coaches want to "lean him up a little bit and put on proper weight" to improve his quickness, stamina and health, said Connelly.
- Even at 350, Mama is a big man with immense talent. "He's a special kid," said Connelly. "He's a big dancing bear right now. I expect big things from him."
- While the Trojans still struggle for depth at some positions, the offensive line room is overflowing with blue chippers. "One thing I always like to do is compete," Mama shares the mindset of most, if not all, of the Trojans. "Having such great guys behind me always reminds me that my spot could be taken and that pushes me to be better."
- Here is Sarkisian's post-practice press conference...
