Lamar Dawson, who's had a great spring, capped off another competitive USC practice with an interception...
- Adoree' Jackson shined on the offensive side of the ball on Saturday. The sophomore has been rotating between offense and defense every two practices. "I thought Adoree' showed a lot offensively today. When we come back Tuesday he'll be on the defensive side of the ball," said head coach Steve Sarkisian. "I think we get to see what he can give us on the offensive side of the ball that way."
- As the spring continues, Jackson is focused on being both the best football player and track athlete he can be. Jackson is confident that he can compete for a Heisman Trophy while also excelling in track. "I just want to go out there and compete," he said. "You have to be dedicated to work on perfecting your craft."
- Jackson started three ways for USC last season as a true freshman. Now, he's focusing on fostering the next group of young Trojans. "I just want to be the ultimate leader on both sides of the ball," explained Jackson. "I want anyone to come talk to me, lean on me when they need it. I want to be a play-maker and do the right things I need to do."
- Another leader with plenty of experience is junior linebacker Su'a Cravens who continues to excel because of his love for the game. "My dad always told me when you're having fun that's when you're playing your best so I'm having a lot of fun," said Cravens. "There's no pressure so when I'm going out and enjoying myself, it's easy.
- Cravens noted the team's overall growth this offseason and the camaraderie that's developed after a year under a new coaching staff. "This spring is a lot better than last year. We're comfortable with the play-calling and have better chemistry with the coaches. We are more of a family. We're really playing together," said the linebacker.
- In Cravens' opinion, the defensive MVP of spring ball has been senior CB Kevon Seymour. "He's levels ahead of what he was last year. He and JuJu go at it every practice but I'm proud of Kevon," praised the junior. "He sits on routes. He's a lot more confident in his speed and his technique."
- Sarkisian is pleased with the overall performance of the defense, especially its ability to challenge the offense. "When the defense makes plays, it makes the offense play faster and play better," said the head coach.
- However, the defensive line is going through some growing pains as they battle injury and fatigue. The offense is operating at a quick tempo and practices are moving at a faster pace, something Sarkisian thinks will ultimately benefit his defensive front line. "It needs to be hard right now in spring practice. We need to be tough on them," said Sarkisian. "Football is a tough sport. We need to develop that mentality so that when adversity comes our guys are going to respond."
- Here is the head coach after Saturday's practice...
