USC football got back to work on Thursday for its second practice of the spring with a very competitive and physical session...
- "You want a very chippy, mad football team that wants to compete," said head coach Clay Helton. "One decision can cost you a game. We're on a mission to go win a championship."
- The head coach is preaching an emphasis on technique and fundamentals at practice, something he sees a lot from new defensive coordinator Clancy Pendergast. "I sleep really well at night," said Helton on having Pendergast back on staff. "He's really captured the defensive room."
- Pendergast returns to USC after spending the last year as the San Francisco 49ers linebackers coach, and he's looking for his defense to play very fast with plenty of nickel coverage. The new defensive coordinator is a familiar face for some players as he was the Trojans' defensive coordinator back in 2013. However, he's learning how to work with a plethora of new talent. "There's really not that many guys. You've got Quinton Powell, Leon McQuay, those are two guys I'm really excited about," said Pendergast. "Really it's dominated by the guys who weren't here."
- The defensive coordinator is familiarizing himself with the roster, understanding that it is a young group with flexibility throughout the linebackers and defensive line. "They're an athletic group, I like their size," said Pendergast of his young defensive linemen. "I like some of the things I see, but there's a transition from a technique standpoint compared to what they did last year, so they're taking baby steps."
- The few guys who've played for Pendergast are excited to have their former DC back in Cardinal & Gold. "Back in 2013, we had the number one defense in the Pac-12 under coach Clancy," said USC defensive tackle Kenny Bigelow Jr. "It's a more physical attacking defense (this year), more penetration altogether."
- Despite all the Xs and Os, the number one key for the new defensive coordinator's system seems quite simple: communication. "It all starts with communication. We're going to be a communication-oriented defense," said Pendergast. "I think the more we're out here, the better these guys are going to be."
- Last time at USC, Pendergast had a limited coaching staff, but this year Coach Helton allowed him to pick a coach for every position. He cited Ronnie Bradford's hiring as the secondary coach as a vital addition, as someone who he's previously worked with and who knows his system.
- While he believes there's plenty to improve on, he was reflective on how happy he is to be back. "I feel like I just left yesterday. I'm flattered to have an opportunity to come back," said Pendergast.
- The defense appeared to win the end of practice scrimmage with an interception; however, the play had been whistled dead. Max Browne responded by leading the offense down the field to beat the defense. Helton loved the resilience from Browne and Co. after the turnover from his quarterback.
- Update on the injury front: Taylor McNamara and Quinton Powell returned to practice on Thursday after missing the first spring practice due to strep throat.
- Here is Helton after the second practice...
