- Head coach Clay Helton's injury report: LB Quinton Powell (strained neck), C Cole Smith (stomach bug), S Ykili Ross (stomach bug), TE Taylor McNamara (shoulder), OG Damien Mama (ankle), OT Chad Wheeler (PRP injection in his foot for plantar fasciitis) and DT Noah Jefferson (participating in individual drills).
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On the healthy report now, Helton praised WR Jalen Greene (pictured) to the team and the media for "acting like a pro" by rehabbing his hamstring injury and taking advantage of minimal opportunities. Greene made acrobatic touchdown catches in each of the last two practices.
- Johnny Nansen has made the switch from running backs coach to linebackers coach, which is like being "back home" for the former Washington State linebacker. With his unit, he wants to "develop an identity and develop confidence in the kids." To do that, he has to "keep things simple so they can play a lot faster," which is made much easier by defensive coordinator Clancy Pendergast's scheme.
- Sophomore Cameron Smith is the only linebacker with extensive starting experience, and he's returning from a knee injury. "He's getting there," said Nansen, who moved Smith back with the first team for the first time during Fall Camp today. "Two weeks from now, I think he'll be full speed, but we're trying to make sure he gets to the game."
- Even a step slow, Smith always seems a step ahead because of his knowledge and instincts. He is also an indispensable leader at the Mike position for a young front seven. "Cameron is that natural leader in the middle, but it's nice to have the other guys come along and be leaders too," said Nansen, who pointed out the growth of OLB Porter Gustin, OLB Uchenna Nwosu and ILB Michael Hutchings.
- LB Osa Masina was hampered by nagging injuries throughout his freshman season, but he is a big time talent who is expected to play a significant role this season. "He's coming along," said Nansen about Masina. "We've just got to push him. It's about confidence."
- The entire defense is growing in confidence, which is starting to give the offense headaches. However, Max Browne bounced back and performed much better than Monday's scrimmage. "It's what you expect as a coach," said Helton about Browne's resilience. "That's what experienced quarterbacks do."
- The quarterback dilemma will be solved this weekend. Until then, Helton spends "every second" calculating stats from practice and watching film to "make the right decision for our football team" at the most valuable position.
- The Trojans will not be as dependent on true freshmen this season with the increased roster numbers, but WR Michael Pittman Jr., WR Tyler Vaughns, OLB Jordan Iosefa and OLB Connor Murphy are all standing out to Helton lately as potential contributors.
- On another steamy afternoon, Helton treated the team to some shaved ice after practice.
- Here is Helton's entire press conference:
