- Here is today's injury report from head coach Clay Helton: QB Max Browne (rolled ankle - "[no] big deal"), S Chris Hawkins (hamstring tweak), TE Tyler Petite (shoulder - "fought through practice") and WR JuJu Smith-Schuster (limited with a toe issue - x-rays were negative).
- Helton called it a "good day for the big men" because the coaches finally got to observe them in contact drills, which makes it easier to teach pad level, helmet placement and leverage.
- During the competitive portion of practice, the first team offensive line showed its muscle, "controlling the line of scrimmage," per Helton.
- For the second consecutive day, Helton praised WR Steven Mitchell, who is having a great first few days of Fall Camp. "I appreciate challenging him," said Helton about his conversations with Mitchell. "Let's make this your best year. You're the healthiest you've ever been. It's your time to shine."
- While Mitchell made a big play down the field, redshirt freshman S Ykili Ross thwarted one with an interception. He had a quiet first season at USC, dealing with an injury, but he is climbing the depth chart quickly. "Clancy has been very pleased with him," said Helton about Ross. "He's been lights out."
- With more depth and more talent, practices are returning to the competitive level that made the USC program dominant under Pete Carroll. "This practice field may be harder than Saturday," said Helton about the talent and the coaching schemes. "And that's what you want as a head coach. You want Saturdays to be easy."
- No player interviews tonight. Here is Helton's press conference:
