2017 WMU Tuesday: Notes

USC head coach Clay Helton called Tuesday's practice "by far" the best of training camp.

The injury report, per Helton: OG Viane Talamaivao (returned to practice), TE Daniel Imatorbhebhe (status for Saturday still to be determined), WR Michael Pittman Jr. (doubtful for Saturday), WR Keyshawn "Pie" Young (hamstring), DL Liam Jimmons (high ankle sprain) and CB Isaiah Langley (tight quad).

Helton, who spent part of his childhood and college years in Houston, expressed his "thoughts and prayers" for the city and the region. "I hope everybody will do their part in helping a fellow American any way they see fit," he said.

Texas native Ronald Jones II is heartened by what he's seen from the people of his home state. "It's good to see that people are supporting and people are behind the movement," he said. But, he wishes he could be home and do more for all the people that have lost so much this week. "It kind of reminds me of Katrina, because a lot of my friends from New Orleans had to move to Texas when that happened, and it seems like the same thing going on."

On the field, the Trojans finally have an opponent for which to prepare. "We're looking forward to it," said QB Sam Darnold about the opening game. "It's nice to be able to get into a game week, prepare hard for a Western Michigan [team] that's coming off a great year. They have great players, great personnel. It'll be interesting to see what they run and how they run it. We're looking forward to it and it's going to be a challenge. We're just excited to finally play someone other than ourselves."

Darnold is considered a seasoned vet at this point, but the second-year starter will be breaking in some new wide receivers. "I've grown a lot more comfortable in the past few weeks and I'm sure during the season I'm going to keep getting more and more comfortable," he said about his chemistry with the wideouts. "It's just about time and spending more time and experiencing different things with them. Actually playing a game is going to be helpful for us in understanding who can play and who can't."

The USC quarterback knows he can trust Deontay Burnett. The two were last seen connecting on the game-tying touchdown in the Rose Bowl. "For me, it's just all about staying true to myself," Burnett said about the new season. "Don't change up anything and just be relaxed and be ready to play."

The junior receiver is not worried about the young pass catchers. "Well, it all starts off in practice," he said. "And in practice, they've been making a lot of plays. I commend them on that. I think as a unit, we're ready to go."

The passing game will be boosted by the improved hands of Ronald Jones II (pictured). The tailback is eager to show off his versatility. "I want a wheel route on the first play -- touchdown. We're gonna get there. Hopefully I get an opportunity to show them," he said.

If not, Jones will do what he does best. "I know we've got some young receivers, so we're probably going to pound the ball to start. You want to be balanced so the defense can't get a read on us."

The Trojans learned a valuable lesson last September and Helton will not let them forget it. "Every game matters," he stresses to the team. "Your September is just as valuable as your October and November."

USC football alumni at practice today: Tony Burnett (2010-12) and Craig Gibson (1990-93).

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