2017 Fall Camp #5: Notes

The defense controlled 7-on-7, but the offense fought back during the team period on a hot evening in downtown Los Angeles.

New injuries per head coach Clay Helton: TE Josh Falo (needs an MRI on his knee), OLB Oluwole Betiku (turf toe) and RB James Toland IV (groin).

With full pads on, the competition heated up at practice today as the coaches focused on tight, red zone situations. In the slot, WR Deontay Burnett and CB Ajene Harris (pictured below) were the matchup to watch, and the defense won the period. "He's one of my favorite guys," defensive coordinator Clancy Pendergast said about Harris. "I wish we had 11 guys just like him. He's a true gym rat."

A year ago, Harris was making a major switch from wide receiver to cornerback. Halfway through the season, he was providing the most value as the scout team quarterback. But thanks to his tremendous work ethic and desire, he has become a fixture in the secondary. "It's not giving up. It's just in my blood to keep fighting," Harris explained how he did it. "I just believe if you keep working hard, good things come to you. I'm starting to see the good things."

DB Ykili Ross is another player who took some time to find his role on the team, but he is rapidly improving at both safety and nickel spots. "I anticipate him being able to help us this year," said Pendergast about Ross.

And speaking of perseverance, John Houston Jr. is the likely starter at inside linebacker alongside Cameron Smith. "I still have to fight for that every day," said Houston. "I am working every day just to compete and be a number one player, so I can show Coach Clancy and Coach Helton that I am the true number one starter."

Houston missed his entire freshman season with a back injury, so he spent his second year building up strength and confidence. Now a RS sophomore, he adds speed to the middle of the park for the USC defense, which was missing last season. Helton emphasized the value of having an inside linebacker who excels in space and can fan out in coverage.

Jordan Iosefa is battling Houston for the starting spot but also double training at Smith's position because he will likely start there for the opener. Remember, Smith was ejected for helmet-to-helmet contact in the second half of the Rose Bowl, so he will be forced to sit out the first half against Western Michigan.

With pads on, the tailbacks can make more of an impression, and freshman Stephen Carr is doing just that. He has distinguished himself in passing situations, both in protection and as a receiver out of the backfield. "The flashes that we've seen have been really impressive," Helton said about Carr. "He doesn't remind you of a freshman."

Trojans footer