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Photo by: John McGillen
Senior Salute
November 23, 2018 | Football, Features
by Katie Ryan, USC Assistant Sports Information Director
Having worked in the USC Athletic Department for the past five years, I feel privileged to know the outstanding men in the 2018 senior class. I have heard the same sentiment echoed throughout the entire athletic department and university. These men leave behind a legacy of success. From being crowned Rose Bowl champions to winning the Pac-12 Championship, they will be considered among the USC all-time greats. While these Trojans will be remembered as highly accomplished athletes, they will always be revered for their character and integrity away from the gridiron.
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Cameron Smith, a two-time Trojan captain, has given everything he has to this program. As the quarterback of the defense, Smith started all four years at inside linebacker and became a fixture of reliability and maturity.
"People dream of being a captain here once, but I've had the opportunity to be a captain twice, and it is truly such an honor," said Smith. "I hope that I have made an impact. Coming to USC was the best decision I have ever made."
Smith became known as USC's very own "Renaissance Man" with his love of wine-making and vast interests outside of football. He begins his last game today with 342 tackles, 24.5 tackles for loss including 3.5 sacks for a total of 79 yards, 14 pass deflections, three fumble recoveries and four interceptions with one touchdown. He has already completed his bachelor's degree in communication.
"Being a Trojan has meant so much to me," said Smith. "The experiences I have had and the people I have met are what have made these last four years so great. What makes this place so special is how Trojans care for and look out for each other. It's truly been the time of my life."
It would be almost impossible to think of a more dedicated Trojan than outside linebacker Porter Gustin. The 2018 team captain has been described as a warrior, an inspiration and the prime example of discipline. His devotion to his brothers was unmistakable as he took the young linebackers under his wing to mentor them with the hopes that they too will become great Trojans.
"Having my teammates select me as a captain of this football team means everything to me," said Gustin. "I have worked extremely hard to become a player, teammate and man worthy of the title of captain. My only regret is not being able to play every game with my brothers."
Poised for an All-American caliber senior season, Gustin decorated his career stat sheet with 137 tackles, 33 tackles for loss, including an impressive 21 sacks, for 164 yards and a fumble recovery. He will graduate this semester with a bachelor's degree in political science.
"I've learned more throughout my time at USC than I could have possibly imagined," said Gustin. "I am a completely different person than I was four years ago. To me, being a Trojan means to always fight on. It reflects the importance of pushing forward with everything you have, no matter the circumstances. You can't always control what happens, but you can control how you respond; that is essential when facing adversity. No matter what happens, always fight on!"
Although his USC career came to an end too soon with a mid-season foot injury, Gustin leaves behind a legacy of on-field excellence and an immeasurable work ethic that will go unmatched.
Toa Lobendahn was USC's only offensive captain in 2018. He started in all 44 games in which he has played. He was USC's most experienced and versatile offensive lineman as he started games from almost every position on the offensive line: 18 at left tackle, 13 at center, eight at left guard and five at right guard. Lobendahn showed his character after persevering through multiple knee surgeries throughout his career. He always fought his way back and never gave up.
"It's been a tremendous honor and blessing to attend this university. Some of the best times of my life were made here," said Lobendahn. "Being able to wear the Trojan logo, embodying everything USC stands for, the phrase "Fight On", and all the tradition that we have here has been awesome. The relationships I've made here have been so great. They are my brothers for life."
Marvell Tell III rounds up the group of senior captains for the 2018 team. The senior safety's on-field tenacity and leadership in the secondary made for a strong veteran player for the younger Trojans to look up to as he always walked onto the field dripping with confidence.
"Being a Trojan has been a great experience," said Tell. "It has prepared me for life. Being a captain has had its challenges, but I think I've handled them well. I have led these guys the best as I can. The relationships I've made here will last a lifetime."
Throughout his time at USC, Tell tallied 220 tackles, 6.5 for loss, including one sack, for 20 yards. He also had 13 pass deflections, five interceptions, running one back for a touchdown and one fumble recovery.
Quite possibly the most joyful person walking on USC's campus is senior tailback Aca'Cedric Ware. His happy disposition topped off by his million-dollar smile will bring light to anyone's day. While a delight off of the field, once Ware puts on that uniform, he's a force to be reckoned with from the Trojan backfield.
After waiting his turn behind former Trojan and current Tampa Bay running back Ronald Jones II, 2018 was finally Ware's time to shine and he has continued to progress throughout the season. Throughout his 45 games played, Ware has recorded 251 carries for 1,437 yards (5.7 avg.), scoring 10 touchdowns. He has caught 17 receptions for 124 yards (7.3 avg.).
After making history as the first high school football player to make a commitment video, Iman "Biggie" Marshall entered USC with the hopes of becoming one of the great USC cornerbacks. According to Pro Football Focus, Marshall has been one of the best cornerbacks in the nation this season in terms of allowing the fewest yards per cover snap, and one of the best cornerbacks in the Pac-12 as he's forced an incompletion on 22.2% on his targets. Throughout the course of his Trojan career, Marshall has notched an impressive 212 tackles, including nine for loss for 19 yards, 32 pass deflections and six interceptions.
He was once a quarterback at Crenshaw High, in the shadow of nearby USC, with one collegiate offer. His commute to campus is now short, but USC secondary stalwart Ajene Harris has come a long way since he first became a Trojan.
A player who prides himself on his film study, the former prep quarterback who started as a wideout at USC can break down film in a different way thanks to his offensive background. Harris, who graduated with his degree in communication in 2017, has tallied 143 tackles, with eight for loss, after making the successful transition to defensive back. He also recorded 16 pass deflections, three forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries and an impressive six interceptions, taking two back for touchdowns. Harris is now working on a second bachelor's degree in sociology with a minor in real estate.
Old soul Tyler Petite was USC's veteran tight end and made himself readily available to be a role model for the younger players. Petite's selflessness was just one of his many outstanding characteristics that was clearly seen both on and off the field.
"I want to take the knowledge I've accrued here and put it towards helping these young guys," said Petite. "I want them to see a guy that is doing things the right way. Once I'm gone, they can instill that same mentality in the new group that comes in and keep the culture going. You never want to see a young guy lose their way because an older guy wasn't there to help coach him up or give him advice."
Petite, in his 53rd game tonight, has 53 catches for 638 yards (12.0 avg.) and seven touchdowns.. He will graduate this semester with a bachelor's degree in communication.
USC's very own music man, offensive lineman Chris Brown, will appear tonight in his 53rd game for the Trojans with his 29th start. An L.A. native and lifelong USC fan, Brown successfully lived out his dream of playing for the Trojans. He continues to dream big as he one day aspires to headline the Stagecoach Music Festival as a country blues artist. Brown will graduate this semester with his bachelor's degree in real estate development.
Soft-spoken defensive lineman Malik Dorton made his presence known on the line throughout his career. The senior has competed in 38 games with 60 tackles, 6.5 for loss, including five sacks for 54 yards. He also tallied nine pass deflections and one forced fumble. Dorton received his bachelor's degree in communication in the summer of 2017, and will earn his master's degree in communication management at the end of the semester.
Cornerback Isaiah Langley was a force to be reckoned with in the Trojan secondary. After playing in 48 games – including 12 starts, eight this season – Langley has recorded 102 tackles, one interception and 12 pass deflections.
Throughout his career, offensive lineman Chuma Edoga continued to be a staunch figure in the trenches. He appeared in 43 games for the Trojans, and his veteran presence will be significantly missed next year. He has been one of the most highly rated offensive tackles in the Pac-12 this year, according to Pro Football Focus.
Offensive lineman Jordan Austin's love for football is matched with his love for people. He is USC football's very own philanthropic hero. Austin was honored with the USC Football Community Service Award and most recently was named a finalist for the Pop Warner College Football Award, which recognizes a senior who has made an impact on the field, in the classroom and in the community.
Austin leaves USC appearing in 36 games after earning his bachelor's degree in international relations in the spring of 2017 and is now working on a master's degree in studies in law.
After facing some adversity from injury, cornerback Jonathan Lockett battled back in true Trojan form to contribute to the defense his senior year. Lockett leaves USC playing in 43 games, tallying 58 tackles so far, one interception, four pass deflections and one fumble recovery. He will graduate this semester with a bachelor's degree in non-governmental organizations.
Aussie punter Chris Tilbey is another one of USC's degree-holding football players donning the coveted "Graduate" patch on his jersey. After graduating with his bachelor's degree in political economy in the spring of 2018, he is now working on his master's degree in studies in law. Tilbey, USC's only Australian letterman, appeared in 15 games for the Trojans recording 57 punts for 2,159 yards (37.9 avg.). His longest punt was measured at 54 yards and tallied 19 punts inside the 20-yard line and three punts going 50 yards or more.
This next group of men entered the program as walk-ons. Because of their undeniable dedication to not only improving their craft and making the team better, they were all rewarded with scholarships.
One of USC's legendary "workout warriors" is middle linebacker Reuben Peters. You could find Peters in the weight room late at night with fellow teammate Porter Gustin doing the extra work. In the fall of 2016, Peters earned a scholarship and learned that hard work really does pay off.
Said Peters: "My freshman and sophomore year, Coach Peter Sirmon had a quote on his wall that said, 'Nothing in this world takes the place of persistence. Persistence and determination are omnipotent. The slogan 'press on' has solved, and will always solve the problems of the human race.' To me, 'press on' means 'fight on'. Regardless of what you're trying to do in life, whether it's sports, business, or family, always press on and fight on. That's the most valuable life lesson I have learned while being a member of this football team."
Peters took this message to heart, and when his number was called, he was ready. During this season's Colorado game, after USC's starting middle linebacker went down, Peters had to come in and help run the defense. He had a stellar game and recorded six tackles, two for loss for four yards.
Peters will leave USC playing in 43 games, recording 19 tackles with two for loss. He received his bachelor's degree in real estate development in the spring of 2018 and is now working on his master's degree in project management.
"The relationships I have made here are really special and something that I will remember for the rest of my life," said Peters. "Being with some good people like Cameron Smith, Porter Gustin, Toa Lobendahn…I wish I could name them all. I've made unbelievable bonds that will last forever."
Senior long snapper Jake Olson is an inspiration for not only the USC football team, but for dreamers everywhere. A lifelong Trojan fan, Olson was born with retinoblastoma, a rare cancer of the retina and lost his sight in 2009. Amidst what seemed like impossible circumstances, Olson proved that he could conquer any challenge as he not only became an excellent long snapper, but also joined the football team he grew up loving as a Swim With Mike scholarship recipient. The three times Olson has snapped in a live game have truly been some of the most special and memorable moments for all those watching. Olson snapped perfectly in the final PATs of the Western Michigan and Oregon State games in 2017 and the UNLV game in 2018.
The senior will earn his bachelor's degree in business administration in the spring of 2019, and plans to grow his charity, the Out of Sight Faith Foundation. Olson will graduate from the program accomplishing his dreams, touching the lives of his teammates and inspiring not only USC fans, but all lovers of athletics. Olson's story reveals the poetic side of sports: with a dream and some tenacity, anything is possible.
Senior holder Wyatt Schmidt has been a part of some of the biggest moments in recent USC history. Schmidt was the holder on the game-winning kick in the 2017 Rose Bowl as USC defeated Penn State 52-49 in the historic game.
In the 2017 season, he was able to be a part of two more unforgettable moments. During USC's season opener against Western Michigan, Trojan blind long snapper Jake Olson took the field in a live game situation for the first time. Schmidt helped lead Olson onto the field, Olson holding onto Schmidt's shoulder. He set him up and squared him off to the ball and goal post. Olson snapped a perfect ball to Schmidt who held it for kicker Chase McGrath to put it through the uprights.
Two games later, USC played Texas at the Coliseum, the first time the two schools played each other since the 2005 Rose Bowl. Schmidt was the holder on McGrath's 43-yard field goal that won the game for USC, 27-24, in double overtime.
"It's very unique because you would never think a holder would be a part of those times that will go down in history: the Rose Bowl, Jake Olson's snapping and the Texas kick," said Schmidt. "Even though I play such a small role on the field, it's still so special. I'm blessed to be a member of this football team, and it's so cool to be a part of those moments that the Trojan Family and I will remember forever."
After appearing in 37 games for the Trojans, Coach Helton put Schmidt on scholarship during the 2018 season. The senior earned his bachelor's degree in real estate development in the spring of 2018 and will complete his master's degree in business finance in the spring of 2019.
Jake Russell is another success story on the USC squad. After three full years of hard work, late nights of film and early morning workouts, wide receiver Russell was granted a scholarship during the 2018 season. He leaves USC appearing in seven games for the Trojans, including having a career-game against UCLA this season as he blocked a punt which resulted in a Trojan touchdown to completely flip the momentum of the game.
"My time here has been an amazing four years," said Russell. "Winning the Rose Bowl was one of the coolest things to ever happen in my life. The people I've met here are so special and I know they will be a part of my life forever. The bond of a football team doesn't exist anywhere else. Being a Trojan is being a part of a brotherhood."
Former walk-on Reid Budrovich became USC's starting punter in 2017 and after an extremely successful season, he was awarded a scholarship. Budrovich is in his 26th game tonight and has more than 100 punts for over a 40-yard average. His longest punt was 63 yards, with 39 of his punts inside the 20-yard line and 15 of his punts going 50 yards or further. In addition, he handled kickoff duties 16 times for a total of 1,022 yards (63.9 avg.) with eight touchbacks. Budrovich received his bachelor's degree in business administration in the spring of 2018 and is currently pursuing his master's in business administration.
Austin Applebee, another member of the late night gym crew, had his hard work and perseverance rewarded as he earned a scholarship during the 2018 season. The senior tight end saw action in seven games for the Trojans.
The scout team is the heart and soul of every football team. These athletes come out to practice every day, work tirelessly, push and support their teammates to prepare for games and make the team better. Davonte Nunnery, James Bermingham Jr. and Isaac Franco have been dedicated to making the Trojan football team better and have succeed in those efforts. The USC football team would not be the same without their constant work and they are extremely valued. In addition, Nunnery will be graduating this semester with a bachelor's degree in sociology.
"These seniors are an extremely special group of men," said USC Head Coach Clay Helton. "It is a collection of very talented leaders that have brought us some very special memories over the last four years. They represent everything that USC stands for and will make us all proud as they go on to their professional careers both on and off the field. It has been my greatest honor to have been their coach, and I thank each one of them for what they have done for me personally as well as our football family. Men, you are Trojans for life. We love you and will always be here to support you. Good luck with the next step."
Cameron Smith, a two-time Trojan captain, has given everything he has to this program. As the quarterback of the defense, Smith started all four years at inside linebacker and became a fixture of reliability and maturity.
"People dream of being a captain here once, but I've had the opportunity to be a captain twice, and it is truly such an honor," said Smith. "I hope that I have made an impact. Coming to USC was the best decision I have ever made."
Smith became known as USC's very own "Renaissance Man" with his love of wine-making and vast interests outside of football. He begins his last game today with 342 tackles, 24.5 tackles for loss including 3.5 sacks for a total of 79 yards, 14 pass deflections, three fumble recoveries and four interceptions with one touchdown. He has already completed his bachelor's degree in communication.
"Being a Trojan has meant so much to me," said Smith. "The experiences I have had and the people I have met are what have made these last four years so great. What makes this place so special is how Trojans care for and look out for each other. It's truly been the time of my life."
It would be almost impossible to think of a more dedicated Trojan than outside linebacker Porter Gustin. The 2018 team captain has been described as a warrior, an inspiration and the prime example of discipline. His devotion to his brothers was unmistakable as he took the young linebackers under his wing to mentor them with the hopes that they too will become great Trojans.
"Having my teammates select me as a captain of this football team means everything to me," said Gustin. "I have worked extremely hard to become a player, teammate and man worthy of the title of captain. My only regret is not being able to play every game with my brothers."
Poised for an All-American caliber senior season, Gustin decorated his career stat sheet with 137 tackles, 33 tackles for loss, including an impressive 21 sacks, for 164 yards and a fumble recovery. He will graduate this semester with a bachelor's degree in political science.
"I've learned more throughout my time at USC than I could have possibly imagined," said Gustin. "I am a completely different person than I was four years ago. To me, being a Trojan means to always fight on. It reflects the importance of pushing forward with everything you have, no matter the circumstances. You can't always control what happens, but you can control how you respond; that is essential when facing adversity. No matter what happens, always fight on!"
Although his USC career came to an end too soon with a mid-season foot injury, Gustin leaves behind a legacy of on-field excellence and an immeasurable work ethic that will go unmatched.
Toa Lobendahn was USC's only offensive captain in 2018. He started in all 44 games in which he has played. He was USC's most experienced and versatile offensive lineman as he started games from almost every position on the offensive line: 18 at left tackle, 13 at center, eight at left guard and five at right guard. Lobendahn showed his character after persevering through multiple knee surgeries throughout his career. He always fought his way back and never gave up.
"It's been a tremendous honor and blessing to attend this university. Some of the best times of my life were made here," said Lobendahn. "Being able to wear the Trojan logo, embodying everything USC stands for, the phrase "Fight On", and all the tradition that we have here has been awesome. The relationships I've made here have been so great. They are my brothers for life."
Marvell Tell III rounds up the group of senior captains for the 2018 team. The senior safety's on-field tenacity and leadership in the secondary made for a strong veteran player for the younger Trojans to look up to as he always walked onto the field dripping with confidence.
"Being a Trojan has been a great experience," said Tell. "It has prepared me for life. Being a captain has had its challenges, but I think I've handled them well. I have led these guys the best as I can. The relationships I've made here will last a lifetime."
Throughout his time at USC, Tell tallied 220 tackles, 6.5 for loss, including one sack, for 20 yards. He also had 13 pass deflections, five interceptions, running one back for a touchdown and one fumble recovery.
Quite possibly the most joyful person walking on USC's campus is senior tailback Aca'Cedric Ware. His happy disposition topped off by his million-dollar smile will bring light to anyone's day. While a delight off of the field, once Ware puts on that uniform, he's a force to be reckoned with from the Trojan backfield.
After waiting his turn behind former Trojan and current Tampa Bay running back Ronald Jones II, 2018 was finally Ware's time to shine and he has continued to progress throughout the season. Throughout his 45 games played, Ware has recorded 251 carries for 1,437 yards (5.7 avg.), scoring 10 touchdowns. He has caught 17 receptions for 124 yards (7.3 avg.).
After making history as the first high school football player to make a commitment video, Iman "Biggie" Marshall entered USC with the hopes of becoming one of the great USC cornerbacks. According to Pro Football Focus, Marshall has been one of the best cornerbacks in the nation this season in terms of allowing the fewest yards per cover snap, and one of the best cornerbacks in the Pac-12 as he's forced an incompletion on 22.2% on his targets. Throughout the course of his Trojan career, Marshall has notched an impressive 212 tackles, including nine for loss for 19 yards, 32 pass deflections and six interceptions.
He was once a quarterback at Crenshaw High, in the shadow of nearby USC, with one collegiate offer. His commute to campus is now short, but USC secondary stalwart Ajene Harris has come a long way since he first became a Trojan.
A player who prides himself on his film study, the former prep quarterback who started as a wideout at USC can break down film in a different way thanks to his offensive background. Harris, who graduated with his degree in communication in 2017, has tallied 143 tackles, with eight for loss, after making the successful transition to defensive back. He also recorded 16 pass deflections, three forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries and an impressive six interceptions, taking two back for touchdowns. Harris is now working on a second bachelor's degree in sociology with a minor in real estate.
Old soul Tyler Petite was USC's veteran tight end and made himself readily available to be a role model for the younger players. Petite's selflessness was just one of his many outstanding characteristics that was clearly seen both on and off the field.
"I want to take the knowledge I've accrued here and put it towards helping these young guys," said Petite. "I want them to see a guy that is doing things the right way. Once I'm gone, they can instill that same mentality in the new group that comes in and keep the culture going. You never want to see a young guy lose their way because an older guy wasn't there to help coach him up or give him advice."
Petite, in his 53rd game tonight, has 53 catches for 638 yards (12.0 avg.) and seven touchdowns.. He will graduate this semester with a bachelor's degree in communication.
USC's very own music man, offensive lineman Chris Brown, will appear tonight in his 53rd game for the Trojans with his 29th start. An L.A. native and lifelong USC fan, Brown successfully lived out his dream of playing for the Trojans. He continues to dream big as he one day aspires to headline the Stagecoach Music Festival as a country blues artist. Brown will graduate this semester with his bachelor's degree in real estate development.
Soft-spoken defensive lineman Malik Dorton made his presence known on the line throughout his career. The senior has competed in 38 games with 60 tackles, 6.5 for loss, including five sacks for 54 yards. He also tallied nine pass deflections and one forced fumble. Dorton received his bachelor's degree in communication in the summer of 2017, and will earn his master's degree in communication management at the end of the semester.
Cornerback Isaiah Langley was a force to be reckoned with in the Trojan secondary. After playing in 48 games – including 12 starts, eight this season – Langley has recorded 102 tackles, one interception and 12 pass deflections.
Throughout his career, offensive lineman Chuma Edoga continued to be a staunch figure in the trenches. He appeared in 43 games for the Trojans, and his veteran presence will be significantly missed next year. He has been one of the most highly rated offensive tackles in the Pac-12 this year, according to Pro Football Focus.
Offensive lineman Jordan Austin's love for football is matched with his love for people. He is USC football's very own philanthropic hero. Austin was honored with the USC Football Community Service Award and most recently was named a finalist for the Pop Warner College Football Award, which recognizes a senior who has made an impact on the field, in the classroom and in the community.
Austin leaves USC appearing in 36 games after earning his bachelor's degree in international relations in the spring of 2017 and is now working on a master's degree in studies in law.
After facing some adversity from injury, cornerback Jonathan Lockett battled back in true Trojan form to contribute to the defense his senior year. Lockett leaves USC playing in 43 games, tallying 58 tackles so far, one interception, four pass deflections and one fumble recovery. He will graduate this semester with a bachelor's degree in non-governmental organizations.
Aussie punter Chris Tilbey is another one of USC's degree-holding football players donning the coveted "Graduate" patch on his jersey. After graduating with his bachelor's degree in political economy in the spring of 2018, he is now working on his master's degree in studies in law. Tilbey, USC's only Australian letterman, appeared in 15 games for the Trojans recording 57 punts for 2,159 yards (37.9 avg.). His longest punt was measured at 54 yards and tallied 19 punts inside the 20-yard line and three punts going 50 yards or more.
This next group of men entered the program as walk-ons. Because of their undeniable dedication to not only improving their craft and making the team better, they were all rewarded with scholarships.
One of USC's legendary "workout warriors" is middle linebacker Reuben Peters. You could find Peters in the weight room late at night with fellow teammate Porter Gustin doing the extra work. In the fall of 2016, Peters earned a scholarship and learned that hard work really does pay off.
Said Peters: "My freshman and sophomore year, Coach Peter Sirmon had a quote on his wall that said, 'Nothing in this world takes the place of persistence. Persistence and determination are omnipotent. The slogan 'press on' has solved, and will always solve the problems of the human race.' To me, 'press on' means 'fight on'. Regardless of what you're trying to do in life, whether it's sports, business, or family, always press on and fight on. That's the most valuable life lesson I have learned while being a member of this football team."
Peters took this message to heart, and when his number was called, he was ready. During this season's Colorado game, after USC's starting middle linebacker went down, Peters had to come in and help run the defense. He had a stellar game and recorded six tackles, two for loss for four yards.
Peters will leave USC playing in 43 games, recording 19 tackles with two for loss. He received his bachelor's degree in real estate development in the spring of 2018 and is now working on his master's degree in project management.
"The relationships I have made here are really special and something that I will remember for the rest of my life," said Peters. "Being with some good people like Cameron Smith, Porter Gustin, Toa Lobendahn…I wish I could name them all. I've made unbelievable bonds that will last forever."
Senior long snapper Jake Olson is an inspiration for not only the USC football team, but for dreamers everywhere. A lifelong Trojan fan, Olson was born with retinoblastoma, a rare cancer of the retina and lost his sight in 2009. Amidst what seemed like impossible circumstances, Olson proved that he could conquer any challenge as he not only became an excellent long snapper, but also joined the football team he grew up loving as a Swim With Mike scholarship recipient. The three times Olson has snapped in a live game have truly been some of the most special and memorable moments for all those watching. Olson snapped perfectly in the final PATs of the Western Michigan and Oregon State games in 2017 and the UNLV game in 2018.
The senior will earn his bachelor's degree in business administration in the spring of 2019, and plans to grow his charity, the Out of Sight Faith Foundation. Olson will graduate from the program accomplishing his dreams, touching the lives of his teammates and inspiring not only USC fans, but all lovers of athletics. Olson's story reveals the poetic side of sports: with a dream and some tenacity, anything is possible.
Senior holder Wyatt Schmidt has been a part of some of the biggest moments in recent USC history. Schmidt was the holder on the game-winning kick in the 2017 Rose Bowl as USC defeated Penn State 52-49 in the historic game.
In the 2017 season, he was able to be a part of two more unforgettable moments. During USC's season opener against Western Michigan, Trojan blind long snapper Jake Olson took the field in a live game situation for the first time. Schmidt helped lead Olson onto the field, Olson holding onto Schmidt's shoulder. He set him up and squared him off to the ball and goal post. Olson snapped a perfect ball to Schmidt who held it for kicker Chase McGrath to put it through the uprights.
Two games later, USC played Texas at the Coliseum, the first time the two schools played each other since the 2005 Rose Bowl. Schmidt was the holder on McGrath's 43-yard field goal that won the game for USC, 27-24, in double overtime.
"It's very unique because you would never think a holder would be a part of those times that will go down in history: the Rose Bowl, Jake Olson's snapping and the Texas kick," said Schmidt. "Even though I play such a small role on the field, it's still so special. I'm blessed to be a member of this football team, and it's so cool to be a part of those moments that the Trojan Family and I will remember forever."
After appearing in 37 games for the Trojans, Coach Helton put Schmidt on scholarship during the 2018 season. The senior earned his bachelor's degree in real estate development in the spring of 2018 and will complete his master's degree in business finance in the spring of 2019.
Jake Russell is another success story on the USC squad. After three full years of hard work, late nights of film and early morning workouts, wide receiver Russell was granted a scholarship during the 2018 season. He leaves USC appearing in seven games for the Trojans, including having a career-game against UCLA this season as he blocked a punt which resulted in a Trojan touchdown to completely flip the momentum of the game.
"My time here has been an amazing four years," said Russell. "Winning the Rose Bowl was one of the coolest things to ever happen in my life. The people I've met here are so special and I know they will be a part of my life forever. The bond of a football team doesn't exist anywhere else. Being a Trojan is being a part of a brotherhood."
Former walk-on Reid Budrovich became USC's starting punter in 2017 and after an extremely successful season, he was awarded a scholarship. Budrovich is in his 26th game tonight and has more than 100 punts for over a 40-yard average. His longest punt was 63 yards, with 39 of his punts inside the 20-yard line and 15 of his punts going 50 yards or further. In addition, he handled kickoff duties 16 times for a total of 1,022 yards (63.9 avg.) with eight touchbacks. Budrovich received his bachelor's degree in business administration in the spring of 2018 and is currently pursuing his master's in business administration.
Austin Applebee, another member of the late night gym crew, had his hard work and perseverance rewarded as he earned a scholarship during the 2018 season. The senior tight end saw action in seven games for the Trojans.
The scout team is the heart and soul of every football team. These athletes come out to practice every day, work tirelessly, push and support their teammates to prepare for games and make the team better. Davonte Nunnery, James Bermingham Jr. and Isaac Franco have been dedicated to making the Trojan football team better and have succeed in those efforts. The USC football team would not be the same without their constant work and they are extremely valued. In addition, Nunnery will be graduating this semester with a bachelor's degree in sociology.
"These seniors are an extremely special group of men," said USC Head Coach Clay Helton. "It is a collection of very talented leaders that have brought us some very special memories over the last four years. They represent everything that USC stands for and will make us all proud as they go on to their professional careers both on and off the field. It has been my greatest honor to have been their coach, and I thank each one of them for what they have done for me personally as well as our football family. Men, you are Trojans for life. We love you and will always be here to support you. Good luck with the next step."
USC Football defeats Purdue: Lake McRee, Bishop Fitzgerald, Christian Pierce, Waymond Jordan
Saturday, September 13
USC QB Jayden Maiava on Trojans’ Win Over Purdue, Weather Delay, First Road Win of 2025
Saturday, September 13
USC Football vs. Purdue Post Game Press Conference
Saturday, September 13
Football - USC 33, Purdue 17: Highlights (9/13/25)
Saturday, September 13
