2019 Fall Camp #9: Notes

The Trojans were back in full pads during Tuesday's practice.

Though USC offensive coordinator Graham Harrell didn't identify a front runner at the quarterback position, he explained that all four players have improved since the spring. "The more reps they get in what we do, the better they'll be at what we do," he explained.

USC returns 96 percent of its production at WR from last season, which Harrell thinks should make life easier on the QBs. "We've got a really talented group of receivers," he said. "That helps your job as a quarterback, when you've got monsters out there running down the field."

No matter who's throwing the ball, WR Devon Williams is making big catches this camp. He has especially impressed on the fade route. "That's just going to be my money ball," said Williams, who stands tall at 6-foot-4. "That's where I make my money. I've been working on it day in and day out. Got together with some of the QBs and made it happen."

Williams gave an unusual answer when asked about his role on the team. Rather than identifying himself as the No. 1, No. 2 or No. 3 receiver, he said, "[My role is] the same as everyone else: Be a leader. Once you have all leaders, it's hard to stop the team."

WR Velus Jones Jr. flashed his trademark speed on Tuesday, hauling in a long ball from freshman QB Kedon Slovis that elicited oohs and aahs. "As he gets more comfortable with the offense, you stop hesitating," Harrell said of Jones. "That's kind of the philosophy of the offense is eliminate hesitation, make it simple for them and let them go play ... He's getting more confident, he's using his speed. He's a fast player, so he's not thinking as much. He's just playing fast. And it's making him a better football player."

Harrell also said that RB Markese Stepp is playing with more confidence this fall. "When you play with confidence, I think you play better in all aspects of the game," he said. "He's just a load to take down, so when he gets carries, he gets a lot of yards after contact, and that gives him confidence ... I've been happy with what I've seen from Markese."

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