The service teams, which mimic the schemes and plays of the upcoming opponent, consist primarily of redshirting or walk-on players, as the first- and second-string players spend practices preparing for the next opponent. Because of scholarship and roster limits, the black-shirted scout teams don't have too much depth, so those players are taking most, if not all, reps during the 30-play service team periods. That's a brutal daily task, especially when going against the top units.
There have been several success stories that have blossomed from the service teams. Recently, defensive lineman Jurrell Casey turned an awesome scout team effort early last fall into a spot on the line, while a few years back, linebacker Clay Matthews started out on the scout team before becoming a millionaire in the NFL this spring. More humble and unheralded successes also happen, such as players who flip a positive performance on the service team into playing time on Saturdays with special teams or in late-game action.
Above all, the work of the service team players is appreciated beyond measure by the coaches and their teammates.
"They're the guys who make us who we are," Coach Carroll said of the scout-teamers. "We wouldn't be able to perform at nearly as high a level if they didn't bring it every day during the week."
Tight end Bryson Lloyd (left) goes down with safety Ryan McMahon closing in. Wearing black jerseys, both players play on the USC service teams to prepare the first-unit offense and defense for the upcoming opponent. [Photo by Po-He Tseng]
