So how is JT Daniels doing? The Los Angeles Times interviewed his “performance coach” Scot Prohaska about Daniels’ inconsistent freshman season. “Because he came from that high of having so much influence on the program,” Prohaska said, “so much influence on the play-calling and the offensive scheme, and he had so much influence on the players and their development. To have that kind of omnipotency to … Continue reading If It’s Friday, It’s Time For A USC Notes Column

Iman Marshall (foot and ankle sprain) practiced today and will be a game-time decision. That means he is likely to play. Cornerback Greg Johnson (shoulder) will be available next week. Michael Pittman will have more tests on his shoulder next week. “Hopefully by next week he’ll be ready to roll,” Helton said. Helton on Utah losing tailback Zack Moss and quarterback Tyler Hundley: “That’s two really … Continue reading USC Injury Report

1.) Put in some new plays Cal coaches Justin Wilcox and Peter Sirmon know the USC offensive schemes backward and forward. Assuming the talent gap isn’t enough, USC needs some different plays to keep Cal’s defense off balance. 2.) Play smart Every week USC looks undisciplined and disorganized. This is why it can never put teams away. It’s an open secret at Heritage Hall but … Continue reading 10 Things USC Needs To Fix To Beat Cal

I often disagree with Clay Helton’s personnel decisions. I don’t know why Jalen Greene started last year over Tyler Vaughns, Max Browne over Sam Darnold, etc. But this week the coaches are complimenting cornerback Jonathan Lockett and Helton said last week was the senior’s best game of the season. But where has he been? Lockett started five games in 2016 and was hurt last season. … Continue reading USC Morning Buzz: Another Questionable Personnel Decision

USC wide receiver Randal Grimes, who always seems to be buried on the depth chart, will concentrate on academics and redshirt this year, according to Clay Helton. Grimes actually played a couple weeks ago and burned his redshirt last year with an ill-timed appearance against Notre Dame. Freshman tailback Markese Stepp might have to burn his redshirt to play in place of Stephen Carr, Helton … Continue reading Randal Grimes To Redshirt, But Markese Stepp May Not

USC assistant coach Johnny Nansen is one of 53 coaches who are finalists for the Broyles Award, which goes to college football’s top assistant. Nansen is well-liked and a friendly person so this is not about him. But why is anyone from USC a finalist? The staff’s reputation is finally becoming a well-known problem this season. Nansen coaches the inside linebackers and is USC’s recruiting … Continue reading USC Assistant Johnny Nansen Is Finalist For Broyles Award