USC moved John Houston to middle linebacker yesterday. He has been inconsistent the past two seasons so moving him to a more complex position doesn’t seem to make sense. Palaie Gaoteote was supposed to be the middle linebacker but he replaced Houston on the weakside. That might make sense because he hasn’t played much and this will make his transition easier. Maybe if redshirt freshman … Continue reading A Curious Position Switch

USC cornerback Greg Johnson, who entered the NCAA transfer portal last week, told teammates he met with Clay Helton and is leaning toward returning to the team. Continue reading Greg Johnson Returning?

Like I always say, first practices are not a great barometer of much. One thing that was a little surprising Tuesday, though, was the tempo of USC’s first practice was pretty much the same as any other Clay Helton-led practice. One might assume practices will be faster than in the past to change USC’s soft culture. The pro-Helton crowd will counter that the head coach … Continue reading USC Morning Buzz: Clay Helton Envious?

You know what did not change for USC’s first spring practice? The number of players who did not participate: Dominic Davis, Olaijah Griffin, Chase McGrath, Bernard Schirmer, Caleb Tremblay, C.J. Pollard and Daniel Imatorbhebhe. Pollard and Imatorbhebhe were not even there and it wouldn’t surprise me if one transferred. Safeties Talanoa Hufanga and Isaiah Pola-Mao may also be limited to non-contact About half the plays … Continue reading One Thing Has Not Changed This Spring

USC’s first spring practice is over and it appears JT Daniels worked with the first team the most Tuesday. “I’m a big fan of (the new offense),” Daniels said. “I feel like it plays to the strengths I have.” The key will be Thursday to see if Clay Helton and Graham Harrell rotate who works with the first team. Continue reading Guess Who Got The Most First-Team Reps?

Don’t expect too much to be gained from this week’s spring practices. They are in shorts and usually you can’t tell too much. Former USC quarterback Mark Sanchez, who lives in South Orange County, is at practice today. Defensive end Hunter Echols made light of his situation before practice when he said, “I’m still here, baby.” Strength coach Aaron Ausmus is at practice in his … Continue reading USC Afternoon Notes