It’s looking like Alex VanSumeren, the transfer from Michigan State, could start at defensive tackle for USC against San Jose State.

The interesting part of that is it means Jide Abasiri and Jahkeem Stewart (the five-star sophomore) are fighting to start at the other tackle spot. They were projected as starters in the offseason but VanSumeren has shaken things up.

• True freshman Mark Bowman, who is expected to start at tight end, missed a couple days but returned Wednesday.

• Noah Eagle, Todd Blackledge, and Kathryn Tappen will be the NBC broadcast team for USC’s season-opener vs. San Jose State.

• USC had its Freshmen Welcome Party last night and the Trojan mascot made a rare campus appearance.

• Also: Tommy Trojan looks glorious at night.