http://www.dailynews.com/usc/ci_4245142

Here’s the first depth chart of the season from USC. Note that the depth chart offers a traditional 4-3 formation with Brian Cushing a reserve LB, but Cushing is expected to start at defensive end as the Trojans use four linebackers.
Continue reading “Depth Chart” »

Stafon Johnson caught a TD pass and ran for another as the scout team gave the first team more than enough competition in the first half of a mock game. Linebacker Luthur Brown also was impressive.
C.J. Gable broke some nice runs for the first team, and Chris McFoy and Desmond Reed caught TD passes, among others.
Thomas Williams intercepted a pass for the second team defense.
Allen Bradford led the offense to a touchdown drive.
John David Booty threw an interception when Patrick Turner slipped. Alfred Rowe intercepted the pass.
The scrimmage went longer than expected, probably because the first team struggled in the first half, although it did dominate in the second half.
Brian Cushing (back spasms) did not play while Kaluka Maiava left after hurting his shoulder.
Michael Coleman missed practice because of a death in the family.

There will be a short version of a simulated game during Saturday’s practice but freshman tailback Emmanuel Moody will not play. Moody left Los Angeles on Friday afternoon to attend his uncle’s wedding.

Tailback Chauncey Washington did sprints Friday and said he would try to practice Saturday, but not participate in a full practice.

A major local newspaper is calling law enforcement officials about an incident involving a current player that happened about 18 months ago and was previously reported last year by the Daily News and eventually other publications.
“There’s nothing new,” a law enforcement official said.

What’s made C.J. Gable the No. 1 tailback heading into the season-opener?
“C.J. has shown the balane to play physical and play smart,” offensive coordinator Lane Kiffin said.

There continues to be a feeling around the program that freshman Emmanuel Moody possesses qualities most similar to Reggie Bush among the young tailbacks. Thats a tall order, obviously, but Moody does seem to have impressive initial burst.
To become an every down performer, however, Moody will need to work on his receiving abilities as he matures.

Freshman linebacker Josh Tatum’s just started doing some physical work, but remains bothered by a knee injury suffered during his senior year.
“He’s still a ways away,” USC coach Pete Carroll said.

An Oaks Christian source who correctly predicted safety Marshall Jones would commit to USC said the senior is now expressing doubts about his early commitment and wondering if he should consider other schools.