Take 3

Q: It appears to me that the majority of USC recruits during Carroll's tenure have been slotted for offense even though they might be known for defense. (IE- RoJo and CJ among others) I'm sure the tendency for most recruits is to want to be the savior and/or "touchdown maker" and therefore teams may have to allow recruits to try offense before settling them at defensive positions. What is your understanding of this and does this imply that talented offensive recruits are harder to come by? If we look at the sparse number of highly recruited NG's, DT's and DE's coming out of high school it might imply the opposite.

A: Some players will not come to a school unless they are allowed to play offense. Then if it doesn't work out once they get here they might switch to defense. USC needed some help at the wide receiver position last season, so it made sense to put Johnson there, especially since he was the fastest receiver.
Now next year, there could be some problems at cornerback if anyone gets injured. That's why T.J. Bryant was such a big signing. But one or two injuries and we might see some switches to the other side of the ball. The question is who is willing to put their ego aside and make that switch?

Q: Of the younger guys on the team (ie have been with USC for 2 years or less) who has impressed you the most with their work ethic and practice habits?
A: Christian Tupou came in as one of the more unheralded recruits and became noticed with his energy and dedication. He even said he did not mind burning his redshirt year for just a few games experience. He should be in the rotation for next season at nose tackle. Linebacker Malcolm Smith is another player who increased his stock as the season progressed because he worked hard, which is not surprising because his older brother, Steve, was known for his work ethic. Another hard-worker was tight end Rhett Ellison, who redshirted last season but will provide depth at the spot next season.

Q: think that DT is the "biggest" or "most important" position that is up for grabs. Solid DT play is a must for the defense to be effective. Who do you see stepping up to fill Ellis' spot? Spicer has been waiting his turn, but do you see any of the recruits playing a significant role? Thanks.

A: Spicer should start but Christian Tupou and DaJohn Harris should contend for playing time. Harris got to redshirt and a lot of schools that he had potential. Tupou forced his way into the competiton with his improvement during the year. Another intriguing choice is Armond Armstead. He's going to be behind the other guys in experience but the position is open, so he'll get a shot the first week of training camp like most freshmen. It's also possible Derek Simmons could get into the rotation.