Clay Helton astutely pointed out last month that USC is currently devoid of a star. His caveat was that there would be multiple by the end of the season. Some players got a head start in spring practice. Here were the best performers at each position.
Top players of spring:
QB: Jack Sears -- best QB in scrimmages; Week 1 starter?
TB: Aca’Cedric Ware -- brings his lunch pail and hard hat every day; No. 2 back?
WR: Tyler Vaughns -- only player to be top choice all five weeks; best player on offense?
TE: Josh Falo -- if Daniel Imatorbhebhe is unavailable, Falo brings comparable skills in bigger package; starter?
OL: Chuma Edoga -- fully engaged on a more regular basis; all-conference?
DL: Jay Tufele -- most improved defensive player since last fall; where do they put him?
LB: Porter Gustin -- took out frustration of lost season on USC offense in spring; star?
CB: Biggie Marshall -- practiced like a pro; career year?
S: Marvell Tell -- making more plays on the ball than ever before; captain?
Honorable mentions (gap between leader and runner-up wasn't substantial): QB Matt Fink, TB Vavae Malepeai, TE Erik Krommenhoek, OL Clayton Johnston, OL Brett Neilon, OL Austin Jackson, DL Christian Rector, DL Brandon Pili, LB Cam Smith, CB Ajene Harris, CB Jonathan Lockett, S Bubba Bolden, S Isaiah Pola-Mao, S Ykili Ross
Top newcomer of spring: (tie) OLB Kana’i Mauga, S Talanoa Hufanga -- flashed star potential; how much and how soon can they get on the field?
Honorable mentions: DL Caleb Tremblay, OL Justin Dedich