News and notes from Thursday's closed practice ...
Taylor McNamara (shoulder) is probable for Saturday. He has been involved in light contact this week.
Clay Helton said Tyler Petite (foot) "made a huge stride today" and will be a game-time decision.
Tre Madden (knee) will likely be able to play but not carry his usual load.
Darreus Rogers (hamstring) didn't go full speed today, which appeared to be intentional. He was held back some so he could heal after being full-go Wednesday.
Helton said Steven Mitchell Jr. (ankle) told him he was 85 percent. His availability is questionable.
My best guess: McNamara, Rogers and Madden play, Petite and Mitchell sit out.
***
Connor Spears' role would increase if Petite is out. Helton intimated Cyrus Hobbi could play as well.
Helton was asked about Alex Wood and said he will continue to kick field goals.
Helton said USC's depth in the secondary and on the defensive line will be crucial vs. Cal, given its uptempo nature.
Helton said USC focused on scoring and defending in the red zone today.
Ykili Ross has been getting reps with the reserves rather than the service team the past few weeks. Helton reiterated that Ross is in line to redshirt, but that could change with more injuries to the secondary.
Hayes Pullard attended practice. That's the third day in a row that a former player has attended (Robert Woods, Keyshawn Johnson).
Taylor McNamara (shoulder) is probable for Saturday. He has been involved in light contact this week.
Clay Helton said Tyler Petite (foot) "made a huge stride today" and will be a game-time decision.
Tre Madden (knee) will likely be able to play but not carry his usual load.
Darreus Rogers (hamstring) didn't go full speed today, which appeared to be intentional. He was held back some so he could heal after being full-go Wednesday.
Helton said Steven Mitchell Jr. (ankle) told him he was 85 percent. His availability is questionable.
My best guess: McNamara, Rogers and Madden play, Petite and Mitchell sit out.
***
Connor Spears' role would increase if Petite is out. Helton intimated Cyrus Hobbi could play as well.
Helton was asked about Alex Wood and said he will continue to kick field goals.
Helton said USC's depth in the secondary and on the defensive line will be crucial vs. Cal, given its uptempo nature.
Helton said USC focused on scoring and defending in the red zone today.
Ykili Ross has been getting reps with the reserves rather than the service team the past few weeks. Helton reiterated that Ross is in line to redshirt, but that could change with more injuries to the secondary.
Hayes Pullard attended practice. That's the third day in a row that a former player has attended (Robert Woods, Keyshawn Johnson).
