Overview
- Thirty-two freshmen enrolled early, enabling an earlier start and a 15-practice slate that runs through April 4 with no formal spring game.
- New hires Gary Patterson and Mike Ekeler are installing the defense and special teams, and players noted markedly louder defensive communication on Day 1.
- USC will be without Tanook Hines, Kilian O’Connor, Christian Pierce, Justin Tauanuu, Chasen Johnson and Jontez Williams this spring as they recover from offseason procedures.
- With Hines sidelined and last season’s top receivers off to the NFL, freshmen Tron Baker, Kayden Dixon-Wyatt, Trent Mosley and Luc Weaver are set for expanded reps.
- Quarterback Jayden Maiava drew praise for growing on-field leadership during opening drills, and while the offensive line returns all starters, veterans Elijah Paige, Waymond Jordan and Jahkeem Stewart were limited or sat out the first practice.