USC Football Spring Practice: Day 1
IT'S SPRING BALL IN TROY.
There weren’t many fireworks - it’s the first practice of the year after all.
However, head coach Steve Sarkisian did confirm that TE Bryce Dixon is "dealing with a student conduct issue" and is sitting out practices.
Tuesday marked the first practice for early enrollees Trojans which include QB Ricky Town, WR Isaac Whitney and OL Chuma Edoga.
Sark didn't necessarily complement them, but explained that for this first practice, they just "got into the flow of things."
The coach also focused on implementing a finishing philosophy in practice: "We have to be at our best at the most critical moments of practice, and games."
On the topic of hype of expectations, both Kessler and Sark were dismissive.
"It's irrelevant," Kessler said. "These guys don't look at that. Not all of the were there for [2012]."
Departing WR Nelson Agholor and RB Buck Allen made appearances at Cromwell Field, chatting up their prospective replacements before they head to the NFL.
Five-star recruit Iman Marshall also showed up to show some love for his soon-to-be teammates. Marshall was seen talking to defensive coordinator Justin Wilcox on the field. Quick Hits:
- Sark emphasized the potential tandem of running backs Justin Davis and a healthy Tre Madden. No mention of James Toland.
- Kessler complemented Town and even said he "reminded me of myself."
- The Trojan QB also dismissed Heisman talk: "Individual awards don't matter to me. [Marcus Mariota] told me over the summer, 'I'd trade my Heisman for a national championship any day.'"
- Quote of the Day: “Trim the fat. Find a gnat.” No one knows what it means but it’s provocative.
- Jalen Greene missed a bunch of open wide receivers in drills all sorts of ways (overthrown, underthrown, off to the side). Bad first day could fuel the fire for a potential transfer.
- JuJu Smith dropped an easy slant TD pass on the first drive of drills.
- Max Browne dropped a beautiful ball over Leon McQuay and Kevon Seymour to Smith that got the crowd very excited.
Reported by Jeremy Bergman. Follow @Neon_Sports on Twitter.