As big as Trojan practices seem, it’s the smallest things that count
By Michael Sugarman
USCRipsIt
PeteCarroll.com
As the school year winds to a close for most USC students, the work has just begun for the Trojans.
Competition is the name of the game this spring; no position is guaranteed to any player. That's the way things go in Coach Pete Carroll's football program. Got to practice hard to play hard.
And in that, the smallest of details count. Whether it’s getting the right footwork on a pass-protection scheme for the offensive line or watching the ball into the hands for a receiver, the littlest things matter for the Trojans — especially in practice.
So take a tour of the detail-oriented focus during a recent USC practice:
With offensive coordinator Steve Sarkisian closely watching, tailback C.J. Gable makes a catch.
Tailback Joe McKnight keeps his eyes on the ball as he soars to make an athletic grab.
Wideout David Ausberry (center) eludes the pursuit of defensive backs Kevin Thomas (left) and Marshall Jones (right).
Tight end Rhett Ellison gets some meticulous instruction from coach Brennan Carroll.
Quarterback Mark Sanchez makes the audible clear for his teammates during a drill at the start of practice.
Mitch Mustain shouts an audible out loud, and tight end Anthony McCoy (86) turns to hear.
As defenders close in, Aaron Corp makes a throw over the defense.
Even with the pocket shrinking around him, Mark Sanchez keeps his focus downfield.
The defense swarms from one drill to another with a sense of urgency common at a Trojan practice.
Offensive coordinator Steve Sarkisian gives Mitch Mustain instruction during stretching.
Defensive coordinator Nick Holt shares a technique lesson with defensive end Gerald Washington.
Defensive linemen Andrew Weiss and DaJohn Harris push a ball as part of lineman drills that emphasize footwork.
With coach Pat Ruel (right) tutoring, the offensive linemen conduct a blocking drill that focuses on technique.
Coach Carroll instructs safety Taylor Mays during a break in action.
As taught, tailback C.J. Gable keeps the ball high and tight as the defense converges on him.
Offensive lineman Zack Heberer (white jersey) and defensive lineman Trey Henderson (cardinal jersey) go head-to-head in one-on-one drills, giving the players an opportunity to hone their skill they’ve learned in a competitive environment.
Offensive lineman Thomas Herring (left) and nose guard Christian Tupou (right) grapple during one-on-one drills.
Coach Pat Ruel takes a moment to teach Matt Meyer (left) and Zack Heberer (right) on body position and foot placement.
Cornerback Cary Harris (right) approaches fullback Stanley Havili in a team drill.
With defensive end Kyle Moore hot in pursuit, Mark Sanchez directs his attention downfield on a rollout pass.
All eyes are concentrated on Aaron Corp as he directs the Trojan offense.
Even in the seemingly chaotic parts of practice, Coach Carroll stands watch to make sure the details are stressed. Here, Carroll ensures the defense is going for the ball in the dogpile.
• Photos by Michael Sugarman, Copyright USCRipsIt 2008. You can contact Michael by sending an email to Ben@PeteCarroll.com and it will be forwarded to him.
