USC Football News: What We Discovered from USC's Preseason Camp, Position by Position

USC football is gearing up for its season opener against LSU in just two weeks. As the team shifts from preseason camp to game preparation, insights from recent practices reveal key developments across various positions.

At quarterback, Miller Moss is expected to take the lead. Although there are still two weeks until the first game, Moss has been the focus during training, showcasing his growth and familiarity with the system. 

UNLV transfer Jayden Maiava is also in the mix, but Moss's experience gives him the edge.

Quarterbacks coach Luke Huard was asked during the week when he expects USC will name a starting quarterback.

“That’s a decision completely up to the head football coach,” Huard said. “So we’re just trying to get better every single day. Each guy is trying to improve and when they get their opportunity, move the offense down the field.”

The running back situation looks solid at the top with Woody Marks as the starter, thanks to his four years at Mississippi State. 

Quenten Joyner is likely to be the most explosive option, while true freshman Bryan Jackson has emerged as a potential third back, bringing a physical style that the group needs.

The wide receiver corps is led by four sophomores (Zachariah Branch, Ja’Kobi Lane, Duce Robinson and Makai Lemon), but the coaching staff has added four transfer players to enhance depth. The competition for playing time is fierce, with several players looking to make an impact.

Jay Fair, who posted 324 yards at Auburn last year is one of those transfers that could make an impact.

“I wouldn’t say necessarily more of a role, it’s just kind of like whenever that opportunity presents itself just take advantage of it,” Fair said. “The way Lincoln Riley operates his offense, there will be a ton of roles and a ton of different opportunities for everybody. So it’s just a matter of whenever I get mine, to capitalize on it."

USC's tight end group is the strongest it has been in years, with Lake McRee returning from injury and Kade Eldridge stepping up in camp. Walker Lyons is also working his way back after a mission trip, and the depth at this position looks promising.

On the offensive line, four positions are nearly locked in, with the right guard spot being the main competition. The youth of the line raises questions about consistency, especially at right tackle, where Mason Murphy needs to prove himself.

Defensively, the line is a major concern as USC transitions to the Big Ten, which emphasizes strong play in the trenches. Bear Alexander is the standout talent, but he needs to improve his consistency. 

“He missed the majority of spring, so this camp is really, really important for him to get going in terms of what we were doing defensively,” Head Coach Lincoln Riley said. “It’s a very, very important camp for him. He’s shown that he’s got the ability to be an explosive player. 

"But he’s also been a player that his inconsistencies have hurt us — like any other player’s inconsistences are going to hurt you. Whether it’s effort all the time, being in the correct gap, playing blocks the way we want to play them, aligning correctly. I feel like all those little things where you step up from being a guy who flashes … to being a great player.”

Anthony Lucas and Jamil Muhammad are expected to start at defensive end, while the interior spots are still up for grabs.

At linebacker, Easton Mascarenas-Arnold is set to start, with Mason Cobb likely joining him. The secondary features Jaylin Smith, who has shown versatility, and Florida State transfer Greedy Vance Jr. is in contention for the nickel position.

Finally, the kicking game is leaning toward Georgia Southern transfer Michael Lantz, who had a strong season last year and is expected to secure the starting role.

As the Trojans prepare for their opener, the focus will be on solidifying these positions and building team chemistry ahead of a challenging season.