College Football

USC offensive line comes into focus at spring game

USC offensive line comes into focus at spring game

There was a lot to like about the USC spring game on Saturday, but everyone knew that with a small number of able-bodied offensive linemen available for this event, there were going to be some rough periods for this position group.

The first-team offensive line did well and started the game smoothly, paving the way for multiple touchdown drives from Caleb Williams in the 15-minute first half (essentially one quarter). However, in the second half, as the backups got more reps, the quality of play declined.

Ryan Kartje of the Los Angeles Times was taking notes:

The first-team offensive line acquitted itself well, giving up only one sack. But there are still legitimate concerns about the depth behind those players. USC’s second-team offensive line consisted (from left to right) of Mason Murphy, Gino Quinones, Andrew Milek, Max Gibbs and walk-on Joe Bryson, none of whom have played a snap.

Kartje noted that USC running backs averaged 3.4 yards per carry. Early in the game, Travis Dye gained seven or more yards on multiple carries. As the game progressed and Austin Jones got more reps, those seven-yard runs decreased in frequency.

Yes, a lot of this was related to the improvement of the defensive front seven, but it’s clear that USC ran into limitations along its offensive line. The Trojans need to know that if guys get hurt, other players are able to step in and provide serviceable performances.

The transfer portal beckons at this position group. You already knew that, but Saturday’s game fleshed out the need for portal help along the offensive line.

Click Here to Read the Full Original Article at Football | Trojans Wire…