USC football focuses on accountability, fine details during spring practice
With an influx of young players, USC coaches and veteran athletes are challenging the Trojans to do their best each day to create positive habits.
USC coach Lincoln Riley said the Trojans' coaches and upperclassmen are holding players accountable if they don't give their best effort during spring football. (Robert Gauthier/Los Angeles Times) Three weeks into spring practice, USC football coaches are making one thing clear: 95% of their best will not be accepted or tolerated. Wednesday’s practice started with some of the players doing up-downs after forgetting equipment.
“It was a good message from some of our staff and leaders in terms of the approach that we need to have every day that we come out here,” Trojans coach Lincoln Riley said. A sentiment that was shared by junior defensive tackle Jide Abasiri: “We just have to be better prepared. ” After the hiccup, Riley said the team responded well and it was back to business.
USC defensive tackle Jide Abasiri (97) is pushing himself to be a more vocal leader as a the Trojans help young players get acclimated to the program. (Gina Ferazzi/Los Angeles Times) After a spirited day on the field on Tuesday following a one-week spring break, Wednesday’s practice was scripted with the intent to cause stress and create discomfort — stacking multiple two-minute drills after a 6 a. m.
team meeting. The goal is to build a no-excuses program. “It's invaluable time, invaluable reps,” Riley said.