Football team continues battle against distractions
Amid rumors of locker room altercations and behind-the-scene tension, the Trojans took to practice on Tuesday to look toward this weekend’s trip to Utah. With clouds building overhead, the mood on the field was intense and focused. Head coach Clay Helton closed out practice with a heated speech, reminding his players that overcoming adversity and loss is just another part of playing football.
Brian Chin | Daily Trojan
Helton’s hot takes · First-year head coach Clay Helton continues to struggle with off-the-field distractions. On Tuesday, internet rumors of a locker room altercation quickly spread before being put to rest at practice.
This weekend’s matchup could provide relief for a USC team struggling to rebound from two early losses against Alabama and Stanford. Although Utah boasts a 3-0 record, those wins came against Southern Utah, San Jose State and an unranked BYU squad that has struggled early this season.
Between lineup changes and a homecoming for a new USC defensive starter, this weekend will be defining for the rest of the Trojans’ season.
E.J. Price did not punch Clay Helton
In a powerful example of the sway of internet rumors, Helton was forced to address questions on Tuesday about the sudden departure of true freshman offensive tackle E.J. Price. Helton confirmed that Price will be leaving the team and transferring from USC. But he waved off the rumor that Price took a swing at his head coach in the locker room earlier today.
“I got told today about him hitting me,” Helton said with a laugh. “I wouldn’t be here. I’d be dead.”
Instead, Price is leaving USC in the wake of personal family issues. Helton said that Price has been suffering from homesickness and living far from his family throughout this season. Both agreed that the best choice for the freshman is to find a college closer to his family.
“This is a really good kid,” Helton said. “He’s going to be a really good college football player. I wish him nothing but the absolute best. He’s been a member of my family.”
Helton stands behind quarterback change
A day after announcing the decision to start redshirt freshman Sam Darnold over redshirt junior Max Browne, Helton remained firm in his decision. Although he applauded Browne’s effort and attitude throughout the season, he feels that Darnold will give the offense the shot of adrenaline it needs to get back on track towards a winning record.
“He’s not the reason we’re 1-2,” Helton said. “The kid’s a great kid and he’s a competitor. But you have to make hard decisions. You have to do what you feel is best for the team.”
Helton cited Darnold’s arm strength and ability to anticipate plays as two of his main reasons for picking the freshman to start against Utah. Coming off the bench, Darnold has been effective in producing points and moving the ball efficiently. After practice, Helton said that he is not only very confident with Darnold, but also focused on praising Browne’s leadership and tact in handling the transition to the back-up position.
“I’m so proud of the guy,” Helton said. “His demeanor to his leadership to how he’s practicing, how he’s continuing to compete. That’s why he’s got the ‘C’ on his jersey. He’s shown true leadership in how he’s handled it.”