At Thursday's practice, the staff seemed to be getting back to basics for two reasons. 1) They always use bye weeks to get younger guys more practice time, and 2) this team is mired in unfamiliar losing territory, so basics seem to be in need. The team spent quite a bit of time on footwork and the techniques of hitting.

On the injury front, Damian Williams is no longer wearing a boot, but is still limping slightly and did not practice. Blake Ayles is still limping noticeably as he has a brace on his right knee. Allen Bradford did not practice with a mild foot sprain but he should be fine.

Coach Carroll grabbed a little time out on his own at one point to throw footballs at a trash can about 30 yards away. He went 0-4, but came close as he knocked the can over on his last try.

-- Mark Willard

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So I was back at practice for the first time since the Stanford loss...

I certainly noticed a different feel at the workout. NOT saying guys weren't working hard or trying to do everything perfectly, but you could just feel that weight that's on this team right now. They really need a big game against UCLA in a week and a half.

Most would disagree with me but I think this is a bad time for a bye. I'd like to see this team right back out there trying to win a game. We'll see how the team responds though.

After practice, Pete was asked whether he though this was a mentally tough team...He said this team needed to learn how to finish.

Jeremy Bates unequivocally stated that Matt Barkley IS the starting QB and gives the team the best chance to win. I concur.

All week I've been reminding Trojan fans that USC and UCLA could finish with the same record this year! That always draws a gasp from Trojan faithful. Shows you how important it is for USC to finish strong.

Take care, Dave Denholm

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It was the first day back to work after Saturday's loss to Stanford.

Pete said he was pleased with the work and he felt the guys were tuned in as they work through the process of fixing issues.

Jordan Cameron had a solid workout, as did receiver Travon Patterson, who also caught a handful of balls.

Pete Carroll said Damian Williams is expected to sit out of practice all week with the high ankle sprain.

Allen Bradford watched Tuesday's practice in street clothes due to a bone bruise in his foot, it is undetermined whether or not he will play against UCLA at this point.

-- Pete Fox

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At Thursday's practice, the best player on the field wasn't even a USC Trojan. NFL legend Jim Brown showed up right as practice began. Whispers amongst the players started immediately. Many were in awe. Allen Bradford and Joe McKnight ran over to introduce themselves. Brown was heard telling McKnight, "I've heard of you!" Pete Carroll also had a long chat with Brown before practice got going.

Once things got going, special teams was a focus. The coaching staff committed extra time and energy to getting kick coverages just the way they wanted them.

The offense worked efficiently, but still seemed to focus on short passing plays as opposed to getting the ball downfield. Fans hoping to see Matt Barkley open up the offense might be disappointed again this week. Also, WR Damian Williams was officially listed as out of the Stanford game. He didn't even dress for practice and continues to wear a boot on his right ankle. Brice Butler will step into the starting lineup.

Other injury notes... Blake Ayles injured both his knee and ankle in practice Wednesday. It was revealed Thursday that the injury is going to take some time to heal. He'll miss Saturday as well. The good news is that Anthony McCoy will return to action after missing two games. He practiced on a limited basis, but declared himself good to go. Fullback Stanley Havili will start as well.

One last note, a scout from the Baltimore Ravens was in attendance, and seemed to have a hard time taking his eyes off of Taylor Mays.

-- Mark Willard

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Saw some really spirited working out on the practice field for the Trojans Wednesday.

Michael Morgan is practicing with a cast on his wrist...We'll see if he can play with it. Devon Kennard has been working out at LB and would start there if Morgan is unable. Kennard will get time there regardless.

Malcolm Smith is not 100% but will be available.

TE Anthony McCoy did very little Wednesday but is progressing nicely. He might go this week.

Damien Williams is an end of the week decision.

Assistant Coach Jeremy Bates took his usual time out on Wednesday after practice to speak to the media. He took the blame for a lack of flow with the offense against ASU. He feels that Matt Barkley is playing very well, but they need to put him in better spots play-calling-wise.

Head Coach Pete Carroll says that when something is not working, the coaches don't look at the players, they look to check themselves first. Carroll said they have spent twice as much time working on 3rd down this week.

Take care, Dave Denholm

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